Antoni Rewera was a Polish Catholic priest who lived from 1869 to 1942. Born in Samborzec, he pursued his theological studies at the Saint Petersburg Theological Academy before being ordained in 1893. Throughout his career, he served as a professor at the Sandomierz diocesan seminary and held the position of dean for the cathedral chapter. He was also recognized as a Domestic Prelate by Pope Benedict XV and founded the Sisters of St. Francis Sephardic. His life ended during World War II following his arrest for distributing anti-Nazi literature.
Life and service
After his ordination, Rewera became an influential figure in Sandomierz. Beyond his academic role at the seminary, he demonstrated social leadership by establishing a local cooperative in 1907. His dedication to his community and religious duties earned him several honors, including the title of Domestic Prelate. He worked to support religious life through the founding of a specific branch of the Franciscan sisters.
Martyrdom and death
During the German occupation, Rewera was arrested for his involvement in distributing leaflets against the Nazi regime. He was held as a prisoner in the Auschwitz concentration camp before being moved to Dachau. He died in the Dachau camp on 1 October 1942. He is recognized as one of the 108 martyrs of the Second World War.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognizes him as a saint. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II and is commemorated annually on his feast day, 1 October. His legacy is honored within the Catholic tradition as a martyr who died for his convictions during the conflict.