The Parish of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Ćmielów

The Parish of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Ćmielów, located in the Diocese of Sandomierz, has its origins dating back to the 14th century, when the first church was built. The uniqueness of the parish is underscored by the lack of definitive historical sources, though there are indications suggesting it may have been established before 1326. The church and its associated cultural objects, such as figurines, crosses, and shrines, bear witness to the local piety and the history of the community. Among the most valuable elements are 19th-century shrines, a statue of St. Florian, and numerous other objects funded by the residents, highlighting their involvement in the religious life of their community. A notable aspect of the parish's history is the Katyń Cross, dedicated to the victims of the NKVD and the Smolensk air disaster, as well as the regular services held in the Długoszewski Chapel at the cemetery, which features preserved historic tombstones. The cemetery was established in 1807 on the initiative of Fr. Szymon Czerwiński and Jacek Małachowski, driven by sanitary considerations. The architecture of the Długoszewski Chapel is remarkable for its octagonal shape, neo-Gothic arcades, and dome, with interior paintings and a cross commemorating national history. The parish serves not only as a spiritual but also a cultural center for the faithful from surrounding areas, preserving local traditions and history.