Pope Francis Approves Beatification of Archbishop Eduard Profittlich
The news of Pope Francis approving the beatification of Archbishop Eduard Profittlich, a German-born Jesuit who served in Estonia and was martyred in the Soviet Union in 1942, has brought a sense of hope and inspiration to the Church.
In a recent audience with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, Pope Francis authorized decrees related to the causes of 21 men and women. Among them, Archbishop Eduard Profittlich’s martyrdom was officially recognized, paving the way for his beatification.
Archbishop Profittlich served as the Apostolic Administrator of Estonia from 1931 until his tragic death in 1942. He was arrested by Soviet Union authorities a year after the invasion of Estonia, deported to a prison in Siberia, and sentenced to death. Sadly, he passed away from exposure in Kirov prison on February 22, 1942, before his sentence could be carried out.
Significance of Beatification for the Church
Bishop Philippe Jourdan, bishop of Tallinn, expressed his joy at the approval of Archbishop Profittlich’s beatification, especially as the local Church commemorates the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Apostolic Administration of Estonia in 1924.
Speaking to Vatican News, Bishop Jourdan highlighted the importance of having the first Blessed from the Church in Estonia. He emphasized that the Church’s mission is to guide people towards salvation and holiness, making Archbishop Profittlich’s beatification a significant milestone.
Despite Estonia’s small numerical size, Bishop Jourdan noted that the beatification places them at the center of the Church, rather than on the periphery. He believes that the recognition of Archbishop Profittlich’s martyrdom will bring a sense of unity and hope to the Catholics of Russia as well.
Example of Faith, Hope, and Peace
Marge-Marie Paas, the Communications Director of the Diocese of Tallinn, played a crucial role in advocating for Archbishop Profittlich’s beatification. She described the martyred Archbishop as an example of faith and hope for many people, with his motto of ‘Faith and Peace’ serving as a guiding light during challenging times.
Ms. Paas emphasized Archbishop Profittlich’s message of faith and peace, encouraging others to hold onto these virtues even in the face of adversity. She believes that his beatification will inspire many to strive for holiness and peace in their lives.
Other Decrees by Pope Francis
In addition to Archbishop Profittlich’s beatification, Pope Francis extended the cult of the martyrs of Compiègne to the universal Church, enrolling them in the catalog of Saints. He also approved decrees regarding the heroic virtues of several Servants of God, highlighting their exemplary lives of faith and dedication.
