In his message for Polish Army Day, Archbishop Józef Guzdek, apostolic administrator of the Field Ordinariate, called on the faithful to recalled the sacrifice of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.
“Let us remember the soldiers who died in the fight for the freedom of our Homeland, let us pay tribute to them and embrace them with a prayer of gratitude, asking God that they would receive eternal life for sacrificing their temporal life,” wrote the archbishop in his message for the day that will be observed August 15, 2021.
We publish below the full text of the message:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Officers, NCOs, Soldiers, and Employees of the Polish Army.
Another anniversary of the victorious Battle of Warsaw is an opportunity to express gratitude for your service and work. Moreover, it encourages in-depth reflection on the role and significance of the Polish Army in the history of our nation.
Let us remember the Soldiers who died in the fight for the freedom of our Homeland, let us pay tribute to them and surround them with a prayer of gratitude, asking God that they would receive eternal life for sacrificing their mortal life.
Reflection on the past should strengthen our attitude of responsibility for the present and future of our homeland. Every soldier, military employee, every person responsible for the area of country security entrusted to them should answer in their own conscience whether they properly fulfill their tasks and duties.
I express my gratitude to all those who, through their daily service and diligent work, bear witness to their love of the Motherland, care for its development and security.
I encourage you – remembering the words of Christ: “Everything you did for one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you did for me” (Mt 25:40) – that your daily service to the Fatherland and commitment to maintaining peace in the world be based on the foundation of the Gospel law love of God and neighbor.
On these special days of the celebration of the Polish Army Day, I surround you with my memory and prayer.
With kind regards and pastoral blessing
Archbishop Józef Guzdek
Apostolic Administrator of the Field Ordinariate
Warsaw, August 9, 2021
