Among the forgotten thousands of Christians who suffered and died in Nazi concentration camps during World War Il, the Carmelite Friar Titus Brandsma stands out as an example for men and women of all faiths - or of no faith.
This "dangerous little friar" as he was known to his captors was called "Uncle Titus" by his fellow prisoners - Jews and Protestants as well as Catholics. He accepted martyrdom in solidarity with all who defend freedom of religion in the face of extreme pressure from an unjust government.
Essays On Titus Brandsma provides insights into a man with a down-to-earth approach to reality: material, cultural, spiritual. His personal convictions transformed his work into ministry his professional contacts into personal relationships, his life into love of God expressed in service to his fellowman.
Given the historical situation in which he found himself, martyrdom was the logical conclusion.