Priest, Confessor, Apostle of Divine Mercy
(1888–1975)
Blessed Michał Sopoćko stands among the quiet yet providential instruments of Divine Mercy in the twentieth century. A priest of deep learning, ascetical discipline, and pastoral charity, he is best known as the confessor and spiritual director of Saint Faustina Kowalska, and as the prudent theologian who discerned, defended, and propagated the message of Divine Mercy entrusted to her.
Early Life and Formation
Michał Sopoćko was born on November 1, 1888, in Nowosady, near Vilnius (then within the Russian Empire), into a devout Catholic family. From his youth he displayed a serious temperament and a love for prayer. Raised in difficult political circumstances marked by persecution and cultural suppression, he developed a steadfast fidelity to the Church and a disciplined interior life.
He entered the diocesan seminary of Vilnius and was ordained a priest in 1914. His early priesthood unfolded amid the turbulence of war and social upheaval. Yet even in hardship, he distinguished himself as a zealous confessor and catechist, attentive to the moral and spiritual formation of souls.
Recognized for his intellectual gifts, he pursued further theological studies, eventually becoming a professor of pastoral theology. His academic work never separated him from pastoral concern; rather, it sharpened his ability to guide consciences and defend Catholic doctrine with clarity and precision.
Confessor of Saint Faustina
In 1933, Divine Providence brought him into contact with Sister Maria Faustina Kowalska of the Congregation of Our Lady of Mercy in Vilnius. Assigned as her confessor, Fr. Sopoćko became the careful discerner of her extraordinary mystical experiences.
With theological prudence and obedience to ecclesiastical authority, he tested her revelations rigorously. Only after thorough examination did he become convinced of their authenticity. He encouraged her to record her experiences—now known as the Diary—and helped bring about the first painting of the image of the Merciful Jesus, according to her visions.
Fr. Sopoćko labored tirelessly to obtain ecclesiastical approval for the Divine Mercy devotion. He wrote theological treatises grounding the devotion firmly in Sacred Scripture, the writings of the Fathers, and the perennial doctrine of the Church. He understood Divine Mercy not as novelty, but as a luminous development of the Church’s ancient teaching on God’s redemptive love, flowing from the Sacred Heart of Christ.
Trials and Perseverance
His efforts were not without opposition. During the Second World War, he endured hiding and danger under occupation. Later, misunderstandings and restrictions surrounding the Divine Mercy devotion brought him suffering. Yet he bore all with humility and obedience, never rebelling against ecclesiastical authority, but trusting in God’s providence.
His life was marked by simplicity, recollection, and devotion to the Eucharist. He fostered works of mercy and encouraged priestly holiness. After the war, he continued teaching and quietly promoting the message of trust in Christ’s mercy, even when external circumstances were unfavorable.
Spiritual Character
Blessed Michael Sopoćko embodied:
- Prudence in discernment – testing private revelations carefully.
- Theological clarity – rooting devotion in orthodox doctrine.
- Priestly charity – tireless availability in the confessional.
- Obedience and humility – enduring misunderstanding without bitterness.
- Trust in Divine Providence – persevering through delay and obscurity.
He did not seek prominence; rather, he sought fidelity.
Death and Beatification
Fr. Sopoćko died on February 15, 1975, in Białystok, Poland. His reputation for holiness grew steadily. He was beatified in 2008, recognized as a faithful servant of the Divine Mercy and a model of priestly sanctity.
Spiritual Reflection
Blessed Michael teaches us that great works of God often depend upon hidden fidelity. He reminds confessors and spiritual directors of their grave responsibility: to discern, to guide, and to protect souls from illusion while remaining open to the workings of grace.
For the faithful, his life is an invitation to:
- Trust deeply in the mercy of Christ.
- Approach the Sacrament of Penance frequently.
- Unite devotion with doctrinal soundness.
- Persevere in obedience even amid misunderstanding.
A Prayer for His Intercession
O Blessed Michael Sopoćko,
faithful priest and prudent guide of souls,
who trusted wholly in the mercy of Christ,
obtain for us a deeper confidence
in the infinite compassion of Our Savior.Teach us to love the Sacrament of Penance,
to practice works of mercy,
and to remain obedient to Holy Mother Church.May we, through your intercession,
grow in humility and perseverance
until we behold the Face of Divine Mercy in heaven.
Amen.