Maximilian Kolbe

Maximilian Kolbe

Saint Maximilian Kolbe was born in 1894 in Poland. When he was born, he was named Raymond but this name was changed to Maximilian when he became a Franciscan Priest. The name Maximilian was from a Roman citizen from the 3rd century. This Roman citizen was martyred because he did not serve the Roman Legion.

During his school days, Saint Maximilian formed a group named Militia. This was a group of young men and women who dedicated their whole lives to Mother Mary and who helped people to be inspired by God by turning their lives back to him. They also encouraged people to pray and to trust in Mother Mary.

During World War 2, Maximilian Kolbe cared for the Jewish refugees. When Germany invaded Poland on September 1939, Maximilian and those with him were sent to a German work camp because they were hiding Jewish refugees from the Germans. Over several months, Maximilian cared for thousand and criticised the Germans in his magazine. As soon as the Gestapo's saw it, Maximilian was arrested and was taken to prison. He was interrogated and beaten in prison. Maximilian was heard singing hymns to Mary. In prison they were not treated fairly. Maximilian still had hope in himself and God.

The Germans killed him because all they heard were prayers and hymns. The guards realised that Maximilian Kolbe was no ordinary prisoner. All who knew his act of love were inspired.

                         BY: MELE KAUTAI