Catholic

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Founded in 1931 by Polish Americans, the St. Valentine’s Polish National Catholic Church is a parish in Northampton, Massachusetts and a member of the Polish National Catholic Church. Following the Old Catholic movement, it is separate from the Roman Catholic Church, as it differs theologically by embracing different positions. The nave, which houses up to 500 parishioners, has a triple barrel-vaulted ceiling with the center vault depicting simple ornamental motifs and Jesus Christ ascending to heaven. On the arch above the altar is the Church’s symbol embodying its principles, which consists of the Book (representing the Word of God), the sun (the sign of religious freedom and fervor), the cross (the mark of suffering and consecration for others) and the palm (symbol of peace) along with the words, Prawda, Praca, Walka (English translation: Truth, Work, Struggle) indicating how these principles are to be incorporated into the routines of daily life.

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With roots dating back to 1868, St. Joseph the Worker Shrine, which opened in 1956, was originally established to serve the spiritual needs of Lowell’s French Canadian working class population. A focal point within the interior is the St. Joseph Stained Glass Window series, which celebrates in-part, Jesus’s legal father, the patron saint of workers. Stained glass panels also found within the sanctuary acknowledge the various trades and professions that have contributed to the development of Lowell. Originally built for the Unitarian Society in 1850, the church’s structure has gone through a series of transformations to accommodate up to 550 worshippers at a given time. Today, the church seeks to be a haven for all.