March 20
Joseph Bilczewski (1860–1923)
Bishop
Practical advice
In a conflict between groups, take an action today that fairly benefits both and avoid fueling generalizations against any of them.
Biography
Polish theologian and professor, José Bilczewski was appointed archbishop of Lviv, a complex diocese due to its ethnic, social and religious differences. He promoted the training of the clergy, catechesis, schools and churches, and wrote numerous pastoral letters to bring doctrine closer to the life of the people. During the First World War and subsequent conflicts he defended the persecuted, helped the hungry and interceded for prisoners without distinguishing nationality or rite. He worked for reconciliation and unity, convinced that the pastor must sacrifice himself for the entire Church entrusted to his care.