Kaišiadorys diocese marks 100 years with conference and mass

The Kaišiadorys diocese celebrated its 100th anniversary on Saturday with a conference and a solemn mass at the Transfiguration of Christ Cathedral, LRT reports. The newly renovated cathedral, a major tourist attraction, served as the centerpiece of the centennial events.

Construction of the cathedral took over two decades, delayed by World War I and multiple design changes. According to guide Aurelijus Balčiūnas, German forces removed the original yellow bricks, leading builders to switch to red brick. The cathedral was finally consecrated in 1936 under its current name.

Balčiūnas noted that visitors often come to see the tomb of Bishop Teofilius Matulionis, a martyr and blessed figure buried there. “It would be strange if someone came to Kaišiadorys and didn’t want to see the cathedral,” he said.

The centennial celebrations took place in the recently restored cathedral, which reopened this spring after months of renovations. Improvements included new heating systems, repainted altars, updated lighting, and a new baptismal font and pulpit. Funding came from the local municipality, residents, businesses, and clergy.

General vicar Rolandas Biškauskas called the renovations a sign of community faith and unity. “It shows that people care—that God’s house should be in order,” he said. “This is for God’s glory, and it’s a joy to pray in such an environment.”

The diocese will continue its anniversary events in June, including church gatherings and a pilgrimage ride, “Be Blessed,” organized by a local motorcycle club.