On Saturday, November 9, the Orthodox Parish of the Protection of the Mother of God in Komańcza celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Church of Poland’s autocephaly, coinciding with the feast of Saint Nestor the Chronicler.
The Archbishop of Przemyśl was welcomed at the entrance of the parish church by children, local government officials, as well as parish council members and Archpriest Michał Konyk. During the Divine Liturgy, thanksgiving prayers were offered in honor of the great jubilee of autocephaly and the 1,100-year history of Orthodoxy in the Podkarpacie region. In addition to Orthodox faithful, the service was attended by representatives from the Roman Catholic Church, including priests and nuns, local government officials, and representatives from various cultural and community organizations.
At the conclusion of the Liturgy, a cross and obelisk commemorating the anniversary were blessed. The event also featured an exhibition titled “100 Years of Autocephaly of the Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church.”
In his address, Archbishop Paisjusz highlighted the significance of the Orthodox Church in Poland’s history, tracing its roots back to the mission of Saints Cyril and Methodius. The Archbishop thanked Fr. Michał Konyk for revitalizing parish life in Komańcza and all the clergy and guests for their presence, noting that the gathering bore witness to the strength of Christian faith and love.
In recognition of their contributions to the Church in this anniversary year, the Medal of Saint Maksym Gorlicki was awarded to Fr. Michał Konyk, Jan Harhaj, and Jan Łajkosz. Additionally, the Mayor of Komańcza, Dr. Roman Bzdyk, received a letter of blessing for his support of the parish.
The celebration concluded with a meal prepared by parishioners, bringing together clergy, officials, and faithful in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
Source: Church of Poland / Written by Archpriest Julian Felenczak / Photos by Dymitr Konyk
