St. George’s Church, Kairiai
Šiaulių apskritis
St. George’s Church in Kairiai, located in Šiauliai County, Lithuania, is a Roman Catholic church with a rich history tied to the region's turbulent past. Originally constructed by the Russian Imperial Army around 1908–1909 as an Orthodox church for the military garrison, it was dedicated to Saint Nicholas or Saint George, with some sources favoring the latter. After World War I and the withdrawal of Russian forces, the church was repurposed and consecrated as a Roman Catholic church in 1919. The early years were marked by efforts to equip the church with necessary liturgical items through donations from local parishioners and Lithuanian Americans. The building suffered fire damage in 1976 but was promptly restored. Today, it remains a vital religious site hosting regular services and community events, symbolizing the resilience and faith of the local population.
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Astuce: Visitors are encouraged to attend Sunday Mass at 12:00 PM to experience the church’s spiritual atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the annual St. Roch’s feast on August 19, which features special celebrations. It is advisable to check the church’s official website or contact them by phone for the latest event schedules and any special services. Donations and support from parishioners continue to play a role in maintaining the church, reflecting its community-centered nature.
Faits intéressants
- •The church was originally built as an Orthodox military church for the Russian Imperial Army garrison in Šiauliai.
- •Its dedication shifted from Saint Nicholas to Saint George when it became a Roman Catholic church.
- •The church was used as a warehouse by German forces during World War I after the Russian army withdrew.
- •The building suffered a fire in 1976 but was repaired quickly, preserving its altars and main tower.
Histoire
The church was originally built by the Russian Imperial Army between 1907 and 1909 as an Orthodox military church near the Šiauliai railway station.
It was consecrated in 1908 or 1909 under the name of Saint Nicholas or Saint George.
After the Russian army withdrew during World War I, the building was closed and later used as a warehouse by German forces.
In 1919, the church was transferred to the Lithuanian Roman Catholic community and consecrated as St.
George’s Church.
It faced challenges in its early years, including a lack of liturgical items, which were gradually acquired through donations.
The church suffered a fire in 1976 but was restored the following year, preserving its historical and religious significance.
Contact
Téléphone: (0-41) 374748