On April 11, the universal Catholic Church honors St. Stanislaus of Krakow, an 11th-century bishop whose unwavering defense of truth and justice led to martyrdom at the hands of King Boleslaus II. Though Poland commemorates him on May 8 — the date of his death in 1079 — his witness continues to inspire the faithful around the world.
Born in July 1030 near Krakow, Stanislaus Szczepanowski was the son of devout noble parents, Belislaus and Bogna. According to Catholic News Agency, his parents “showed great zeal and charity in their practice of the Catholic faith,” a legacy their son would carry forward with courage and holiness. Stanislaus pursued his studies first in Poland, then traveled to Paris to deepen his knowledge in theology and canon law.
After returning home and being ordained a priest, Stanislaus served in various pastoral and administrative roles in the Church of Krakow. Upon the death of Bishop Lambert Zula, he was appointed as his successor in 1071 — a role he initially resisted. However, as Catholic News Agency reports, he “obeyed Pope Alexander II’s order to accept it,” stepping into the position with humility and fidelity.
As bishop, Stanislaus became known for his bold preaching of the Gospel, even when it put him at odds with the powerful. He confronted Poland’s King Boleslaus II, who had gained a reputation for “his violent and depraved lifestyle.” The bishop’s repeated attempts to correct the king’s behavior met resistance and hostility. Eventually, when all efforts at reform failed, Stanislaus excommunicated the king — a decision that would cost him his life.
According to Catholic News Agency, King Boleslaus “responded with furious anger, sending henchmen to kill the bishop.” When they refused or failed to carry out the act, the king himself struck Stanislaus down with a sword “during his celebration of Mass.”
St. Stanislaus was immediately revered as a martyr for the faith, and the impact of his sacrifice was swift. The king’s reputation crumbled, and he was eventually forced into exile. It is said that Boleslaus later lived out his days in a monastery, repenting for his crime.
The legacy of St. Stanislaus loomed large in Polish history, and his witness became a source of national pride and spiritual renewal. He was canonized in 1253, becoming one of the most beloved patrons of the Polish people. His influence extended into modern times, especially in the life of Pope John Paul II, who once served as Archbishop of Krakow — a role historically referred to as the “See of St. Stanislaus.”
In a 2003 letter to the Polish Church, Pope John Paul II reflected deeply on the bishop’s enduring significance, saying:
“He taught the moral order in the family based on sacramental marriage. He taught the moral order within the state, reminding even the king that in his actions he should keep in mind the unchanging law of God.”
Through St. Stanislaus, he added, God taught the Polish nation to respect “the law of God and the just rights of every person.” (according to Catholic News Agency)
St. Stanislaus remains a towering example of moral courage in the face of corruption. His feast invites every Catholic to reflect on the call to speak truth to power, to protect the dignity of the Church, and to stand firm for righteousness — even when the cost is great.
