Born in Lithuania, raised in Latvia! Despite difficulties, she survived two wars and the times of Soviet persecution. The cornerstone of the church was laid on May 9, 1865. At that time, it was the territory of the Kaunas Governorate of the Russian Empire.
The local homeowners built their church with their own efforts. Almost half of the money needed for the construction of the church and the installation of its equipment was donated by the Budberga congregation itself, and by the owners of the surrounding estates. Donations were also received from Lutheran congregations in Jelgava, Biržai, Tartu, St. Petersburg, and Germany. Among the donors were the Gustav Adolf Society (in Germany), Prussian King Wilhelm, and Hanoverian King Georg. Baron von Budberg sold bricks and tiles for the church's construction with a 20% discount. The first service in the still unfinished church took place on December 11, 1866.
After the establishment of the independent Latvian state in 1918, the church was located in Lithuanian territory. In 1921, Latvia took over this territory, as well as Aknīste and Ukri parish, from Lithuania in exchange for Palanga and Šventoji.
During World War II, the church tower's spire was destroyed, and Russian soldiers devastated the organ built by August Martin. Both the organ and the church tower's spire have been restored with God's blessing, thanks to donors and the congregation's enthusiasm. The church has the status of a cultural-historical monument.
St. Paul's Budberga Lutheran Church has never been closed for services and is still active. Services are held on the third Sunday of each month at 3:00 PM. Services do not take place from Christmas to Easter.
St. Paul's Budberga Lutheran Church celebrated its 160th anniversary on May 24, 2025.
Remembrance also holds special significance here – in the church garden, there is a place associated with those who were exiled, and trees that silently tell the story of those who were taken away but are not forgotten.
Your donation is not just funding – it is an investment in a place that has a soul. Every euro helps to restore and preserve the Budberga church step by step for future generations.
