A new memorial in North Watford Cemetery to commemorate All Saints Day, an annual national holiday in Poland, has been installed...
This is thanks to partnership work between the Watford Polish Saturday School, PCM Local Polish Catholic Mission and Watford Borough Council.
The initiative named ‘Nasi Bliscy Bliżej Nas’ which translates ‘Our Loved Ones Closer to Us’, aims to provide a place for the local Polish community to honour their loved ones who have passed away, fostering a sense of connection and belonging in their new home.
All Saints Day held yearly every 1 November holds profound significance in Polish tradition, as it is a day when Poles visit the graves of their family and friends to light lanterns in their memory, offer prayers, and share memories.
For many Polish migrants residing in Watford, the journey back to Poland for this important day can be both logistically challenging and costly. The installation of this memorial will create a meaningful space for the community to come together and celebrate their cherished memories.
The project was initiated by Mr. Tomasz Płoński, a former teacher of Watford Polish Saturday School, who remains actively involved in the endeavour. The community's commitment to this cause was exemplified through two successful fundraisers.
In October 2022, the pupils of Watford Polish Saturday School, along with their parents and parishioners of the Polish Catholic Church in Watford, raised an impressive £590. Building on this momentum, a second fundraiser in June 2023, featuring a cake and book sale, raised an additional £1,045.85 towards the project. The outstanding amount of £500 will be raised by the schools pupils during the autumn term.
Aga Giemza, from Watford Polish Saturday School, said: “We deeply value All Saints Day, a cherished tradition from our homeland. It's a day of heartfelt remembrance for our departed loved ones. This memorial project is our way of creating a special place in Watford, our new home, where we can come together to honour and celebrate their lives.
“It's a symbol of unity and a testament to our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage. With this memorial, we bridge the gap between our past and our future, under the embrace of Watford's warm community.”
Deputy Mayor of Watford Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Community, Aga Dychton, who is of Polish heritage, was involved in the memorial project and helped start the Saturday School, added: “In the spirit of 'Nasi Bliscy Bliżej Nas,' we've united to honour our loved ones and bring cherished memories closer in Watford. This memorial will be a symbol of unity and remembrance for our local Polish community, and it represents the spirit of togetherness that defines Watford.
“With the Watford Polish Saturday School, PCM Local Polish Catholic Mission, and particularly the incredible work of Tomasz Płoński, we've created a place for reflection and connection. This memorial stands as a testament to our community's strength and resilience, and I’m proud to be part of it as a member of the council.”
Elected Mayor of Watford Borough Council, Peter Taylor said: “This collaborative effort is a testament to the unity and strength of our diverse community. It is heartwarming to see the commitment of our Polish residents in preserving their cultural traditions while embracing Watford as their new home.”
