Varputėnų Šv. Antano Paduviečio bažnyčia

The Church of St Anthony of Padua in Varputėnai is a wooden place of worship standing in the charming village of Varputėnai, next to the Užventis–Šaukėnai–Kuršėnai road. This church is one of the few whose construction history goes back to the 18th century. It was built around 1787, but its main builder is considered to be Motiejus Jelenskis, the owner of Varputėnai manor, who completed the work in 1792.

The Varputėnai church long belonged to the Kelmė parish, and later became a filial church of the Šaukėnai parish. This shows that this place of worship was important not only to the local community but also to the wider region.

Architecturally, the Varputėnai church is of rectangular plan without a tower, with a side sacristy. Inside it has three altars, which give the interior space particular sacredness and beauty. A wooden bell tower can also be found in the church's churchyard, further emphasising the ancient and authentic character of this ensemble.

An interesting detail is that the church was oriented so that the high altar could be seen through a window of the manor house. This was done so that the manor owners would not have to go to church every day and could pray even while at home. This is a fine example of how architecture can be adapted to personal needs and ways of life.

The Church of St Anthony of Padua in Varputėnai is not merely a place of prayer – it is also a cultural and historical monument, bearing witness to the traditions, architectural styles and history of the local community of its time. Today it is important both to the faithful and to those interested in Lithuanian history and architecture.