Sometimes, history shines a light on people who lived extraordinary lives, quietly shaping the course of events with courage and deep faith.
One such figure is Blessed Cardinal Iuliu Hossu, a Romanian Greek Catholic bishop remembered not only for his steadfast commitment to his faith but also for his heroic efforts during some of the darkest moments in history.
Recently, Pope Leo XIV reflected on Hossu’s remarkable legacy, highlighting how his life continues to inspire hope and courage today.
A Secret Cardinal in a Time of Persecution
Back in 1969, while imprisoned by the communist regime in Romania for his loyalty to the Catholic Church, Iuliu Hossu was secretly made a cardinal by Pope Paul VI.
This kind of appointment—called “in pectore,” meaning “in the heart”—is a way for the pope to honor someone without revealing their name publicly, often for their protection.
It wasn’t until three years after Hossu’s death in 1970 that the Vatican officially announced his cardinalate.
This secret recognition underscores the risks Hossu faced simply by standing firm in his faith under a brutal regime that sought to silence the Church.
A Protector of Life Amidst Horrors
What makes Cardinal Hossu’s story even more inspiring is his bravery during World War II.
Pope Leo XIV pointed out that Hossu is recognized as “Righteous Among the Nations” — an honor given by Yad Vashem in Jerusalem to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews from the Holocaust.
Between 1940 and 1944, during the Nazi occupation of Northern Transylvania, Hossu courageously helped save thousands of Jewish lives by openly opposing their deportation to extermination camps.
His commitment went beyond words. In 1944, he wrote a heartfelt pastoral letter urging his fellow Romanians to help Jews “not only with your thoughts but also with your sacrifice.”
This call to action, born out of deep compassion and faith, echoes as a powerful reminder of humanity in times of overwhelming darkness.
Living Faith Through Forgiveness and Courage
Pope Leo XIV also reminded everyone of Hossu’s spiritual strength during his imprisonment, where he lived a life of prayer and dedication to others despite suffering.
Hossu’s own words shine through time: “God has sent us into this darkness of suffering to forgive and pray for the conversion of all.”
This message, according to the pope, continues to challenge us today—to overcome hatred with forgiveness and to live our faith boldly.
Beatified in 2019 by Pope Francis alongside six other martyred bishops, Hossu’s legacy is that of a man who truly embodied faith as a way of life—even when it demanded the highest sacrifice.
A Lasting Example of Courage and Generosity
Pope Leo XIV urged people to embrace Cardinal Hossu’s motto, “Our faith is our life,” as a guiding light for these turbulent times.
He described Hossu as a model of freedom, courage, and generosity—someone willing to face danger and persecution to protect the vulnerable.
The pope’s final call was clear: to reject all violence, especially against the defenseless like children and families, and to let Hossu’s example inspire peace and hope around the world.
Who Was Iuliu Hossu?
Born on January 30, 1885, in Milas, Romania, Iuliu Hossu was a deeply educated man who dedicated his life to the Church.
He studied theology in Rome and was ordained a priest in 1910.
By 1917, he became bishop of the Greek Catholic Eparchy of Gerla, later renamed Cluj-Gherla.
His life was marked by hardship under both Nazi occupation and communist rule.
Arrested by the communist authorities in 1948, Hossu endured years of imprisonment in harsh conditions, moving through several prisons and monasteries until his death in 1970.
Even in prison, his faith never wavered. In 1961, he wrote from behind bars, “I ask your forgiveness for all my sins and I thank you with all my being for all that you have given me.”
His last words, spoken in a hospital shortly before passing, were a testament to his enduring spirit: “My battle is over; yours continues.”