The Untold Stories: Petitions to Pope Pius XII During WWII
Historian Hubert Wolf is shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II history—thousands of petitions sent to Pope Pius XII begging for help in fleeing Nazi persecution. In a recent interview with Vatican News, Wolf shared insights from his research into these heartfelt pleas.
Diving into History
The Archive of the House of the Superior General of the Society of Jesus has joined forces with the US Holocaust Memorial Museum to digitize archival material related to these petitions. This collaboration aims to bring these stories to light and honor those who sought refuge during a dark period in history.
A Cry for Help
Amidst the chaos of war, individuals like Martin Wachskerz penned desperate letters to Pope Pius XII, seeking assistance in escaping the horrors of the Holocaust. These emotional pleas, now uncovered by Wolf’s team at the University of Münster, offer a glimpse into the raw emotions of those facing persecution.
The Vatican’s Response
Wolf’s research reveals the Vatican’s efforts to aid those in need, though often hindered by external factors. Despite challenges, the Vatican’s attempts to intervene and secure visas for individuals like Wachskerz demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian values.
A Complex Investigation
Wolf’s team faces a daunting task of tracing the fates of each petitioner, unraveling their stories from archives around the world. With the help of retired experts and dedicated researchers, they are piecing together a narrative of courage and resilience.
Preliminary Findings
While the research is ongoing, early insights suggest a nuanced picture of Pope Pius XII’s involvement during the Holocaust. Through continued analysis, Wolf hopes to shed more light on the Vatican’s actions and decisions during this critical period in history.
Exploring the Archives
Wolf and his team have made a selection of petition letters available on their website, “Asking the Pope for Help,” inviting the public to engage with these historical documents. The site serves as a valuable resource for educators and researchers seeking to delve deeper into this untold chapter of WWII.
