Stefan Wyszynski

Stefan Wyszyński was a Polish prelate of the Catholic Church who served as the Archbishop of Warsaw and Gniezno and the Primate of Poland from 1948 to 1981. He was also a cardinal of the Roman Church from 1953 until his death. He was a prominent figure in the history of Poland, especially during the Communist regime, when he defended the rights and freedom of the Church and the people. He was also a mentor and friend of Pope John Paul II, whom he encouraged to accept his papal election in 1978. He was known for his courage, piety, and wisdom, and was called the "Primate of the Millennium" for his role in preserving and promoting the Polish culture and heritage. He was also involved in many social and charitable works, such as founding the Christian Workers University and supporting the Solidarity movement. He died of cancer in 1981 and was declared venerable by Pope Francis in 2017. He was beatified in 2021 in Warsaw.