Fr. Łukasz Bankowski – Vatican City
Close to everyday worries
Archbishop Szczepan Wesoły remains an important figure in the memory of the Roman Polonia. As emphasized by Fr. Marek Kordecki, prefect of the sanctuary and pastor of the Polish community operating there, his ministry meant above all closeness to the people.
“He knew their everyday worries, accompanied them, and surrounded them with pastoral care. To this day, he is remembered with great warmth and gratitude,” the Redemptorist points out.
This memory is evoked by the exhibition “Abp Szczepan Wesoły. Silesian, soldier, emigrant, clergyman, guardian of the Polish emigration,” prepared by the Institute of National Remembrance based on the archival resources of the Church and the Hospice of St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr in Rome.
In a place of prayer for Poles
The next venue for the presentation of the exhibition is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at the Church of St. Alphonsus on Via Merulana. For years, Poles living in the Eternal City and pilgrims from Poland have gathered there.
“We are glad that our sanctuary was chosen as the venue for this exhibition,” says Fr. Kordecki. He recalls that the faithful come here to pray before the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and entrust their intentions to Her.
An invitation for the Polish diaspora and pilgrims
The pastor encourages combining a visit to the sanctuary with learning about the archbishop’s history.
“This is not only an opportunity to recall the life and work of Archbishop Szczepan Wesoły, but also to express gratitude for his ministry among Poles scattered all over the world,” he emphasizes.
At the sanctuary, the exhibition will be available from November 3 to November 14. Afterwards, from November 14 to November 23, it can be viewed at the Polish House on Via Cassia in Rome.
