Standing before the Parafia św. Barnaby Apostoła in Warsaw-Zacisze, you feel a sense of peace amidst the bustling city. This parish, a beacon of faith in the heart of Warsaw, holds a story that began in the late 20th century, a time when the city was rebuilding itself after tumultuous years. The parish was established in 1997 on the territory previously belonging to the parish of the Holy Family. Its first temporary home was a wooden chapel, built within just three months, and blessed by Bishop Stanisław Kędziora.
This humble wooden structure served as a place of worship for the growing community. The parish was founded by Bishop Kazimierz Romaniuk, who had earlier blessed the site for the church’s construction. The parish grew rapidly, and the chapel was enlarged twice to accommodate the increasing number of faithful.
The journey of the Parafia św. Barnaby Apostoła continued as the dream of a permanent church took shape. In 1998, the parish began working on the project for a spacious church. The designs, by architect Adam Jarecki and structural engineer Tadeusz Koranowicz, were brought to life. The foundation stone was laid in 2002, marking a significant milestone in the parish’s journey.
Even as the church slowly rose from the ground, its progress was halted, due to a lack of necessary permits. The construction was suspended for a while before resuming. However, the church remains unfinished, and services still take place in the old chapel.
The Parafia św. Barnaby Apostoła offers more than just a place of worship. It is a haven of community, where people come together to share their faith, participate in liturgical celebrations, and find support. It is here, within these walls, where the story of faith and resilience continue to unfold, a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the power of belief.