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Welcoming Relics of Blessed Michał Tomaszek & Zbigniew Strzałkowski

Reception of the First Class Relics of the Franciscan Martyrs of Pariacoto, Peru

On the evening of August 9, 1991, in the small mountain village of Pariacoto, Peru, two Conventual Franciscan friars, Fr. Michał Tomaszek and Fr. Zbigniew Strzałkowski, were taken from their friary by members of the terrorist group Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path). After celebrating Holy Mass, the Polish friars courageously protected the three Postulants and three Religious Sisters who were present, speaking calmly with their captors. However, the terrorists forced the friars into their own vehicles and also abducted the village mayor. Accusing the friars of wielding power over the people—despite their mission of serving the poorest of the poor—the terrorists refused to listen to their explanations. The next day, the bodies of Fr. Michał and Fr. Zbigniew were found, each having been executed with a gunshot to the back of the head. A blood-stained sign bearing Communist symbols and the chilling phrase, “This is the way the lackeys of imperialism die,” was left beside them.
 
On December 5, 2015, the Church officially recognized their sacrifice by proclaiming them Blesseds. Their story continues to inspire the faithful, especially as Christians around the world still suffer persecution. These two friars gave their lives as a testimony to Christ’s love, reminding us of His ultimate sacrifice on the Cross. (You can learn more about their lives and martyrdom here.)
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3-14-25_Polish Martyrs Relics (10)
3-14-25_Polish Martyrs Relics (2)
Bls. Michal & Zbigniew Colorized
3-14-25_Polish Martyrs Relics (7)
Bls. Michal & Zbigniew painting
3-14-25_Polish Martyrs Relics (11)
3-14-25_Polish Martyrs Relics (4)
In honor of their witness and to encourage vocations to the Franciscan Order, the Province of St. Bonaventure, USA, petitioned for First Class Relics of the martyrs. With the blessing of the Minister Provincial, the relics—fragments of their blood-stained garments—were presented on March 14, 2025, by Br. Jan Hruszowiec, the Postulator for their cause, along with Fr. Dawid Furgał as his translator. The sacred relics were received at the Friary of St. Bonaventure in Chicago by Br. Bernard Mary Fonkalsrud, Vocations Director for the province. (Watch a video of this special occasion here.)
May Blesseds Michał and Zbigniew intercede for us, strengthening our faith, inspiring new vocations, and encouraging us to preach the truth with love and courage.
 

Franciscans of Saint Bonaventure Province

Friars Minor Conventual

6107 North Kenmore Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60660

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Safeguarding Statement

The Franciscan Friars Conventual of St. Bonaventure Province are committed to creating safe environments for children and vulnerable adults.

Every friar in active ministry must complete training in Virtus (the National Catholic Risk Retention Group) and any other safe environment compliances required by the dioceses in which they serve.

In addition, St. Bonaventure Province has its own Safe Environment Commission that oversees the implementation and monitoring of the Province’s Policies, Procedures, and Protocols for Ethical Ministry with Minors and Vulnerable Adults. 

Any allegation regarding the Franciscan Friars Conventual of this Province receives an immediate response. This includes the Province’s full cooperation with local law enforcement authorities and Ordinaries who have ecclesial jurisdiction over these matters, as well as a duly diligent investigation by a qualified third party in order to substantiate credibility.