St. Albert Chmielowski

St. Albert Chmielowski was a Polish painter turned religious brother who founded the Albertine Brothers and Sisters. Renouncing his artistic career, he dedicated his life to serving the poor and homeless of Kraków, becoming a model of charity and mercy.

St. Albert Chmielowski was born Adam Chmielowski on August 20, 1845, in Igołomia, near Kraków, in Poland, then under Russian rule. He was born into a noble family but orphaned early in life, losing both parents while still a teenager. Despite this, he grew into a talented and sensitive young man, displaying exceptional artistic ability and patriotic spirit.

As a young adult, he joined the January Uprising in 1863 against Russian oppression. During the fighting, he suffered a grievous injury, leading to the amputation of his leg. His time in exile and recovery marked the beginning of deep personal transformation. After his return to Poland, he pursued his passion for painting, studying art in Paris and Munich. His religious beliefs and inner spiritual longing, however, began to conflict with his artistic life.

By his early 40s, Adam felt increasingly drawn to the Gospel message of service to the poor. He began to visit homeless shelters and hospitals, providing comfort to the destitute. Eventually, he made the radical decision to give up his art career and wealth, donning a grey habit and taking the name Brother Albert. In 1888, he founded the Brothers of the Third Order of St. Francis, Servants of the Poor (commonly known as the Albertine Brothers), a congregation committed to living among and caring for the homeless and abandoned.

His motto was simple but profound: "Be as good as bread," meaning to be something that others can take nourishment from. His life was marked by humility, deep prayer, and tireless service. He often lived in extreme poverty alongside those he helped, embodying Christ’s message in the Gospels.

Brother Albert also inspired the foundation of the Albertine Sisters, a parallel congregation for women. His efforts were not always understood or supported during his lifetime, but his sanctity was recognized by those around him.

He died on December 25, 1916, after suffering from stomach cancer. His spiritual legacy, though, flourished. The man who could have lived comfortably as an acclaimed artist instead chose to live and die in poverty, all for love of Christ in the poor.

He was beatified in 1983 and canonized by Pope John Paul II—his fellow Pole—on November 12, 1989. St. Albert remains a powerful example of Christian charity, humility, and action. His life inspired Pope John Paul II during his own youth and priesthood, as he frequently cited Albert’s life as an example of living faith.

Feast Day

17-6-

Birth Date

20-8-1845

Died Date

25-12-1916

Canonised Date

12-11-1989

Church of the Capuchins, Kraków, Poland

Saint Albert Chmielowski, humble servant of the poor and the suffering, intercede for us, that we may live with compassion, kindness, and a heart full of charity. Guide us to serve those in need with the same love and dedication you showed during your life. Help us to follow Christ's example in all we do, embracing humility, faith, and generosity. Through your prayers, may we grow in holiness and love for all God's children. Amen.
ST. ALBERT CHMIELOWSKI

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ST. ALBERT CHMIELOWSKI

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