Commemoration of the Martyrs of Podlasie

The 30th anniversary of the beatification of the Martyrs of Podlasie, including Wincenty Lewoniuk and 12 companions, has been marked by religious ceremonies in Poland and recognition from the Vatican.

Pope Leo XIV honored the 19th-century Greek Catholic martyrs during a general audience, noting their refusal to renounce their faith when killed by Russian Imperial soldiers. This recognition preceded scheduled celebrations in the Siedlce Diocese.

On October 4, Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz presided over a jubilee Eucharist in Pratulin to commemorate the anniversary of the beatification originally performed by Pope John Paul II in 1996. During his homily, the Cardinal encouraged the faithful to defend their faith against modern challenges presented by media and social media.

Additional anniversary commemorations in Pratulin honored the Uniate martyrs who were killed on January 24, 1874, while defending their temple against forced conversion to Orthodoxy during Tsarist Russian persecution. The events included the XVI Diocesan Men’s Pilgrimage and the introduction of the martyrs’ relics.

In the Vatican, Bishop Kazimierz Gurda led a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, where pilgrims gathered to honor the group’s legacy of remaining united with the Pope despite historical persecutions.