Picture a time long before the blocks surrounding us rose toward the sky. That’s when the story of Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina began. This church stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. Its journey from conception to consecration is truly remarkable.
In 1944, a new parish was established here. Father Stefan Mihail was appointed as the first priest. The parish lacked a proper church. Services were held in a makeshift chapel. Father Mihail initiated efforts to construct a new church.
In 1946, the cornerstone was laid for Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina. Sadly, construction was halted just two years later. The newly installed communist regime intervened. The building permit was revoked.
Imagine the disappointment and uncertainty of those times. Yet, the dream of a dedicated church endured. After many struggles, a new construction permit was finally approved in 1968. This was largely because the old chapel on Colentina Road was to be demolished. Its removal was necessary for the systematization of the boulevard.
Construction of Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina restarted in the spring of 1969. Work progressed quickly. In 1968, Father Cristescu Mihail joined the parish as a second priest. Father Stefan Mihail passed away in 1979. Father Cristescu Mihail continued the work alone.
Finally, on January 17, 1991, a momentous day arrived. The new church was consecrated. The parish celebrated its patron saint. Saint Antonie the Great was honored. Patriarch Teoctist officiated. A select group of priests and deacons assisted.
The architectural design was a collaborative effort. Architects Dumitru Ionescu-Berechet and Gheorghe Naumescu worked with engineer Luigi Corra. Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina is built of brick and reinforced concrete. It features a rectangular plan. An apse faces east. The architecture blends Byzantine forms. Local Romanian elements add unique character.
The interior of Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina is adorned with oil paintings. Gheorghe Busuioc was the artist. Construction, finishing, painting, and interior furnishings relied solely on donations from believers. No state aid was received.
Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina is relatively new. It sits among apartment buildings and houses. The parish owns no properties, land, a parish house, a cemetery, or other heritage assets. Despite these limitations, the church thrives as a center of faith and community.
Today, Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina offers more than just religious services. Catechetical talks are held on Tuesdays after the Holy Unction. Priests and believers engage in discussions. Legal assistance is also available. The church has a small library. Theological books can be borrowed.
The church is active in social welfare. A social assistance program exists. It is organized by a team of doctors and medical assistants. The program provides specialized medical consultations. Partnerships with Colentina Grozovici Hospital and the “Trei Scaune” dispensary enhance its reach. The program identifies beneficiaries through social investigation. It prioritizes disadvantaged families. It also helps people without access to medical services.
Biserica Sfântul Antonie – Colentina stands as a symbol of faith. It represents community spirit and the enduring power of dreams. Remember the dedication and perseverance that brought this sacred place to life.