Following a fire that damaged a historic cross in Warsaw, the Civic Coalition (KO) condemned a former member’s online comment calling the scene “a beautiful sight.”
Cross Fire in Warsaw Sparks Controversy
A fire broke out on Good Friday before the Church of St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe on Rzymowskiego Street in Warsaw, damaging a metal and wood cross. The cross commemorated a mass celebrated by Pope John Paul II on Victory Square (now Piłsudski Square) on June 2, 1979, during his first pilgrimage to Poland.
Authorities believe the fire was likely caused by candles, and currently rule out arson.
Radna’s Comment Draws Outrage
The incident prompted numerous reactions on social media. Monika Kirschenstein, a council member from Starogard, commented “Piękny widok” (Beautiful sight) on a photo of the burning cross.
Her post sparked widespread condemnation, particularly from right-wing politicians.
Civic Coalition Condemns Post, Confirms Membership Status
Civic Coalition officials in Starogard stated they “strongly distance themselves from the scandalous post” by Kirschenstein, calling it “an unacceptable provocation and a lack of respect for the religious feelings of residents.”
They clarified that Kirschenstein had been suspended and subsequently resigned from the Civic Coalition Club on August 19, 2025, and was also removed from membership in the Civic Platform.
Call for Apology and Removal of Post
The party officials emphasized that Kirschenstein’s actions do not reflect the values of the Civic Coalition, and called for the post to be removed and an apology issued.
They stated that the residents of Starogard deserve respect and unity.
Parish Assures Reconstruction
The parish priest of St. Maximilian Kolbe, Fr. Andrzej Krzesiński, assured that the cross will be rebuilt. The Warsaw Archdiocese confirmed that the fire would not affect the schedule of Triduum Paschal services.
Fire Response and Damage Assessment
The Warsaw Archdiocese reported that the fire was noticed by a parishioner. The fire department arrived within approximately eight minutes.
The fire was extinguished quickly and professionally, and the metal structure of the cross was not destroyed.
