Cardinal K. Wojtyła’s efforts to recognize the cult of Queen Jadwiga “from time immemorial” (1967–1974)

Abstract

The beatification process for Queen Jadwiga of Anjou (1374–1399) was concluded in 1950 with the transfer of the relevant documents to the Vatican’s Congregation of Rites. The process was pursued via the ordinary path of “super fama virtutum et miraculorum.” The Congregation’s historical commission determined that this method required extensive documentation, which is challenging to provide for historical figures from such a remote era. Although attempts were made to supplement the existing documentation, these efforts proved unsuccessful.
In response, the Vatican proposed shifting to the alternative approach of demonstrating cult “from time immemorial.” This proposal was endorsed by Cardinal Karol Wojtyła in 1967. He appointed Rev. Dr. Czesław Skowron from the Archdiocesan Archives of Kraków to conduct archival research across Europe. Additionally, he directed the Pastoral Department of the Archdiocese of Kraków to survey all Polish dioceses regarding the veneration of Queen Jadwiga through church imagery.
Rev. Skowron’s research uncovered numerous previously unknown documents, while the surveys identified approximately 150 depictions of Queen Jadwiga in churches, with about half featuring a halo. The survey results were analyzed by Dr. Małgorzata Matusek. In early 1974, Cardinal Wojtyła publicly stated, based on this comprehensive material, that Queen Jadwiga had been venerated as a saint throughout every century. This declaration was a crucial milestone in advancing the beatification process for Queen Jadwiga, made possible by Cardinal Wojtyła’s determination.