Saint Albert Chmielowski

Biography

Saint Albert Chmielowski, also known as Adam Chmielowski, Adam Hilary Bernard Chmielowski, Brat Albert, Brother Albert, Brother of Our Lord, Brother of Our God, and Our God’s Brother, was born on August 20, 1845, in Igoalomia (Aigolonija), Poland. He was born into a wealthy aristocratic family and initially pursued studies in agriculture to manage the family estate. However, his life took a turn when he became involved in politics at a young age and lost his leg at the age of 17 while fighting in an insurrection. While in Krakow, Saint Albert became a popular and well-liked artist, known for his artistic talents. Being involved in politics and art made him keenly aware of the human misery and suffering around him, deeply affecting his compassionate soul. Through years of reflection and spiritual discernment, he came to understand that God was calling him to serve those in need. Inspired by his newfound calling, he joined the Franciscan Third Order and adopted the name Albert. Saint Albert gave up his career as an artist and dedicated his life to working with and for the poorest of Krakow. In 1887, he founded the Brothers of the Third Order of Saint Francis, Servants of the Poor, commonly known as the Albertines or the Gray Brothers, named after their rough gray habits. He also established the women’s congregation of the Order, known as the Gray Sisters, in 1891. The Albertines organized the provision of food and shelter for the poor and homeless, emphasizing the importance of actively seeing and relieving the suffering of others. Saint Albert preached that the great calamity of their time was the refusal of many to acknowledge and alleviate the suffering of their less fortunate brothers and sisters. He criticized the tendency of the privileged "haves" to live apart from the "have-nots," deliberately ignoring their needs and leaving the responsibility of their care to others. Saint Albert's life and teachings inspired many to take action and be more compassionate towards those in need. Pope John Paul II, who later became a close collaborator of Saint Albert, wrote a well-received play about his life. This play was later filmed in 1997 as "Brother of Our God." Saint Albert also served as a spiritual teacher to Blessed Maria Bernardina Jablonska, further spreading his message of love and service. Saint Albert Chmielowski passed away on December 25, 1916, in Krakow, Poland, from natural causes. He was venerated on January 20, 1977, by Pope Paul VI, beatified on June 22, 1983, by Pope John Paul II in Krakow, and canonized on November 12, 1989, by Pope John Paul II in Saint Peter's Square, Rome. He is recognized as the patron saint of the Albertine Brothers and Albertine Sisters, who continue his work of serving the poor and marginalized in society. Saint Albert's feast days are celebrated on June 17 (usually celebrated on this date as his natal feast falls on Christmas) and December 25.