Father Kentenich and His Decision of January 20th: A Beacon of Hope
On January 20th, Father Joseph Kentenich made a significant decision that would forever shape the Schoenstatt Movement and its members. Imprisoned by the Nazis in the Gestapo prison in Koblenz, Germany, Father Kentenich faced a critical moment that would test his faith and commitment.
Why Was He Imprisoned?
Father Joseph Kentenich was imprisoned by the Nazis due to his influential role as the founder of the Schoenstatt Movement, which promoted Christian values and spiritual renewal. The Nazis viewed his work as a threat to their ideology and control. His outspoken opposition to the regime and his efforts to foster a strong, faith-based community made him a target for persecution.
Despite being offered a legitimate opportunity to avoid transportation to a concentration camp, Father Kentenich made a profound and courageous decision to decline this chance. This day became a milestone of profound importance, symbolising hope, faith, and inner freedom.
Offering His Freedom for the Schoenstatt Family
Father Kentenich’s decision was rooted in his deep faith and commitment to the Schoenstatt family. He offered his own freedom to contribute to the inner freedom of the Schoenstatt members. He urged his followers to understand this act through faith in the reality of the supernatural and the interconnectedness of their destinies. In doing so, he directed the Schoenstatt family toward God and His will.
He wrote, “Freedom is the most valuable possession of human beings. I offer this freedom with sincere, glowing love so that dear God will give the spirit of this inner freedom to the children of God forever— for this, I am prepared to bear the chains of imprisonment.” This act of self-sacrifice highlighted the unity of destiny and life between the founder and his followers, elevating their awareness of its deep significance.
Embracing Suffering and Trusting in God’s Mercy
Father Kentenich did not shy away from suffering; instead, he embraced it as part of the mystical body of Christ. Like Christ, he trusted in the merciful love and guidance of God, believing that even in the darkest moments, there is hope for something better. His unwavering faith and trust in God served as an inspiration for many, especially during his time in the concentration camp
An Inspiration in the Concentration Camp
During his imprisonment, Father Kentenich continued to inspire those around him. He delivered theological talks, encouraged others, and maintained his dignity. He also respected the dignity of others, including the guards who mistreated him. He looked beyond their outward brutality and recognized the inherent worth of each individual.
One example: When he arrived at the Dachau concentration camp and the guards mocked the priests, one SS guard told him, “We have never seen God here!” and Father Kentenich replied for all to hear, “If you have not seen God here, you have surely seen the devil.” On another day, an SS man treated him aggressively, shouting at him. The next day, Father Kentenich calmly asked the Nazi at the reception, “Why did you shout at me like that yesterday?” The Nazi took him to his office, and everyone thought Father Kentenich would pay dearly for his audacity. But the Nazi began to talk about his private life, confiding in Father Kentenich.
Father Kentenich’s decision on January 20th stands as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith, the value of inner freedom, and the enduring hope that comes from trusting God’s plan. His legacy continues to inspire and guide the Schoenstatt family and all who seek to live a life of faith and surrender to God’s will.
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How This Gives Us Hope Today
- Faith in Adversity Father Kentenich’s unwavering faith in the face of extreme adversity reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can find strength and hope through our faith. His trust in God’s plan, despite the suffering he endured, encourages us to hold on to our beliefs and trust that better days are ahead.
- Inner Freedom His emphasis on inner freedom teaches us that true freedom comes from within. By nurturing our spiritual and personal growth, we can remain resilient and steadfast, regardless of external circumstances. This inner freedom empowers us to face challenges with courage and integrity.
- Solidarity and Community Father Kentenich’s commitment to his followers and the sense of unity he fostered within the Schoenstatt family highlight the importance of community and mutual support. In times of difficulty, leaning on our communities and supporting one another can provide the strength and encouragement we need to persevere.
- Dignity and Compassion His ability to see the inherent worth in every individual, even those who mistreated him, inspires us to treat others with dignity and compassion. By recognizing the humanity in everyone, we can build a more empathetic and understanding world.
- Hope in Suffering Father Kentenich’s belief that suffering can have a greater purpose and his trust in God’s mercy remind us that there is hope even in the midst of pain. His story encourages us to find meaning in our struggles and to believe that our hardships can lead to growth and transformation.
Final thoughts
Father Kentenich’s legacy is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith, the value of inner freedom, and the hope that comes from trusting in God’s plan. His example continues to inspire us to live with courage, compassion, and unwavering faith, no matter what challenges we face.
