When I first discovered this image in the German Passionist Foundation photo album, I had the impression of people suffering through an awkward photo shoot.
Perhaps two soldiers unexpectedly dropped in on Fr. Viktor (far left) and Fr. Paul (far right), and they’re praying for the visitation to conclude without incident. The two infantrymen in the middle smile gamely for the camera. Fr. Paul looks as if he’s drawn a deep breath, and the shutter clicked at that instant, leaving him perpetually waiting to exhale. What’s happening here?
Fortunately, I was in Schwarzenfeld at the time when I discovered this photo. The Germans around me knew the context. “Those men in the middle are not just soldiers. They are Passionists, too.”
Their names have been lost to history, but their faces and story remain. They numbered among dozens of priests and novices who were on track to become Passionist monks—until the first waves of Panzers smashed through Poland’s border, and army call-up notices wafted into the hands of military-aged men throughout Germany. A Passionist community forty members strong dropped to thirteen almost overnight. For these men of conscience and prayer, they had nothing but impossible choices. They either faced devastating consequences for refusing to serve their country, or joined fellow comrades in the killing fields, their fate sealed by a leader charting a course for utter destruction.
Now I understand why Fr. Paul looks so uneasy. It’s dawning upon him that this snapshot may soon be all that’s left of these two men.
Viktor is mustering a brave face. During a project such as this, history presents the researcher with a puzzle, and once you put the pieces together, what you discover is truly heartbreaking. You’ll see what I mean in tomorrow’s post.
Useful reminders
This post is part of a month-long series reflecting upon historical events that contributed to my debut historical fiction novel, The Sower of Black Field. Visit the “Latest News” area on my website for a recap »
The Sower of Black Field is available in paperback, eBook / Kindle, and audiobook on Amazon. Get your copy »
For all who would like to read Hedy’s poetry, check out her book To Whom It May Concern, also available on Amazon »
