The funeral of Father Lech Lachowicz, tragically murdered at the age of 72, drew an emotional outpouring of grief and solidarity in Szczytno, Poland. The long-serving parish priest of St. Brother Albert’s Church was honored with deeply moving ceremonies, including a vigil and funeral Mass led by Archbishop Józef Górzyński of Warmia.
Hundreds gathered to bid farewell to a beloved spiritual leader and community builder. Among the most poignant moments were the congregation’s rendition of Angel’s Procession and the final removal of his coffin from the church he had constructed. “Each of our hearts broke with this senseless act,” said Mayor Stefan Ochman during his eulogy.
The tragedy unfolded when a 27-year-old suspect forcibly entered the rectory, attacking Father Lachowicz with a metal hatchet in a robbery attempt. A parish worker’s brave intervention prevented further violence. The suspect, now in custody, confessed to the crime.
Father Lachowicz dedicated nearly 50 years to his ministry, including over three decades as pastor in Szczytno, where he built not only a church and rectory but also a strong spiritual community. Born in 1952 in Lidzbark Warmiński, he served in several parishes before settling in Szczytno in 1990. His legacy, marked by unwavering faith and commitment, lives on in the hearts of his parishioners and beyond.
Messages of condolence and prayers have poured in from around the world, reflecting the profound impact of his life and the shock of his untimely death. May he rest in peace.