Tadeusz Lesisz: soldier and architect

The most significant example of his work is the Church of Divine Mercy in Manchester, formerly owned by the Welsh Baptists. After the building was purchased by the Polish community in 1958, Lesisz oversaw its conversion, designing the entire interior and devising the concept for the stained-glass windows.

The parish’s website states that “he was able to conjure up the beauty of Poland within the walls of a Welsh Protestant church, showcasing its diverse regions – from the sea all the way to Lviv”. The church has become one of the most important centres of Polish community life in the city, and its décor serves as a memorial to the homeland and to those who lost their lives during the war.

Lesisz’s stained-glass windows combine simplicity of form with profound symbolism. They are dominated by cool blues and golden reflections of light, which bring to mind the sea and hope. Religious motifs intertwine with patriotic ones, creating a space for contemplation and reflection. The church’s interior also houses urns containing soil from European battlefields and many mementoes linked to Poland. It is a quiet tribute to Polish soldiers scattered across the globe.

Community work and the Katyn Memorial

Tadeusz Lesisz did not, however, limit himself to art alone. For many years, he was one of the leaders of the Polish community in Manchester, at that time the second largest in the United Kingdom. He organised national celebrations and ensured that traditions were passed on to younger generations of emigrants.

In 1990, he designed the Katyn Memorial at the South Manchester Cemetery. The intention was to create a place of remembrance which, for the first time, publicly highlighted Soviet responsibility for this horrific crime.

Recognition and honours

For his military, social and artistic activities, he was honoured with numerous awards, including the Knight’s and Officer’s Crosses of the Order of Polonia Restituta, the Gold Cross of Merit, the Cross of Valour, the Naval Medal (three times) and the Cross of Combat Merit of the Polish Armed Forces in the West.

He also received numerous British campaign medals, such as: the 1939–1945 Star, the Africa Star, the Atlantic Star, the Italy Star and the War Medal 1939–1945, as well as the Vatican decorations Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice and the Order of St Gregory the Great.

He died on 23 September 2009 in Manchester.