Św. Jozafat Kuncewicz – reformator Cerkwi na Rusi
Saint Jozafat Kuncewicz – Reformer of the Church in Rus

Summary/Abstract: 400th anniversary of the martyrdom of Saint Jozafat Kuncewicz is an op-portunity to look at the bishopʼs activities in Polotsk. The author of the articlebegins presenting the reforming activity of Archbishop Josaphat by depictinghistorical conditions of the Polotsk diocese in the beginning of the 16th centu-ry. He emphasizes the need for reforms in the spiritual and moral field. Thischurch at the time was in a state of deep economic, moral and spiritual crisis.The Archbishop focused on raising the intellectual and moral level of the cler-gy through diocesan synods, promoting the Catechism and the rules of priestlylife. He targeted vices such as drinking, gambling addiction, and greed. Hedemanded his priests follow the rules of priestly life proper to the Church.Josaphat also undertook the work of moral and religious upliftment of the layfaithful. He used sermons and personal dialogue as a tool to combat widespreadreligious ignorance. He encouraged people to go to confession frequently andregularly participate in the Eucharist. The article draws on materials from thebeatification and canonization process of St. Josaphat and the most importantstudies of the Saintʼs biography in Polish. The author emphasizes the relevanceof Saint Josaphat’s reforming methods. He highlights the value of dialogue asan effective tool of evangelization.

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