The Ulma family: A remarkable beatification of martyrdom
The beatification of the Ulma family in their home town of Markowa in southeastern Poland marks an unprecedented event in modern canonisation.
The Ulma family were killed for having hidden eight Jews in their home in 1944, the family were beatified on 10 September 2023, making it the first time an entire family has been beatified together, including the child carried in the mother's womb at the time of her death.
The family, Józef and Wiktoria Ulma and their children, including the unborn child Wiktoria was carrying, were collectively honoured. This unusual beatification stands as a testament to their sacrifice during World War II, when they sheltered and protected eight Jews from persecution.
Who were the Ulmas?
The Ulma family led an ordinary life against the backdrop of the Second World War. Józef worked in the fields, while Wiktoria managed their home and cared for their six children and another on the way. Through their simple daily routines, they exemplified the teachings of the Gospel. Family prayers, shared faith education, and Bible readings turned their household into what Pope John Paul II termed a "domestic Church", extending their warmth and support even to the most vulnerable members of society, including Jews who faced immense danger.
Journalist Manuela Tulli, in collaboration with historian Fr Pawel Rytel-Andrianik, uncovered the Ulma family's story, and together they published the book "Martyred and Blessed Together: The Extraordinary Story of the Ulma Family".
During a visit to Ukraine, Tulli stumbled upon their story, a discovery that resonated deeply. The Ulmas' images were scattered throughout Poland, portraying a young couple with numerous children. This poignant image prompted reflection on contemporary and historical wars, friendships, and the Ulmas' remarkable act of opening their humble abode – consisting of just two rooms – to eight Jews seeking refuge.
Working toward beatification
The Ulma family's beatification began with the postulator of their cause, who introduced Tulli to their story. Tulli then embarked on a quest to better understand their history. Through her research, she delved into the life of this family that would soon be beatified.
Embedded within their family Bible, a word was underlined: "Samaritan", accompanied by a resounding "yes". This choice epitomised their commitment to aiding others, a commitment that persisted amidst a world fraught with violence and division. Captured in numerous photographs taken by Józef Ulma, an amateur photographer, their industrious and harmonious life stood in stark contrast to the chaos of the era.
Betrayal
Tragedy struck when the Ulmas were denounced and betrayed. Nazi forces stormed their home, and their attic, where they had concealed their Jewish friends, became a site of horror. Józef and Wiktoria were executed in front of their children, with Wiktoria being seven months pregnant. Even the children were not spared. The house was set ablaze, marking the tragic event on 24 March 1944.
A Jewish-Christian martyrdom
Fr Pawel Rytel-Andrianik noted that the Ulmas' martyrdom extended beyond a Christian context; it was a Jewish-Christian martyrdom. This perspective emphasised the senseless killing of innocent lives – the Ulma family and eight Jews – including a chilling detail where the blood of victims stained a photo of two Jewish women hidden beneath, preserved as a relic of their martyrdom. This heartrending story showcased the duality of horror and hope, with the Ulmas attempting to embody the Gospel's light within the difficulties of daily existence.
Recognised as Righteous among the Nations by the State of Israel and Blessed by the Catholic Church, the Ulma family's light continues to shine. Their story defies the darkness of war, and their beatification – including the beatification of their unborn child – is a remarkable affirmation of their sacrifice. Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, has likened this exceptional case to a "Baptism of Blood", echoing the tragic narrative of the Holy Innocents. In their entirety, the Ulma family's legacy underscores the power of love, compassion, and sacrifice amid the darkest of times.
Blessed Józef, Wiktoria, Stasia, Basia, Wládziu, Franio, AntoĊ, Marysia, and unnamed baby Ulma, pray for us.
Original material by Francesca Merlo and Emanuela Campanile, Vatican News
Jozef and Wiktoria Ulma and their seven Children [EWTN]
Wiktoria Ulma and six of their children by Józef Ulma c1943