Divine Mercy Parish in Otwock

The Parish of Divine Mercy in Otwock-Ługi was established on August 16, 1989, when the Primate of Poland, Cardinal Józef Glemp, erected the new parish from part of the territory of the Parish of Our Lady Queen of Poland in Otwock-Kresy. The history of the parish begins with the efforts of Father Włodzimierz Jabłonowski, pastor of the Parish of Our Lady Queen of Poland, who initiated the creation of a pastoral center in 1986. The first chapel, dedicated to Blessed Honorat Koźmiński, was established in a residential block on Berlinga Street and was solemnly consecrated on December 21, 1988, by Bishop Stanisław Kędziora. Unfortunately, shortly after this event, the chapel was burned down by unknown perpetrators, but this did not break the spirit of the parishioners. Their determination led to the successful rebuilding of the chapel, and the new chapel was consecrated on January 12, 1989. In the following years, the construction of the church continued, with the foundation level completed in 1991. The cornerstone was laid on June 7, 1992, and the church was consecrated on October 15, 2000, during the Great Jubilee of Christianity. The church features a marble altar, stained glass windows, and side altars with mosaics. Additionally, in 1996, the bell tower was enriched with three bells, which drew the attention of the community and strengthened its religious identity. From 1997 to 2006, Father Wojciech Lemański oversaw the finishing works of the church, taking care of the details of its architectural interior. The parish, an important focal point for the residents of Otwock and Karczew, engages its parishioners in various activities, including organizing pilgrimages and trips for children. Currently, the parish is led by Father Dariusz Bala, whose goal is to continue the traditions and spiritual development of the community. In June 2014, the parish celebrated its 25th anniversary, highlighting its long and rich history within the Warsaw Archdiocese. The Parish of Divine Mercy is thus an important landmark in Otwock, combining both architectural and cultural heritage of the local community.