The Marian Martyrs of Rosica

135 Memoir Christmas. I especially remember the darling children! Even though there was cruel war all around and danger was threat- ening, everybody was joyous during those holy days. Our hearts were filled with hope, even though it was just for a brief moment. We even had guests for the holidays. Father Laszewski came, and Fr. Leszczewicz visited. Their news was not happy. The work was more and more difficult. Partisans were over- running the area, and the Germans were furious. They suspect- ed the priests of collaboration with the partisans. Indeed, Father had already met the partisans. They came when he was in Zaszczyryn to spend some time with the man of God. “Well, what do you think,” the question was asked. ”Are we doing the right thing by being partisans, by fighting the Germans?” His answer was: “Everybody has the obligation to defend the Motherland. You are fighting for your country.” “So, join us,” the partisans had asked Father. “No, I have to serve the people in the church,” he replied. “That is my mission, to teach, baptize, hear confessions, and celebrate Holy Mass. The Church wants to make the atrocities of war less severe.” “Well, then, all right, but it would be nice if you, holy man, funded a machine gun for the partisans.” Father smiled. “You know that’s impossible,” he relpled. “Yes, we know. It’s hard for you because you don't look good to the Germans, working in our territory. You are a hero.” The situation was very difficult, like being between a ham- mer and an anvil. We couldn’t do anything to upset the parti- sans or, even more, the Germans. But we had to stand firm. We couldn’t abandon the people. We needed to share their sad fate with them. Father was calm. After a few days, he returned to his post. In the meantime, we heard rumors about a possible punitive