Kościół pw. Matki Bożej Królowej Aniołów

Did you know that a church can rise from a former military airfield? Here, before the Kościół pw. Matki Bożej Królowej Aniołów graced this spot, the roar of aircraft filled the air. This very ground was part of a Soviet-era airfield. Imagine a bustling Sunday morning, not with churchgoers, but with cars. A car market thrived here before streets and addresses even existed. The vision for a spiritual center took root in 1981. Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, the Primate of the Millennium, tasked Father Józef Żak with establishing a pastoral center on Bemowo Lotnisko. This land belonged to St. Joseph’s Parish on Kole, led by Father Leopold Bogdan Sotkiewicz. He generously offered a portion of his parish’s territory for the new church. On September 5, 1982, a simple cross and a temporary chapel marked the beginning. Bishop Jerzy Modzelewski celebrated the first mass. The first proper chapel, built in 1983, sheltered parishioners until 1998. Construction of the Kościół pw. Matki Bożej Królowej Aniołów began in 1984. Years later, on December 9, 1996, Cardinal Józef Glemp consecrated the completed church. The parish officially came into being on March 1, 1988, by decree of the Primate. Just three years later, Father Jan Chrapek, Superior General of the Congregation of St. Michael the Archangel, established a religious house here. Kościół pw. Matki Bożej Królowej Aniołów isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant community hub. In 1993, the “Przystań u Michała” center opened its doors, offering therapy rooms, aerobics, and a gym. That same year, the “Michael” Educational and Prevention Center was established. This center has provided and continues to offer numerous educational and support programs. Then in 1996, “Chatka Michatka” Oratory was created. This provided daily assistance to children and youth. The parish continues to grow and adapt, adding a youth center and even a climbing wall. The church has also been a place of solace in times of national mourning. Following the death of Pope John Paul II, both the church and the square in front of his monument became places of prayer and remembrance. In May 2013, the church celebrated its 25th anniversary with Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz consecrating the altar wall adorned with figures of Mary and angels. This artwork was created by Professor Wincenty Kućma. Kościół pw. Matki Bożej Królowej Aniołów is more than bricks and mortar. It is a testament to faith, community, and the enduring spirit of Bemowo.