After the Nazi Occupation in Poland, a Soviet-run government took control and imposed its own communist rule.
During the years of 1945-1989, Poland's Catholics suffered greatly from the atheistic regime, but not without opposition.
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński was strongly opposed to the communist agenda and did all that he could to fight for Polish freedom.
He was the "Primate of Poland," which was a term used to denote the leading bishop of the country. Because of his strong opposition to communism, even in the face of persecution, he was later dubbed the "Iron Primate." Wyszyński was imprisoned for 3 years, from 1953-1956, for his resistance.
Throughout his life Wyszyński was devoted to the Virgin Mary and entrusted all his sufferings to her. His example was an inspiration to St. John Paul II, who credited him as a playing a vital role in his pontificate.
John Paul II said this clearly in a letter to the Polish people on the day after his election on October 23, 1978.
It was Wyszyński's example of faith that bolstered John Paul II's faith, paving the way to his election as pope.
John Paul II later pointed to Wyszyński as a "keystone" of the Church in Poland.
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński died on May 28, 1981, shortly after the failed assassination attempt on John Paul II on May 13, 1981. His example of holiness has now been officially recognized by the Catholic Church with his beatification on September 12, 2021.
