Abstract

In the first part, the author lists various definitions of power. They discuss the teleological mission of power, behavioral power, and instrumental power, when it ‚forces’ subordinates to achieve previously intended goals using various means (tools) – be they spiritual or coercive, persuasive or verbal in nature. The author writes about the structural definition of power, about power as a specific influence, and about conflictual power, when those in power create conflict situations or, conversely, are capable of resolving them. In the second part of the text, the author briefly analyzes the governance style of Blessed Wyszyński. He writes that he exercised power in a purposeful sense, with the intention of achieving noble goals, both evangelical and important for the common good, as not all citizens of the country were believers. And even if they were, due to political conditions (communism), they could not
publicly express their inner beliefs unless they aligned with the directives of the communist authorities. Wyszyński held power in two areas: within the Church, of which he was a bishop, and within the Polish state, which was under communist authority, thus combating the Church and its teachings. In both areas, the primate exercised power with a sense of purpose. He wanted to achieve maximally positive results in his service, both in the ecclesiastical and social spheres. It was about the good of both the Church and the state, as he was a faithful member of the Church and a citizen of the country that was his homeland.