DEMEURER LIBRES D'ICI JUSQU'À L'ÉTERNITÉ : LA LIBERTÉ DE CONSCIENCE D'UN ÉVÊQUE DANS UNE FOI INCORRUPTIBLE. LE BIENHEUREUX IULIU HOSSU

Abstract

To Abide in Freedom from This Life to Eternity: The Bishop’s Conscience and the Steadfastness of Faith. Blessed Iuliu Hossu. Blessed Iuliu Hossu (1885–1970), bishop of the Greek-Catholic Church, is remembered as a symbol of spiritual freedom, faith, and national unity. Born in Transylvania to a priest’s family, Iuliu distinguished himself early through academic excellence, earning doctorates in philosophy and theology, and mastering several languages. During World War I, he served as a military chaplain, supporting soldiers and comforting the wounded, for which he received recognition and honors. Consecrated bishop in 1917, he emphasized the inseparable link between faith and life, living with humility and compassion. He became a central figure in Romania’s national history when, on December 1, 1918, he read the Resolution of Union at Alba Iulia, symbolizing the unification of Transylvania with Romania. His ecumenical spirit sought harmony between the Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches, seeing unity as essential for national progress. He was known as the “bishop of pastoral visits,” tirelessly traveling to meet his flock, support education, and address both spiritual and material needs. Despite political oppression, he defended his faithful and protected persecuted Jews during World War II, openly urging priests and believers to help them. After 1948, with the communist ban on the Greek-Catholic Church, Hossu was arrested and subjected to imprisonment and forced residence for nearly 14 years. He refused offers to abandon his Church or move to Rome, choosing instead to remain with his suffering flock. His integrity, humility, and resilience made him a spiritual model during these times of persecution. Even in isolation, he remained steadfast in prayer and faith. Secretly created Cardinal in pectore by Pope Paul VI in 1969, his appointment was revealed only after his death in 1970. In 2019, Pope Francis beatified him as a “model of fidelity until the end and prophet of spiritual freedom.” Iuliu Hossu’s life embodied three dimensions: a national hero, a faithful bishop, and a martyr of conscience. His endurance through suffering, his defense of unity and justice, and his unwavering devotion to God and his people make him a lasting icon of faith, freedom, and moral courage.