Our Community
Mission History
In January 1981, as a result of the split of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, the Diocese of San Jose was created. In spite of this fact, the Polish American community living in Santa Clara County was still part of the St. Adalbert Polish Mission in San Francisco.
The turning point in the growth of the community was the purchase of land in San Jose, with the goal of building the religious and cultural center in the future. The legal ownership of the land was granted to the Society of Christ for Polonia, founded in Poland in 1932 by Cardinal August Hlond. The Society of Christ is dedicated to working within communities of Polish immigrants and their descendants around the world. In October 1986, the Provincial of the Society of Christ nominated, with the permission of the Bishop of the San Jose Diocese, one of the priests from the Society of Christ, as the pastor of the Polish Mission in San Jose. The Mission received the name of St. Brother Albert Chmielowski, a Polish Saint canonized in 1989 by Pope John Paul II. This is the first parish in the United States that chose St. Brother Albert Chmielowski as its patron.
The ground breaking ceremony and commencing the construction in March 1997 was another milestone in the Mission’s history. The project was completed in April 1998. Both the architect, S. Ostoya, and the general contractor, A. Zagata, are of Polish origin.
Today, the Mission has grown. The ministry is led by the priests from the Society of Christ. The following groups are part of our Parish live - the Rosary groups, the Apostolate of St. Brother Albert, the prayer group, lectors and altar service. The Mission also organizes cultural events, weekly social coffee hours after the Mass, dances, and other celebrations.
Polish Saturday School
The school welcomes around 90 students, from preschool to high school, divided into eight age groups. Classes meet every other Saturday, helping children grow academically while staying connected to their Polish roots. Beyond the classroom, we offer so much more. Students can take part in Scout meetings and join the lively “Sokoły” Ensemble, where they experience the joy of Polish folk dance and singing in a fun, supportive atmosphere.
A team of 11 dedicated teachers fosters curiosity and cultural pride in each student. The curriculum focuses on Polish language both spoken and written and introduces students to Polish history, geography, culture, and key national figures. Traditions are central to school life. In partnership with parents, we host memorable events such as the St. Nicholas visit, Back-to-School Picnic, and patriotic holidays like Independence Day and May 3rd Constitution Day. We also celebrate Mother’s and Father’s Day, and Children’s Day, which marks the school year’s end. Annual highlights include the Talent Contest open to students, Scouts, and Polish youth from St. Albert Chmielowski Parish; and the beloved Nativity Play, performed during the parish’s Christmas Eve celebration. With engaging classes, cultural events, and a strong sense of community, Polish Saturday School offers children a lasting connection to the language, traditions, and heritage of Poland, treasures passed down through generations.
Sokoły Ensemble
Founded in April 2015 under the Łowiczanie Polish Folk Dance Ensemble, Sokoły (“Falcons”) was co-created by Gosia Wojciechowska and Piotr Irby. The group continues to thrive thanks to Kasia Hudack, its talented music director and vocal instructor. Sokoły welcomes children ages 5 and up. Its mission is to introduce youth to Polish folk traditions and inspire pride in their heritage. Performers wear authentic, richly ornamented national and regional costumes. Since last year, students of the Polish School in San Jose have had the opportunity to learn traditional Polish songs and dances.
Polish Scouting Organization – San Jose Branch
The Mazowsze (girls) and Kraków (boys) troops have been active in California since 1975. During meetings, children earn badges, explore Polish history and culture, develop skills, build friendships, and improve their Polish language. The first meeting of the new school year is on September 19, 2026, right after Polish School, from 12:45–2:30 PM.
Czuwaj!
