About the Church
The Church of Christ the King and St Teresa of the Child Jesus in Pavilnys, standing in the eastern part of Vilnius, in Aukštasis Pavilnys, is distinctive not only for its architecture but also for its rich history. It is the only wooden Catholic church in the city of Vilnius still in operation today, serving Lithuanian- and Polish-speaking parishioners.
The church was built in 1935 and was consecrated on 7 July of that year by Archbishop Romuald Jałbrzykowski. Its building material is wood, which gives the building a distinctive sense of cosiness and warmth, and also sets it apart from the other churches of Vilnius, which are mostly built of masonry or brick.
During the Second World War the church, like many other sacred sites, suffered considerable damage. After the war Father Konstantinas Molis took the initiative to renovate the church, seeking to restore its original beauty and grandeur. Unfortunately, the night of 18 February 1977 will be remembered for a sad event – the church was robbed. Despite this, the church survived and continues to serve the faithful.
Architecturally, the church is on a rectangular plan, single-towered, three-naved, with a porch and a small turret. The interior is notable for its delicate woodwork and religious motifs, which create a distinctive spiritual atmosphere.
This church is not only a centre of religious life but also an important cultural site, bringing the local community together. Its wooden walls and cosy interior invite visitors to experience moments of peace, and perhaps to reflect on the passage of time and resilience in the face of hardship. Although modest on the outside, this church conceals within it great spiritual worth and a living history, well worth discovering for everyone.
The church was built in 1935 and was consecrated on 7 July of that year by Archbishop Romuald Jałbrzykowski. Its building material is wood, which gives the building a distinctive sense of cosiness and warmth, and also sets it apart from the other churches of Vilnius, which are mostly built of masonry or brick.
During the Second World War the church, like many other sacred sites, suffered considerable damage. After the war Father Konstantinas Molis took the initiative to renovate the church, seeking to restore its original beauty and grandeur. Unfortunately, the night of 18 February 1977 will be remembered for a sad event – the church was robbed. Despite this, the church survived and continues to serve the faithful.
Architecturally, the church is on a rectangular plan, single-towered, three-naved, with a porch and a small turret. The interior is notable for its delicate woodwork and religious motifs, which create a distinctive spiritual atmosphere.
This church is not only a centre of religious life but also an important cultural site, bringing the local community together. Its wooden walls and cosy interior invite visitors to experience moments of peace, and perhaps to reflect on the passage of time and resilience in the face of hardship. Although modest on the outside, this church conceals within it great spiritual worth and a living history, well worth discovering for everyone.