FATHER MAXIMILIAN MARIA KOLBE – SAINT AND TRAVELLER

Purpose. The main objective of the research presented in this paper was to demonstrate the figure of Saint Father Maximilian Maria Kolbe as a traveller.Method. For the purpose of the research, the biographical method and textual analysis were used. The studied materials included Maximilian Maria Kolbe’s letters and diaries published in print, as well as literature on the subject found on the Internet.Findings. In the course of the research, a number of documents were identified, proving that Father Maximilian Maria Kolbe was a traveller. His interest in journalism and the desire to expand his publishing as well as missionary activity were among the main motives behind his travels.Research and conclusion limitations. The paper is based primarily on the private records of Father Maximilian Maria Kolbe kept from his diaries and letters. The events and experiences described may have been presented in a subjective manner. Some stages of his life were recorded with single entries and therefore, only a comparative analysis can be carried out based on similar events described in the source materials.Practical implications. The results of the research can be a source of biographical information, with particular focus on the aspect of travels in the saint’s life.Originality. The existing research on the figure of Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe has mainly been centred around the life of the Franciscan as a whole, especially his imprisonment and death in Auschwitz I Concentration Camp. References have only been made to his travels to the Far East. An analysis of his travels as a whole, however, presents him in a new light, as an outstanding traveller.Type of research. The paper presents the results of empirical research.