Kamianyi Brid is a urban-type settlement in the Dovbysh hromada of the Zviahel Raion, Zhytomyr Oblast (until 2024, an urban-type settlement), distinguished by a prominent Roman Catholic community. Its history is closely connected with Polish settlers, and Catholic traditions remain alive here to this day.
General data about Kamianyi Brid
- Location: Zviahel Raion, Zhytomyr Oblast (formerly Baranivka Raion), on the Nemylyanka River.
- Population: 2,670 people according to the 2001 census.
- History: traditionally, the founding of the settlement is associated with 1862, when Polish colonists—gentry and peasants—resettled here after the abolition of serfdom; according to another version, the settlement arose as early as the first half of the 19th century.
- Industry: since the mid-1860s, a well-known faience (later porcelain) factory operated here.
Such ethnic and cultural origin explains the presence and influence of the Catholic faith among local residents.
Roman Catholic Parish of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus
In Kamianyi Brid, the Roman Catholic Parish of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus operates, which is part of the Kyiv-Zhytomyr Diocese.
History of the parish
- At the beginning of the 20th century, there was a wooden chapel in the settlement that served as the center of religious life for local Roman Catholics.
- In the 1930s it was destroyed; after the Second World War, the community had a shrine again, but in 1958 it was closed due to Soviet persecutions.
- The revival of the parish became possible already in independent Ukraine: the first services after the restoration were held on September 30, 1990 by the Pallottine fathers.
- In 1991, the newly built church was consecrated by Bishop Jan Purwiński.
Modern life of the parish
The Parish of Saint Thérèse operates continuously: Sunday and festive services, catechesis, and pastoral meetings take place here.
Why Kamianyi Brid is important for Roman Catholics of Ukraine
Zhytomyr Oblast as a whole has a significant share of Roman Catholics. Studies show that it was here that Catholic communities during the Soviet period were among the most numerous among Ukrainian regions.
Kamianyi Brid is an example of the preservation of the religious identity of a small community in the conditions of a century of changes and trials—from persecutions to revival in independent Ukraine.
Notable Catholic landmarks of Zhytomyr Oblast
In addition to the parish in Kamianyi Brid, there are other landmarks of Catholic heritage in Zhytomyr Oblast:
- Cathedral of Saint Sophia in Zhytomyr with a history dating back to the 18th century;
- Church of Saint Barbara in Berdychiv, one of the important centers of Catholic life in the city.
Nearby, in the village of Lebedivka, the wooden Church of Saint Stanislaus has been preserved.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there many Roman Catholics in Kamianyi Brid?
Due to the resettlement of Polish colonists here in the 19th century, who brought the Catholic faith and culture with them.
When was the Roman Catholic parish in Kamianyi Brid founded?
The modern parish resumed its activity in 1990, although Catholic traditions in the settlement are much older.
Is the church active now?
Yes, the Parish of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus is operating and holds services.
What is the role of the church in the life of the community?
The church is a center of spiritual life, a place for meetings, religious holidays, and mutual support.
Photos by Roman Malenkov, Serhii Shcherbiy.
