Pope Leo XIV led a commemoration in the Sistine Chapel honoring Blessed Cardinal Iuliu Hossu. Cardinal Hossu, a Romanian Greek Catholic bishop, was recognized for his bravery and compassion. He is celebrated for saving thousands of Jewish people during World War II. The ceremony was attended by Romanian bishops and Jewish representatives, highlighting interfaith solidarity. The event also marked the anniversary of Pope Francis' visit to Romania and the beatification of seven martyred Greek Catholic Bishops.
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Iuliu Hossu was a Romanian Greek-Catholic bishop and cardinal in pectore, born in Milas on January 30, 1885 1 3. He pursued theological studies in Rome, earning doctorates in philosophy and theology 1 3. Hossu was appointed bishop of the Greek Catholic Eparchy of Gerla in Transylvania in 1917, later renamed Cluj-Gherla 1.
Pope Leo XIV commemorated Cardinal Iuliu Hossu in a ceremony in the Sistine Chapel, honoring his life and legacy 1 3 4. The Pope highlighted Hossu as an "apostle of hope" and a symbol of fraternity 1 3. The ceremony coincided with the Jubilee Year dedicated to hope and the 5th anniversary of Pope Francis' visit to Romania, where Hossu was beatified 3 5. Pope Leo emphasized the timeliness of Hossu's message of courage, generosity, and supreme sacrifice 1.
During World War II, between 1940 and 1944, Cardinal Hossu played a crucial role in saving thousands of Jews in Northern Transylvania from Nazi extermination 1 3 4. He mobilized the Greek Catholic clergy and faithful, urging them to help Jews with both thoughts and actions 1 4. Hossu’s efforts are currently under consideration for recognition as "Righteous Among the Nations" by Yad Vashem 1 3. His interventions were confirmed to have saved thousands of Jewish lives 5.
In 1948, Cardinal Hossu was arrested by the communist government for refusing to join the Orthodox Church after the Greek Catholic Church was outlawed 1 4. He was imprisoned and deprived of his freedom until his death on May 28, 1970 1. While imprisoned in 1969, Saint Paul VI secretly named him a cardinal in pectore 1 4 5. His last words were, "My battle is over; yours continues" 1.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized that Cardinal Hossu's message remains relevant, particularly his actions to protect others despite risks 1 4. Silviu Vexler, president of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania, acknowledged Hossu's courage and dignity in the face of evil 4. Pope Leo XIV connected Hossu's example to the teachings of Nostra Aetate, highlighting interfaith relations and denouncing violence against vulnerable populations 4 5. The Pope called for all to say "no" to violence, especially against defenseless individuals like children and families 1 3 4 5.
The Church addresses persecution, interfaith relations, and salvation.
The Catholic Church addresses persecution, interfaith relations, and salvation, offering guidance rooted in Scripture and Tradition.
The Church acknowledges that persecution is a reality faced by Christians, both historically and in the present day . This persecution can range from overt violence and martyrdom to more subtle forms of marginalization, discrimination, and slander . Jesus himself warned his followers that they would be persecuted, just as he was .
The Catholic Church promotes dialogue and collaboration with people of other religions . This dialogue is rooted in the understanding that all people share a common origin and end in God .
The Church affirms that salvation comes through Jesus Christ .
In summary, the Catholic Church teaches that while persecution is a reality for Christians, they are called to respond with courage and hope. The Church also actively promotes interfaith dialogue, seeking common ground and mutual understanding with people of other religions, while remaining steadfast in its belief that salvation is found through Jesus Christ.