Cardinal Adam Stefan Sapieha as an apostle of mercy in Poland

Abstract

Adam Stefan Sapieha lived from 1867 to 1951. The 100th anniversary of his episcopal ordination creates an opportunity to present his religious and social activity. His great work was based on the ability to mobilize people who were spiritually prepared to help others. Sapieha came from a princely family and was the youngest of six children. After finishing high school he studied law in Vienna. In 1890 he joined the theological faculty in Innsbruck. At the same time he was an alumnus of the seminary in Lviv. He was ordained priest in 1893. After 18 years he was ordained bishop and took pastoral diocese of Cracow. Thanks to his care Cracow became a city of mercy. Cardinal Sapieha cared for priests and their parishioners. The concern for the poorest people filled his daily life. He established parish committees and strived to alleviate the plight of workers. Moreover, he encouraged believers to unite in Catholic organizations. He set up charities to help people affected by natural disasters, war and unemployment. After World War II cardinal Sapieha became the head of the National Headquarters of Caritas. Until the end of his life he was involved in charity work, which made other people follow his example.