Franz Jägerstätter, martyr (1907–1943)

Biography

Austrian peasant, husband and father, Franz Jägerstätter was martyred for conscientiously refusing to collaborate with the Nazi regime's war. After his marriage to Franziska he delved into prayer, the daily Eucharist, and works of mercy, while working to support his wife and three daughters. He was the only resident of his town who voted against the annexation of Austria to Germany. Called back to the army, he refused to take the oath to Hitler, even knowing that he would be condemned. He died beheaded in 1943, faithful to God and with a peaceful heart.