Saint Maximilian's Death is a Sign of Victory

The inspiration of Maximilian's whole life was the Immaculata. To her he entrusted his love for Christ and his desire for martyrdom. In the mystery of the Immaculate Conception there revealed itself before the eyes of his soul that marvellous and supernatural world of God's grace offered to man. The faith and works of the whole life of Father Maximilian show that he thought of his cooperation with divine grace as warfare under the banner of the Immaculate Conception. This Marian characteristic is particularly expressive in the life and holiness of Father Kolbe. (...) The death of Maximilian Kolbe became a sign of victory. This was victory won over all systematic contempt and hate for man and for what is divine in man - a victory like that won by our Lord Jesus Christ on Calvary. "You are my friends if you do what I command you" (Jn 15:14). The Church accepts this sign of victory - won through the power of Christ's redemption - with reverence and gratitude. She seeks to discern its eloquence with all humility and love.