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April 17

Max Josef Metzger, martyr (1887–1944)

Martyr

German priest and former military chaplain, Max Josef Metzger emerged from the First World War convinced that Christians should actively work for peace and unity.

Biography

He founded reconciliation movements, promoted ecumenism and opposed Nazi nationalism. During World War II he drafted a plan for a peaceful Germany and sought to bring it abroad; He was betrayed, condemned by the regime and executed in Berlin. He faced the trial and death with trust in God and without giving up his commitment to peace.

Practical advice

Take a step of reconciliation today between two people or groups, even if no one guarantees that your initiative will be accepted.

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