On November 12, 2024, in Krakow, Archbishop Marek Jędraszewski, Metropolitan of Krakow, announced the initiation of the beatification and canonization process for the Servant of God, Fr. Józef Andrasz, SJ. A Jesuit priest, spiritual director, and confessor, Fr. Andrasz is best known for his ministry to St. Faustina Kowalska, the Apostle of Divine Mercy.

Early Life and Priestly Calling

Fr. Józef Andrasz was born on October 16, 1891, in Wielopole, near Nowy Sącz. From an early age, he felt a profound calling to the priesthood and religious life. At the age of nearly fifteen, he entered the Society of Jesus and was ordained a priest in 1919.

Fr. Andrasz was a man of many talents and an exceptional work ethic. He devoted himself entirely to serving God and his fellow men and women, excelling in a variety of pastoral and apostolic endeavors. He was a sought-after preacher, retreat leader, ascetical writer, and translator of mystical works. He also served as an editor and played a key role in promoting the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Divine Mercy. In addition, he organized and led Marian Sodalities, fostering a deep Marian spirituality among the faithful.

Role in St. Faustina Kowalska’s Spiritual Journey

In 1933, at the convent in Krakow-Łagiewniki, Fr. Andrasz first encountered St. Faustina Kowalska. He served as her spiritual director for nearly three years during the formative early phase of her mystical experiences. From the outset, Fr. Andrasz believed in the authenticity of her encounters with Christ and provided unwavering support as she carried out the mission entrusted to her. In her Diary, St. Faustina expressed profound gratitude for his spiritual guidance, which she regarded as essential to her journey.

Fr. Andrasz passed away on February 1, 1963, in Krakow. His funeral drew a large gathering of the faithful, a testament to the widespread respect and admiration he had earned throughout his life.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Fr. Andrasz’s life and spiritual contributions. Many of the faithful pray for his intercession in challenging circumstances, and devotion to him has steadily increased.

Significance of the Beatification Process

The opening of the beatification process for Fr. Józef Andrasz, SJ, is a significant event for the Church in Poland. It honors the life and legacy of a devoted priest and religious who dedicated himself fully to God and the service of others. His beatification would recognize not only his outstanding contributions to the Church but also his enduring spiritual impact on the faithful.