St. Stanislaus Parish

St. Stanislaus Parish in Nashua, New Hampshire, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Polish-American community in the region. Nestled in the heart of Nashua, this parish has been a beacon of faith and tradition since its establishment in the early 20th century. With its unique dedication to the Tridentine Mass and pre-Vatican II liturgical rites, St. Stanislaus Parish offers a glimpse into the timeless traditions of the Catholic Church.

The Origins of St. Stanislaus Parish

St. Stanislaus Parish was founded in 1908, primarily to serve the growing Polish immigrant community in Nashua. The early Polish immigrants, who arrived between 1854 and 1910, initially worshipped at the predominantly Irish-American Immaculate Conception Church. However, the desire for a parish that catered specifically to their cultural and linguistic needs led them to petition Bishop George Albert Guertin of Manchester. Their efforts bore fruit, and on April 19, 1908, Bishop Guertin approved the establishment of a new parish, dedicated to St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr.

Building a Community

The first pastor of the parish, Rev. John Mard, served only briefly due to health issues. His successor, Rev. Francis Taborski, played a crucial role in laying the foundation for the parish. Under his leadership, funds were raised to purchase property on Franklin Street, and by the end of 1909, construction of the church was completed. The pews for the new church were acquired from a nearby Free Will Baptist church, adding a touch of local history to the new parish.

Rev. Louis Wojtys, who served from 1910 to 1915, oversaw the dedication of the church and the construction of a hall for parish school and community events. In 1914, the parish acquired eight acres of land for a cemetery, further solidifying its presence in the community.

A Period of Growth and Change

In 1927, the Missionaries of La Salette took over the administration of the parish. Under the guidance of Fr. Joseph Piszczalka, M.S., who served until 1948, the parish underwent significant renovations. Electricity was installed in the church and hall, the mortgage was paid off, and work began on the parish cemetery. A parish school was established in 1929, and by the 25th anniversary in 1933, the parish had grown to include over 1,000 individuals and 190 families.

The arrival of the Felician Sisters in 1938 marked another milestone in the parish's history. These sisters provided religious instruction to the children and taught the Polish language, ensuring that the cultural heritage of the parishioners was preserved.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

World War II saw nearly 200 young people from the parish serve in the United States armed forces. The parish honored the eight who died in service by erecting a chapel and monument in the St. Stanislaus Cemetery in 1945.

In 2002, St. Stanislaus Parish was unified with St. Aloysius of Gonzaga Parish, and the sacramental records were transferred. Despite the merger, St. Stanislaus Church remained open as a Eucharistic adoration chapel, staffed by the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Word. A food bank was also established in the church basement, continuing the parish's tradition of serving the community.

A New Chapter

On May 20, 2016, Bishop Peter A. Libasci announced the establishment of a new St. Stanislaus Parish, dedicated to the Tridentine Mass. Entrusted to the care of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter, the new parish began its services in August 2016. This marked a new chapter in the parish's history, blending the old with the new and continuing its mission of faith and service.

Visiting St. Stanislaus Parish

Visitors to St. Stanislaus Parish can expect to be transported back in time with its dedication to traditional liturgical practices. The church, with its simple yet elegant architecture, stands as a symbol of the enduring faith of the Polish-American community. Whether attending a service or simply exploring the grounds, visitors will find a place steeped in history and tradition.

St. Stanislaus Parish is more than just a place of worship; it is a living testament to the resilience and dedication of its community. From its humble beginnings to its present-day dedication to traditional rites, the parish continues to be a beacon of faith and cultural heritage in Nashua.

In conclusion, a visit to St. Stanislaus Parish offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Polish-American community in Nashua. With its deep-rooted history and commitment to tradition, the parish stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community.