The History of our Polish Community in Luton/Dunstable

As well as the main towns of Luton and Dunstable, the boundaries of our community include several outlying towns and villages including Leighton Buzzard, St. Albans, Milton Keynes, Pitstone, Harpenden, Berkhamstead and London Conley. Currently we have approximately 520 members.

Now the community had a true base and evolved even more rapidly with a new-found momentum. New organisations were formed to care for the sick ,elderly and lonely. Committees arranged traditional, cultural and social events (with assistance from the Polish Saturday school), day trips, and dances. A youth club, choir, traditional Polish dance group "Aowiczanie" and Rosary Circle were started.

First Holy Communion in Dunstable Ks. prob. A. Michalowski i wikary B. Szykulski

With such fervish activity the years flew by and in 1978 we were celebrating our 25th anniversary. The community grew from strength to strength. Consecutive parish priests came and went, each contributing in his own way to the evolvement of the parish and community. Each and every one is fondly remembered. As the years went by, seasoned leaders and workers stepped down to make way for new, fresh blood full of ideas and enthusiasm to continue the good work. In 1993 we celebrated our 40th anniversary, and 25 years since the consecration of our church. With so many years behind us, so many important events and emotional moments. Our Saturday school is now attended by the third generation, learning the language, geography, history and traditions of our Country.

We sincerely hope that in a further 50 years time we will still be here in our little bit of Poland, because our children are our future ...

History