History of St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church

The history of St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church in St. Paul began about the year 1910. Like other ethnic immigrant groups, Romanians arrived in a land of strange customs and new life styles.

On May 18, 1913, less than three years after its formation, the benefit society "Augustina" voted to create a parish with the name "Biserica Greco-Orientala Orthodoxa Romana Sfanta Maria," and the concept of a St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church of Saint Paul, Minnesota was started.

By November 9, 1913, the hard working committee had transacted for land on which to build a church, and following June 14, 1914, the cornerstone was laid. The blessing of the new church took place on October 15, 1914.

Originally, the church was blessed by Father Podea. However, it was not officially consecrated until 1935 by the first Bishop of Romania, His Grace Policarp Morusca. As part of the consecration service, religious relics and earth from Romania were installed in part of the Holy Altar table.

During all the years the constant activity and growth of the parish can be attributed to the spirit and deep religious convictions of the people of the church. The accomplishments of a small number of people (the parish probably never exceeded 150) are a constant reminder of how God works His Will through the faithful. It is our hope that good spirit will continue to dominate the hearts of the church members in the future and perpetrate and improve their Orthodox Faith.

During 85 years of existence, the parish has been served by 28 priests.

Services are held in English and Romanian. All people of the Orthodox Faith are wholeheartedly welcome to attend.