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Dzierozynski, Rev. Francis, S.J.
Born in Orsza (Mohilew) Russia, Jan. 3, 1779. Entered the Society of Jesus, Aug. 13, 1794. Distinguished in theology, he became professor of that subject in the University of Polotsk. When the imperial order (1820) has driven the Jesuits from Russia, he found refuge in Bolonia, Italy, and taught theology to the young men of the Society. On November 8, 1821 he arrived in Philadelphia, Pa. He was the first Polish Jesuit in the United States. For a short time he was professor of Philosophy in the Georgetown University; Vice-President of that institution; later Superior of Maryland Mission (1823 1830); Superior of the Jesuit Maryland Province, 1821-1848; Provincial, 1840-1843; arranged for the opening of the "Holy Cross College" in Worcester, Mass. Most of his later years he spent as Master of Novices. One of Maryland's Provincials wrote about him to the General of Society the following words: "Whatever he says or does is a stimulus for them to religious perfection." No wonder that they venerated him as a saint. On September 22, 1850, in the novitiate at Frederick, Md., he passed away. He left a memory of his holy life and of great services rendered to the Catholic Church in U.S.

From: "Who's Who in Polish America" by Rev. Francis Bolek, Editor-in-Chief; Harbinger House, New York, 1943

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