July 17
Paul Peter Gojdič, bishop and martyr (1888–1960)
martyr bishop
Slovak Greek Catholic bishop, Pablo Pedro Gojdič defended human dignity and communion with Rome against totalitarian regimes.
Biography
Basilian monk and pastor of Prešov, he was concerned about the poor, orphans and the formation of the faithful; During the Nazi persecution he also helped save Jews. When the communist regime suppressed his Church, he refused to separate it from the Pope and was sentenced to life imprisonment. He endured interrogations, transfers and forced labor until he died in prison on his birthday.
Practical advice
Pray today for a persecuted bishop and remain loyal to a responsibility even if you are pressured to abandon it.
Example of
FortitudeFaithfulnessSacrifice