Sr Amata J. Nowaszewska CSFN
The central event during the Jubilee for The Work of the New Millenium was a Mass celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to Poland, Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi at the Marian Sanctuary of Jasna Góra.
In his homily, Archbishop Filipazzi emphasized the importance of gratitude and generosity in both personal and social life.
Building a ‘culture of life’ inspired by St. John Paul II
Archbishop Filipazzi encouraged the scholarship holders to promote a “culture of life” in contrast to the selfishness and relativism of today’s world. He stressed that this is possible if we live according to the message of St John Paul II: “Man cannot fully find himself except through a sincere gift of self.”
After the Mass, representatives of the scholarship holders entrusted the entire Work of the New Millennium community to the Blessed Virgin Mary, declaring: “We want to build a civilization of love by following the path of life’s vocation, the unique calling God has given each of us.”
A scholarship — just the beginning
The Foundation was established to support young people for whom financial hardship stood in the way of education, emphasized Fr Dariusz Kowalczyk, Chairman of the Board. Yet, as he noted, “financial support alone is not enough.” Scholarship holders are encouraged to meet, build community, and grow spiritually.
Marta Dywicka, a former scholarship holder and graduate of jazz vocal studies in Gdańsk, says the Foundation enabled her to embark on a professional music career. She recalls it as a “milestone in her artistic, personal, and spiritual growth”.
A day of prayer, community, and music
The anniversary celebrations began with a pilgrimage and a rosary prayer at Jasna Góra. After the Mass, participants gathered for a picnic in the gardens of the Diocesan Seminary in Częstochowa — a time of shared testimonies, memories, and a celebratory cake. In the evening, the Foundation’s choir and orchestra performed an oratorio concert at the monastery, followed by the traditional Jasna Góra Appeal with the jubilee participants.
A “Living Memorial” of St John Paul II
Founded by the Polish Bishops’ Conference in 2000, the Work of the New Millennium Foundation was created in response to St John Paul II’s call for solidarity with youth from smaller towns and low-income families.
To date, the Foundation has supported around 10,000 students across Poland — not only through scholarships but also by fostering spiritual formation and volunteer involvement. Scholarships are awarded from grade 7 through university graduation. Since 2022, the Foundation has also provided support to young refugees from Ukraine.
The Foundation is often referred to as a “living memorial of St John Paul II.” – Vatican News
