Saint Maximilian Kolbe

The Church celebrates the memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, a saint for our time. He gave of his life on August 14, 1941 so that another would live. The ultimate sacrifice of laying down ones life for ones friends. It is also appropriate to celebrate this memorial so close to the Solemnity of the Assumption because Saint Maximilian had a great love and devotion to our Blessed Mother. As one commentary stated: "Saint Maximilian, sustained by his deep love for the Blessed Virgin Mary, found courage in Christ's cross to lay down his life for a fellow concentration camp prisoner" (Magnificat, 169). Even the Collect spoke of Saint Maximilian's "burning love for the Immaculate Virgin Mary and with zeal for souls and love of neighbor". Truly a great example for us!!! May we seek Saint Maximilian's intercession as we grow in our love and devotion for the Blessed Mother and for the love of neighbor. Have a blessed day!!!