In a historic event, the Vatican has officially recognized a Polish family of nine as blessed martyrs, abc has reported.
This family, including parents and their young children, was executed by the Nazis during World War II for sheltering Jews. During a special Mass in Poland, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, representing the Vatican, read the official declaration of beatification for the Ulma family, signed by Pope Francis.
In his speech, Semeraro emphasized the family's act of 'hospitality, care, and mercy' and their ultimate sacrifice as martyrs during a dark period of history. A modern painting depicting the Ulma family was unveiled near the altar, and relics from their graves were presented. This marks the first time an entire family has been beatified.
Pope Francis, speaking from the Vatican, praised the Ulmas as a 'beacon of light in the darkness' and an inspiration for everyone to 'do good and serve the needy.' The Ulmas were killed by the Nazis and local collaborators for hiding Jews in their home. This courageous family includes a farmer, his pregnant wife, and their young children.
Their beatification ceremony holds theological significance as it recognizes an unborn child as a martyr, even though the child was not baptized. This has implications for the Church's stance on abortion.
Poland's President, along with other political leaders and thousands of pilgrims, attended the event, highlighting its political importance ahead of parliamentary elections. After beatification, the Ulma family would need one more miracle attributed to their intercession for canonization as saints, following the church's process.
Israel's Yad Vashem Institute previously recognized the Ulmas as Righteous Among Nations for their heroic efforts to save Jews during the Holocaust.
In Poland, they symbolize the bravery of Poles who risked their lives to assist Jews during Nazi occupation. A museum dedicated to such heroes was opened in their honor in 2016.
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