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**Summary:**

This article commemorates the 45th anniversary of the August Agreements in Poland, which led to the formation of the “Solidarity” movement and ultimately contributed to the fall of communism. The article highlights the role of the Jasna Góra monastery as a spiritual center for the movement, emphasizing its significance in the fight for freedom and workers’ rights. It mentions the upcoming Mass and prayers being held at Jasna Góra to honor the anniversary and those who fought for freedom. The article also describes the historical artifacts related to Solidarity on display at Jasna Góra, showcasing the monastery’s role as a repository of the movement’s legacy.

**News Article:**

**Poland Marks 45th Anniversary of “Solidarity” at Jasna Góra, a Cradle of Freedom**

**Częstochowa, Poland –** Poland is commemorating the 45th anniversary of the August Agreements, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history that led to the birth of the “Solidarity” movement and ultimately paved the way for the end of communism. Events are being held nationwide to mark the occasion, with a special focus on Jasna Góra Monastery in Częstochowa, a site revered as a spiritual stronghold for the movement.

The August Agreements, signed in 1980, granted significant concessions to striking workers, leading to the formation of the Independent Self-Governing Trade Union “Solidarity” (NSZZ “Solidarność”). This gave a voice to millions of Poles demanding freedom, dignity, and workers’ rights.

Today, Jasna Góra will host a special Mass for the Homeland at 3:30 PM, presided over by Father Ryszard Umański, chaplain of Częstochowa’s “Solidarity.” Prayers will be offered for those who fought for Poland’s freedom and for those who continue to cherish the country and work for the common good. The traditional Jasna Góra Appeal will also include prayers for the nation.

Father Umański has reminded the public of the words of Blessed Father Jerzy Popiełuszko, a legendary chaplain of “Solidarity” martyred in 1984, who stated that “Solidarity was born on its knees.” He emphasized the crucial role of the church in the movement, recalling the Masses held in factories and the pilgrimages to Jasna Góra, where workers sought strength and wisdom from the Virgin Mary.

Jasna Góra holds a prominent place in the history of “Solidarity,” a place that John Paul II called “where we were always free.” The monastery holds numerous artifacts that speak to Solidarity movement and the struggle for freedom, including: a small sculpture of a worker that stood on the presidium table during the signing of the August Agreements, and a pen with the image of John Paul II that was used to sign the Gdańsk Agreement. Visitors can also view banners, photographs, and other items documenting the period. These artifacts serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a free and independent Poland.

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