Whispers of faith echo through the ages here at the Parafia sw Franciszka z Asyzu in Izabelin. This unassuming church holds a story far richer than its simple exterior suggests.
The Parafia sw Franciszka z Asyzu in Izabelin wasn’t built overnight. Its beginnings trace back to 1950. Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski the Primate of the Millennium had a vision. He wanted a new parish on the edge of Kampinos Forest. He asked a group of priests including Tadeusz and Aleksander Fedorowicz who would become its first pastor. Father Aleksander readily stepped forward.
Initially services were held in a chapel in Laski. Father Aleksander’s time in Laski profoundly influenced him. He was invited by Father Wladyslaw Kornilowicz spiritual director of the Laski center for the blind. The spiritual atmosphere and the surrounding Kampinos Forest inspired Father Aleksander. He saw this as a place to nurture a community in the spirit of St Francis of Assisi.
Sister Clara’s handwritten note in the parish chronicles offers a glimpse into the early days. It reveals that the community consisted of 3200 faithful from surrounding villages. Hornówka Sierakowa Pociechy Izabelina C Izabelina B Lasek the center for the blind in Laski and Truskawia were all part of this burgeoning parish.
The site for the church was carefully chosen for its central location. Truskawia the oldest village in the forest was given special consideration. The decree establishing the Parafia sw Franciszka z Asyzu was read during morning mass on July 8 1951. The new pastor was installed a week later on July 15. That very day the first child was baptized. The first wedding followed on August 5. The first death in the parish community was mourned shortly after.
The church’s construction involved considerable effort. Land was donated by Krętalewicz Widawski Krauzowa and Połciowa. Materials for the building were even transported from Wrocław in six railway cars. A twelve-ton truck journeyed between Izabelin and Warsaw for over 30 hours hauling construction materials.
Father Aleksander’s sermons emphasized the importance of sacrifice and love. He wanted a church built not for ostentatious glory but from the heart. Each brick each board would bear the mark of sacrifice and love. He envisioned a place of unity where forgiveness and love would flourish.
The church design was created by architect Barbara Brukalska who worked pro bono. The simple yet beautiful design reflected Father Aleksander’s vision. The cross stands central symbolizing God’s love. The sorrowful Mother Mary and St Francis flank it.
The building of the church was a labor of love and faith amidst difficult times. The dedication of the faithful persevered despite the challenges. Cardinal Wyszyński himself visited the construction site in April 1952.
The Parafia sw Franciszka z Asyzu in Izabelin is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to faith perseverance and the enduring spirit of a community built on love. It’s a story that continues to be written today. So as we stand here today we also stand in the presence of a living legacy. A legacy of faith community and enduring love.