Blessed Karolina Kózka: Virgin Martyr of Poland

BL. KAROLINA KOZKA

Blessed Karolina Kózka was a Polish teenager who became a martyr for her chastity. Born in 1898 in Wał-Ruda, she was known for her deep faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary. In 1914, during World War I, a Russian soldier attempted to assault her. She resisted valiantly, maintaining her purity even in the face of death. She was fatally wounded and died shortly after. Her beatification was proclaimed by Pope John Paul II in 1987.

Karolina Kózka was born on August 2, 1898, in Wał-Ruda, a village in the Diocese of Tarnów, Poland. She was the fourth of eleven children in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, Karolina exhibited a deep love for God and a strong commitment to prayer. She often gathered neighbors and relatives, especially children, under a pear tree near her home to read the Scriptures and discuss the lives of saints. Her home was known for its piety, with the family regularly participating in common prayers, attending Mass, and engaging in religious activities.In 1914, during World War I, Russian troops began occupying Polish towns and cities under Austrian rule. On November 18, 1914, a Russian soldier attempted to assault Karolina. She resisted bravely, maintaining her chastity even at the cost of her life. The soldier fatally wounded her with a bayonet, and she died shortly after. Her death stirred strong emotions among the local population, and her funeral was attended by around 3,000 people.The cause for her beatification was introduced in 1965. On June 30, 1986, Pope John Paul II confirmed that Karolina was killed "in defensum castitatis" – in defense of chastity. She was beatified on June 10, 1987, in Tarnów, Poland. Her remains were later moved to the main altar of the Zabawa parish church on March 18, 1987, where they are venerated by pilgrims.Blessed Karolina Kózka is often referred to as the "Polish Maria Goretti" due to the similarity in their stories. She is considered a patroness of youth and purity, and her feast day is celebrated on November 18. Her life continues to inspire many, symbolizing courage, faith, and the sanctity of life.

Feast Day

18-11-1987

Birth Date

2-8-1898

Died Date

18-11-1914

Canonised Date

10-6-1987

Initially at the parochial cemetery in Wał-Ruda; later reburied beneath the main altar of the Zabawa parish church on 18 March 1987

O Blessed Karolina, Virgin and Martyr, you defended your purity with your life. Intercede for us that we may remain steadfast in faith and purity. Amen.
BL. KAROLINA KOZKA

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BL. KAROLINA KOZKA

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