Franz Jagerstatter : Letters And Writings From Prison

An inspiring testament of faith and courage from a modern martyr of conscience.

“My dear loved ones, the hour draws ever nearer when I shall give my soul back to
God…”

Franz Jagerstatter, an Austrian farmer, devoted husband and father, and devout Catholic, was executed in 1943 for refusing to serve in the Nazi army. Before taking this stand Jagerstatter had consulted both his pastor and his local bishop, who instructed him to do his duty and to obey the law-an instruction that violated his conscience. For many years Jagerstatter’s solitary witness was honored by the Catholic peace movement, while viewed with discomfort by many of his fellow Austrians.Now, with his beatification in 2007, his example has been embraced by the universal church.He stands as one of the great martyrs of our time.

These writings, including the correspondence between Franz and his wife Franziska and a series of reflections written in prison, represent the first complete English translation of his writings. An introduction by Jim Forest sets these writings in the context of Franz’s life and times, and draws out their meaning for today. Blessed Franz’s moving expression of faith and his unswerving obedience to conscience carry an urgent and timeless message.