Presentation of "Think Hope" underscores enduring faith during historic presidential visit.
[Exton, PA - September 21, 2025] His Excellency Karol Nawrocki, President of the Republic of Poland, and First Lady Mrs. Marta Nawrocka visited the National Shrine of Our Lady of Częstochowa, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, where they joined clergy, Polish-American leaders, and members of the community for a celebration of faith and heritage.
The visit included Mass at the Shrine followed by a luncheon with clergy, Polish cultural leaders, and invited guests, and an award ceremony honoring leaders within the Polish-American community.
During the occasion, Ascension presented President Nawrocki with a copy of Think Hope: Maria Middleton’s Life of Unyielding Trust in God, a newly released work recounting the extraordinary witness of Maria Middleton, a Philadelphia teenager diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor whose radiant faith and steadfast trust in God continues to inspire people around the world.
The presentation carried particular significance, as Maria frequently visited the Shrine during her lifetime. Her final written words “think hope” have since become a call to perseverance and trust for many facing suffering and uncertainty.
Antonia Salzano Acutis, mother of St. Carlo Acutis, visited the Shrine in 2023 and met Maria’s parents. Reflecting on the book’s message, she said: “Think Hope gives readers a glimpse into the inspiring witness of a young woman who fully embraced God’s plan for her life. Her example of a virtuous life offered for the conversion of others is a beacon of light in a world that has forgotten God.”
To learn more about Maria’s story and Think Hope, visit: www.AscensionPress.com/ThinkHope.
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About the Authors
Brian and Susan Middleton are the parents of a blended family of six whose lives were forever changed when their youngest daughter, Maria, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Accompanying her through suffering became the most profound spiritual journey of their lives. They now serve as directors of the Think Hope Foundation, continuing Maria’s legacy of faith and hope.
E. Ron Watson witnessed Maria’s final months while serving in communications for a regional health system. Deeply moved by her witness, he set out to share her story so that others might encounter the same grace and renewal of faith he experienced. In retirement, he volunteers in the press office of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Częstochowa.
About Ascension
Ascension is a multimedia network and the leader in Catholic faith formation and digital content. Over the past 25 years, Ascension has helped nurture the faith of over 20 million Catholics through award-winning books, the chart-topping Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)® podcast, more than 50 unique faith formation programs, and the Ascension Presents YouTube channel and Ascension app.
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