Beata Marianna Biernacka

Blessed Marianna Biernacka, also known as Marianna Czokala, was born in Lipsk, Podlaskie, Poland in 1888. She grew up in the Orthodox Church but later converted to Catholicism at the age of 17. Following her conversion, Marianna married Ludwik Biernacki, a farmer, when she was 20 years old.

Throughout her life, Marianna faced various challenges, including limited education. While she could read a little, she was unable to write. Despite these limitations, she exemplified deep faith and personal piety, becoming a devout Catholic laywoman. Marianna and Ludwik had six children together, but sadly, only two of them, Leokadia and Stanislaw, survived infancy.

Tragedy struck Marianna's family during World War II when the Nazis and Soviets divided Poland. Her town came under German occupation, and local resistance groups emerged to fight back against the occupying forces. In response, the Nazis carried out reprisal executions, randomly selecting and killing citizens as a warning to the resistance.

On June 1, 1943, the Nazis arrested Marianna's son Stanislaw and his pregnant wife, Anna, intending to include them in the group to be executed. In a heart-wrenching act of selflessness, Marianna pleaded with the Nazis, offering to take Anna's place. The Nazis agreed, and Marianna's request to bring a rosary with her was granted. Sadly, Marianna and her son were imprisoned briefly before being executed by firing squad.

Marianna Biernacka's self-sacrifice and unwavering faith earned her the title of martyr. She was shot on June 13, 1943, in Naumovichi (also known as Naumowicze) in Hrodzyenskaya voblasts', Belarus. Her feast day is commemorated on June 13. Additionally, she is honored as one of the 108 Martyrs of World War II, recognized for her bravery and fidelity in the face of persecution.

Recognizing her extraordinary virtues, Pope John Paul II venerated Marianna Biernacka on March 26, 1999, through a decree of martyrdom. Furthermore, she was beatified by Pope John Paul II on June 13, 1999. The life of Blessed Marianna Biernacka serves as an inspiration, reminding believers of the power of faith and sacrifice even in the darkest of times.