Gerhard Hirschfelder

A commemorative plaque for Gerhard Hirschfelder

His grave in Tscherbeney, now Czermna in Poland

Gerhard Hirschfelder (17 February 1907 – 1 August 1942) was a German Roman Catholic priest and a member of the Clergy who became known for his staunch opposition to the Nazi regime in Germany. He was arrested by the Gestapo for his criticisms of the Nazis and died in the Dachau concentration camp. Hirschfelder is remembered as a martyr of the Catholic Church and was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI on September 19, 2010.

Early Life and Education

Gerhard Hirschfelder was born in Glatz (now Kłodzko, Poland), a town then in the Province of Silesia, part of the German Empire. From a young age, he felt a calling to the priesthood and began his studies in theology at the University of Breslau (now Wrocław, Poland). He was ordained a priest in 1932, amidst the rise of National Socialism in Germany.

Pastoral Work and Opposition to Nazism

After his ordination, Hirschfelder took up pastoral work in the Diocese of Breslau. He was known for his eloquent sermons and his dedication to the youth of his parish. As the Nazi Party gained power in Germany, Hirschfelder became increasingly vocal in his opposition to their ideologies, particularly their attacks on the Catholic Church and their racist policies.

His criticism of the Nazis led to his surveillance by the Gestapo. Despite warnings, Hirschfelder continued to preach against the Nazi regime, focusing on the Christian values of love, tolerance, and the sanctity of human life. His activities made him a target, and in 1941, he was arrested and charged with "abusing the pulpit" and "demoralizing the troops" by criticizing the war and the Nazi leadership.

Imprisonment and Death

Hirschfelder was initially imprisoned in Breslau before being transferred to the Dachau concentration camp, a place notorious for the imprisonment and death of thousands of clergy members who opposed the Nazi regime. Despite the harsh conditions, he continued to minister to fellow prisoners and remained a source of hope and strength for many. On August 1, 1942, Gerhard Hirschfelder died of malnutrition and disease in Dachau.

Beatification

The process for Hirschfelder's beatification began in 1997, and on June 19, 2010, Pope Benedict XVI declared him a martyr of the faith, paving the way for his beatification. The beatification ceremony took place on September 19, 2010, in Münster, Germany, recognizing him officially as Blessed Gerhard Hirschfelder. His life and sacrifice are commemorated in the Catholic Church, and he is considered a symbol of resistance against tyranny and oppression in the name of faith.

Legacy

Gerhard Hirschfelder is remembered not only for his resistance against the Nazi regime but also for his unwavering faith and dedication to the principles of Christianity. His story is a testament to the power of spiritual resistance against physical and ideological oppression. He is celebrated in various ways, including memorials and educational programs aimed at promoting peace, tolerance, and human rights.