St. Bartholomew the Apostle Parish in Leszczyniec

The Parish of St. Bartholomew the Apostle in Leszczyniec, established on January 1, 1593, is a Roman Catholic community within the Kamienna Góra West Deanery of the Legnica Diocese. It includes the villages of Leszczyniec, Ogorzelec, and Szarocin. The parish has two churches: the old Catholic church of St. Bartholomew from 1593 and a former Evangelical church built between 1751 and 1754, which was taken over by Catholics after World War II. The history of the parish dates back to at least the 14th century, and its territory changed after 1945 when the parish boundaries were redrawn, and some localities, such as Stara Białka, were incorporated into other parishes. During this period, the parish underwent various changes in its pastoral organization, related to the influx of faithful, which increased the number of Catholics in the region. The church in Leszczyniec served as the central place of worship in the parish, gathering believers not only from Leszczyniec but also from neighboring villages. The establishment of new communities, such as the Living Rosary Group and the Liturgical Altar Service, also contributed to the parish's development. Throughout its history, the parish has had various pastors, including Fr. Walerian Wojarski, who served for 26 years, and the current pastor, Fr. Jan Daniel. The architecture of the churches, historical settlement contexts, and pastoral activities in the region make Leszczyniec an important religious and cultural site. Vocations originating from this parish, such as Fr. Bronisław Piśnicki and religious sisters, are also noteworthy. Situated in the picturesque surroundings of the Kamienna Góra Valley, the parish is a vital part of the local community's life, blending Catholic traditions with the region's history.