Częstochowa marks 70th anniversary of Jasna Góra Vows

On the 70th anniversary of the Jasnogórskie Śluby Narodu (Jasna Góra Vows of the Nation), religious ceremonies were held at the Jasna Góra sanctuary in Częstochowa. The historic vows, authored by Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński during his imprisonment by communist authorities in 1956, were renewed by clergy and pilgrims. Archbishop Wojciech Polak, the Primate of Poland, led the celebrations, describing the vows as a “Polish Charter of Human Rights” that emphasizes the sanctity of life, marriage, and family.

During the events, Archbishop Polak also issued an appeal for reconciliation between Poles and Ukrainians, condemning hostility stemming from historical grievances. He noted that the values within the vows should inspire justice and brotherhood.

In the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful during a general audience, offering spiritual support to those gathered in Częstochowa. The Pope highlighted the moral renewal program contained in the vows and discussed the importance of active participation in the liturgy, referencing the reforms of the Second Vatican Council to ensure believers are not merely “silent spectators.”