Ready to discover a place where faith meets history? Parafia Świętej Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus w Otwocku-Świdrze is such a place. It stands as a testament to community spirit and devotion.
This parish began its journey in 1950. Stefan Wyszyński established it. The parish was carved from the territory of Otwock. Świder, Rycice and Zamądz formed the new parish.
The story of Parafia Świętej Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus is closely linked to the local devotion to Saint Teresa. The Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Teresa fostered this devotion. Later, the Teresian Institute continued this work. In the 1920s, the Youth Circles of Teresian women flourished here. They spread throughout Poland.
The land where the church stands once belonged to the Teresian Institute. They gave it to the parish. Until 1972, diocesan priests served here. After that, the Missionaries of the Holy Family arrived. Their first task was to renovate the existing church.
Father Wirgiliusz Jarzyński initiated the construction of a new church in 1972. Leszek Klajnert designed it. Construction began on October 22, 1981. Bishop Zbigniew Kraszewski consecrated the walls. He celebrated the first Holy Mass in the lower church on September 8, 1985. Cardinal Józef Glemp consecrated the church on November 30, 1986.
The construction of Parafia Świętej Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus was a community endeavor. The Missionaries of the Holy Family spearheaded it. Parishioners and people of good will contributed. Father Wirgiliusz Jarzyński and Father Józef Pleszczyński oversaw the construction.
Parafia Świętej Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus became a sanctuary on November 20, 2017. Archbishop Henryk F. Hoser recognized it.
The sanctuary features a chapel dedicated to Saint Teresa. Archbishop Henryk F. Hoser consecrated it on November 30, 2017. Bishop Romuald Kamiński consecrated the altar on May 30, 2019.
The parish lies between the Świder River and Górka Otwocka. Pine trees surround it creating a unique microclimate. Religious life began with a small wooden chapel. People came to admire Saint Teresa.
Kanonik Jan Majchrzycki initiated the cult of Saint Teresa. He lived in Świder from 1923. He created organizations for young women and men.
A statue of Saint Teresa stands here too. The Moisson family from France funded it. Władysław Jania created it.
Parafia Świętej Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus stands as a testament to faith. It embodies the spirit of community. The church is more than just a building. It is a spiritual home for many.