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

The Parish of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Kałuszyn boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. In 1447, Stanisław Kałuszyński built a wooden church dedicated to St. Stanisław the Bishop, which served as the precursor to the current temple. The parish was officially established in 1472 and, throughout its existence, has endured various hardships, including destruction by fires and wars, such as three battles during the November Uprising. Due to a growing congregation, which numbered around 5,300 by 1887, it was decided to construct a new brick church. Architect Józef Dziekoński designed the temple in the Vistula-Baltic style, and construction began in 1889, concluding in 1897. The church was blessed by Archbishop Wincenty Teofil Popiel in 1893 and consecrated in 1897. In the early 20th century, the building underwent its first renovations, necessary due to roof damage, among other issues. In 1972, the parish celebrated its 500th anniversary, an event honored by the Servant of God, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, who delivered the sermon. The parish's history also includes the dark period of World War II, when it witnessed the extermination of the local Jewish community, significantly impacting the area's demographics. In the 1950s, the church underwent a comprehensive renovation, and in 1994, construction began on a chapel in Nowe Groszki, which was consecrated in 1995. Over the years, the church has been enriched with valuable furnishings, including historic organs from 1901 and paintings by Michał Andriolli. The parish encompasses several localities, and its activities reflect significant cultural and social aspects of the region, serving as a vital center for the local Catholic community.