The Warsaw Province of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer completed a period of intense missionary activity and preaching during Lent 2026, confirming a tradition that has its roots in the 19th century.
Polish Redemptorists have historically been recognized—both at home and among Polish diaspora communities worldwide—as popular missionaries and retreat preachers. This ministry expresses their fidelity to the Congregation’s founding charism and responds to the concrete needs of the local Church.
The numbers of Lent 2026
Overall, the Province carried out 541 series of pastoral activities, divided as follows: 409 series of parish spiritual retreats, 72 series of school retreats, 36 mission renewals, 9 parish missions, and 15 retreats for priests, nuns, and lay people.
Considering that there are over 10,300 parishes in Poland, the Redemptorists reached approximately 4.8% of the country’s parish communities in a single liturgical season—a significant achievement, considering that other male religious institutes and numerous diocesan priests also work in the same activity.
Parish missions and specialized retreats represent a smaller percentage of the Lenten total: the Province in fact favors the ordinary period of the year for this type of initiative.
The face of the Redemptorist exercises
The Redemptorists who lead parish retreats are committed to addressing the most current pastoral issues for the Church in Poland. An important aspect of their formation is the homiletic workshops, which the Province organizes annually. Great attention is paid to rediscovering the sacrament of Reconciliation and fostering a more conscious participation in the Eucharist. Their preaching employs a richly imagery language, capable of touching both the hearts and minds of their listeners.
A significant element is the Marian dimension: Mary is presented as a constant companion on the path of an authentic and profound Christian life—a faithful echo of Redemptorist spirituality which, from Alphonsus de Liguori onwards, has always combined evangelization and devotion to the Mother of the Redeemer.
Fr. Mariusz Mazurkiewicz, CSsR.
(abbreviated article, source: www.redemptor.pl)
