Życie i działalność pasterska ks. bp. Franciszka Jaczewskiego (1832-1914)

Abstract

Bishop Franciszek Jaczewski (1832-1914) is one of outstanding figures associated with the present Drohiczyn diocese. He was born in the village of Górki Grubaki (the parish of Korytnica). The fact the local school has been named after him, inspired the author of the article to recount his life against the historical background. Bishop Jaczewski lived and worked in the conditions that were extremely difficult for Poland and Polish Catholic Church. The end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century was the period of post-Uprising persecutions, repressions of the Uniates, introducing Russian language in schools, developing Mariavite ideas, revolutionary movements and a ban of church building. The above was the background of Bishop Jaczewski’s life, education and career which is discussed in the first part of the article. Chapter Two is dedicated to his work as a bishop (especially his pastoral and administrative activities). The final part focuses on the Bishop’s scientific research. Bishop Jaczewski is seen as a good shepherd, teacher, defender of the Church and human dignity and a man of honour. The results of his work (establishing new parishes, building a seminar, scientific works) are still seen today. It seems necessary to recall them to learn how to live our everyday lives.