Father Henry Smolinski, formerly administrator of the Polish National Catholic Church of St. John the Baptizer, 23 Golway St., Manchester, Connecticut was installed as the parish’s Pastor on Saturday, June 22. Father Henry was installed by the Very Rev. Joseph Krusienski, Administrative Senior of the Southwest Seniorate of the Eastern Diocese of the Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC) and pastor of Holy Trinity Parish in Plantsville, Connecticut.

Clergy present for the installation and Holy Mass included the Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski Bishop Ordinary of the Eastern Diocese, Very Rev. Fryderyk Banas (Holy Cross Parish, Ware, MA), Rev. Dr. Z. Stanley Kaszubski (Pastor Emeritus of St. John’s and currently serving Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, New London, CT), Rev. Michael Gitner (St. Joseph’s Parish, Stratford, CT), and Rev. Adam Czarnecki (St. Valentine’s Parish, Northampton, MA). Several ecumenical guests from the area also attended including Rev. Michael Donnelly, of Compassionate Ministries in Andover, CT and Rev. Leo McIlrath, Chaplain of the Lutheran Rehabilitation Center in Sandy Hook, CT.

Saint John’s church was founded in 1928, and primarily served Polish immigrants. Today the church is is a reflection of our diverse community. Holy Mass is held at 9am each Sunday. All are welcome.