7 Powerful Lessons Catholic Families Can Learn from St. Maximilian Kolbe
By Anthony D’Ambrosio
St. Maximilian Kolbe didn’t just live the Gospel — he gave everything for it. His story is one of fearless love and radical faith, and as Triumph of the Heart prepares to hit theaters, his example feels especially urgent for Catholic families today.
Here are seven lessons from Kolbe’s life that can shape how we love, parent, and grow in holiness together.
1. Love Means Sacrifice
Maximilian Kolbe’s decision to give his life for another is a radical witness to the kind of love Jesus calls us to. Families aren’t perfect, but when we choose to put one another’s needs above our own—even in the small everyday moments—we’re practicing that same sacrificial love.
Try this: Tonight, ask your family members to share one way they can “give up” a comfort or preference for the good of someone else.
2. Prayer Is the Breath That Sustains Us
In Auschwitz, Kolbe’s faith was a lifeline. Prayer wasn’t just a ritual; it was a lifegiving conversation with God. For families, this means carving out intentional moments to pray together—even when life feels hectic.
Try this: Start with a simple prayer before meals or bedtime, and invite everyone to offer one prayer intention aloud.
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3. Courage Isn’t Absence of Fear — It’s Choosing Faith Over Fear
Kolbe stood tall before death because his eyes were fixed on something greater than himself. This kind of courage is something every child and parent can learn from—it’s not about never being afraid, but about doing what’s right even when your heart pounds.
Try this: Share a story of courage from your own life or from the lives of the saints, and invite your kids to share theirs too.
A New Movie About St. Maximilian Kolbe Coming To Theaters This Fall
4. Stand Up for the Vulnerable — That’s Where True Strength Lies
Kolbe’s life challenges us to protect the weak and speak for those who have no voice. Teaching kids empathy and justice isn’t always easy, but it’s essential.
Try this: Volunteer as a family, or find a cause you can support together, and talk about why it matters.
5. Forgiveness Is Freedom
Family life is full of moments where forgiveness is needed. Kolbe’s witness reminds us that forgiveness isn’t a feeling; it’s a decision—a gift we give both to others and to ourselves.
Try this: When conflict arises, pause and invite your family to practice saying, “I forgive you,” and mean it.
6. Discovering God’s Purpose in Our Lives
Kolbe’s life was marked by a clear sense of mission. Helping our children understand their unique gifts and calling is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.
Try this: Spend time asking your kids what they love and what makes them feel alive. Pray together about those dreams.
7. Joy in the Midst of Trials
Despite the horrors Kolbe endured, his heart remained joyful and hopeful. Families today can take that hope as a powerful lesson—joy isn’t the absence of suffering, but the presence of God.
Try this: Keep a family gratitude journal or share one thing you’re thankful for each day.
St. Maximilian Kolbe’s story is a powerful reminder that holiness and heroism begin in the ordinary moments of family life—through sacrifice, courage, prayer, and love. As “Triumph of the Heart” draws near, let’s take these lessons to heart and live them boldly.
Our families need this kind of inspiration now more than ever. May Kolbe’s courage ignite a fire in our homes.
