Saint Maximilian Kolbe
S. Maximilianus Maria Kolbe
0814 Martyr Memorial
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Maximilian Mary Kolbe was born in Poland in 1894. He entered the Order of Friars Minor Conventual and was ordained a priest in Rome in 1918. His ardent love for Mary the Virgin Mother of God inspired him to found a sodality which he called the Militia of Mary Immaculate. This he promoted in his native land and in other countries as well. His missionary activity in Japan was also placed under the patronage of the Immaculate Virgin. On returning to Poland he endured many trials as he worked in the area of Oswiecim in the district of Cracow during World War II. He brought his life of activity to a close by offering himself as a victim of love at Auschwitz. He died on 14th August 1941 and was canonised by Pope John Paul lI on 12th October 1982.