Saint Stanislaus Papczynski — The Life and Writings

In his works, Fr. Papczynski emphasized that all followers of Christ are called to evangelical perfection. He wrote that our contemplation of God, not only in eternity, but also here on earth, is hindered by sin, especially mortal sin; and thus per- severing in sin is contrary to the ultimate goal of man, which is seeing God “face to face” (1 Cor 13:12). Saint Stanislaus answers the reality of human sin with the mystery of God’s love, expressed in a special way in the Passion and Death of the Savior. Jesus Christ freed us from death ( The Crucified Orator ). His death on the Cross brought victory over all evil ( The Suffering Christ ). Conversion from sin has to go to- gether with making reparation and finds its external expres- sion in availing oneself of the Sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Penance, which is like man’s “second birth” to the interior life of grace. Penance can transform a sinful man into a son of light whom Christ has freed from the slavery of evil. In the process of conversion, a “meeting” of sinful man with co- suffering Christ occurs. Turning to God and cultivating the spirit of penance is an important manifestation of the pursuit of Christian perfection. Father Papczynski’s writings emphasize that God helps us on the way to perfection. He inspires us to persevere in unity with Him, but those who want to advance in holiness must cooperate with His grace. For this reason, St. Stanislaus assigns great importance to prayer, being mindful of God’s presence, and availing oneself of the eucharist, which strengthens our spiritual life. Father Papczynski — faithful to the teachings of the Church’s Magisterium— insists on the Christian’s full com- mitment to the process of self-improvement ( Contemplating With the Heart ), for the virtues that contain luminous and eter- nal properties prepare for us immortal and infinite radiance ( Prodrumus Reginae Artium ). They are often won through hard work and perseverance in following Christ. Virtue makes us similar to Christ and marks us as disciples of Christ. Therefore, we need to make our lives resemble the life of our Lord, Jesus Christ ( The Crucified Orator ). S AINT S TANISLAUS P APCZYNSKI 46