Father Casimir Wyszynski

Christian life. This task, particularly emphasized by the Marians’ Founder, was deeply imprinted in Father Casimir’s heart. During his stay in Rome he obtained special indulgences for praying for the dead, which indulgences could be obtained at the Marian churches. From the Eternal City he sent instructions on how to introduce special services for the deceased so that these devo- tions would benefit as much as possible both the living and the dead who suffered in purgatory. Many entries dedicated to this subject can be found in his Diary of Activities and other notes from the time of Father Casimir’s stay in Rome in 1751-1753. Also, The Life of Father Papczyński , which he composed and his efforts for the Founder’s beatification, show us an ardent venerator of Mary Immaculate and a great advocate of the souls in purgatory. The Holy sacraments, received consciously and with rever- ence, are one of the most efficient means to attain salvation. In that light, Father Casimir censured abuses discovered in some parishes on the occasion of Easter confession. In those times, due to the shortage of laborers, many parish priests demanded that men and women work on the pastor’s property before receiving the sacraments. Two times Father Casimir interceded in thismat- ter before Pope Benedict XIV, so that these improper practices would be eliminated. Venerable Casimir’s concern for proper pas- toral ministry had no room for “exploiting the faithful,” but sought only the benefit of the people. A fervent love of God, meditation on the Passion of the Savior, and following the example of Mary’s life, were Father Casimir’s guides to zealously serving his fellow man. He was able to skill- fully combine a personal spiritual life with great pastoral activity. Not everyone succeeds in this today. Howoften does it happen that outside activities dominatewhat ismost important—contact with God. Father Casimir’s example reminds us that all of our apostolic activities should have prayer and a relationship with God as their source. 90 Z YGMUNT P ROCZEK , MIC, P H D