Blessed Ulma Family

Józef Ulma, born on March 2, 1900, was a Polish farmer, inventor, and social activist engaged in many areas of life. He graduated from an agricultural school and established the first fruit tree nursery in Markowa. He was also a beekeeper and a silkworm breeder. He had wide interests, including photography and electrical engineering. Socially engaged, he was active in various organizations and was the manager of the Dairy Cooperative. Wiktoria Ulma was born on December 10, 1912. She was active in the community, acted in the village theater, and attended courses organized by the Folk University. She supported her husband in his undertakings. Józef and Wiktoria grew up in believing families. They built their married and family life on the foundation of faith and of love of God and neighbor. Together they had six children and were expecting a seventh.

During World War II, eight people of Jewish origin were hiding in the Ulma family home in Markowa. On the night of March 24 to 25, 1944, the Germans surrounded the house and shot everyone, including seven children.

The Ulma family remains a symbol of courage and self-sacrifice in the face of the cruel reality of war.

What they did was exceptional, especially amid the pervasive propaganda and indoctrination that dehumanized the victims and glorified cruelty.

Despite the personal risk and the possible consequences for their own family, the Ulmas took a step that most people would have considered beyond reach in such conditions. By offering shelter and help to Jews in hiding, they resisted an inhuman system bent on destroying them.

They were beatified in Markowa on September 10, 2023.