A depiction of the Ulma family is showcased during a solemn religious service, commemorating the beatification of Jozef and Wiktoria Ulma along with their seven children. This Polish family was tragically murdered in 1944 by Nazi forces for their courageous act of sheltering Jews. The service took place in Poland, capturing the attention of a diverse audience. Photo by Darek Delmanowicz/EPA-EFE
Sept. 10 (UPI) — Pope Francis made a profound announcement on Sunday, officially beatifying the entire Ulma family, a heroic Polish family that sacrificed their lives during the Holocaust to save Jews from the Nazis. The beatification ceremony, held in Markowa, marked a historic event as it was the first time an entire family received this honor. Pope Francis conveyed this significant news during his televised speech following the delivery of the Angelus prayer from the Vatican Apostolic Palace.
Leading the mass was Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, serving as Pope Francis’ representative. Throughout his speech, Pope Francis referred to the Ulma family as “martyrs” who fell victim to the Nazis on March 24, 1944. He admired their brave resistance against the hatred and violence of that era, highlighting their embodiment of evangelical love. Pope Francis expressed his desire for the Ulma family to serve as an inspiration for all, encouraging the emulation of their outstanding dedication to goodness and service to those in need. Applauding their noble sacrifice, he declared, “A round of applause for this family of Blesseds!”
Pope Francis took the opportunity to address the global audience, urging an end to war and offering prayers for troubled regions, including Ukraine and Morocco, which recently experienced a devastating earthquake resulting in the loss of many lives.
The beatification ceremony garnered immense attention, attracting numerous dignitaries and spectators. Among the attendees was Poland’s President Andrzej Duda, who expressed gratitude for shedding light on the historical truth and the plight of Poles during the German occupation. Undeterred by the threat of death, the Ulma family’s selfless act of harboring Jews exemplified their unwavering commitment to evangelical love for their neighbors. The Institute of National Remembrance of Poland recognized the Ulmas as a hardworking and passionate couple. Despite the scarcity of resources, they fearlessly demonstrated that compassion and willingness to risk one’s life for others could triumph over terror and fear.
Józef Ulma, in addition to his heroism during the Holocaust, played a crucial role in the community as an activist and amateur photographer. His photographs captured the essence of life amidst the turmoil of the 1930s and 1940s.
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