Picture this a bustling New Brighton neighborhood in 1921. A group of Polish Americans shared a fervent dream. They longed for a church. A place to worship in their native tongue. A sanctuary where their children could learn about Polish Catholic traditions. This dream became the Saint Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Church.
The Saint Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Church stands as a testament to unwavering faith and community spirit. Its story begins with persistent petitions. The Archdiocese initially resisted the idea of another parish. However the Polish-American community’s determination prevailed. Archbishop Patrick J Hayes finally granted permission. On March 12 1923 Reverend John A Gloss was appointed pastor. He was tasked with building the church.
Construction began immediately. Parishioners worked tirelessly after long days. They dug the foundation laid the stone walls. They even built the concrete stairs. Masses were initially held at the nearby Church of the Assumption. Later they were celebrated under a tarpaulin in the church’s sub-basement. The cornerstone was laid on August 14 1923. On October 14 1924 Cardinal Hayes officially consecrated the new Saint Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Church. The dream had been realized. It was a blessed reality.
Father Gloss didn’t just build a church. He built a community. He established numerous organizations. These included the Sacred Heart League the St Stanislaus Kostka Society. He also founded the St Cecilia Choir the Children of Mary Sodality and the Holy Name Society. He even inspired six of his altar boys to enter the priesthood. These included Monsignor John Karpinski Reverend Chester Mieczkowski and Monsignor Ralph Pakulniewicz among others. In 1929 he established a parochial school staffed by the Sisters of the Resurrection. Sadly economic hardship forced the school to close in 1939.
Father Gloss guided his flock through the Depression and World War II. Sadly eight young men from the parish died in the war. Father Gloss passed away in 1945 at the age of 55. His legacy however continued to thrive. The Saint Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Church became a beacon of hope and resilience. Its history is filled with stories of perseverance faith and community. It is a story that continues to unfold. A story worthy of experiencing first-hand.