In Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania, the time-honored custom of making pierogies holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Rooted in Eastern European immigrant traditions, pierogi-making has transcended generations, becoming a cherished family and community activity that brings people together over good food and great company.
For many families, pierogies are more than just dumplings—they’re a symbol of heritage. Passed down through recipes scribbled on worn paper or taught by hand in warm kitchens, these delightful potato-filled dough pockets have a way of connecting the past with the present. Traditional fillings like potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or even sweet varieties with fruit remind us of the culinary creativity brought to the region by Polish, Ukrainian, and Slovak immigrants.
In Berks County, the tradition is not just limited to family gatherings. Churches like St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Reading often hold pierogi sales as a way to fundraise and foster community spirit. At St. Mary’s, pierogi-making is a significant part of Lenten preparations, combining food with faith. Using simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt, volunteers work together to bring this tradition to life.
Below: St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Reading.
The process of making pierogi—from rolling and cutting the dough, to adding fillings, sealing the edges, and cooking them in boiling water—has been part of the church’s culture for multiple generations, with both younger and older parishioners coming together to keep the tradition alive.
Each Lent, St. Mary’s parish prepares vast quantities of pierogi, using hundreds of pounds of flour, potatoes, sauerkraut, and cheese. These are sold every Friday leading up to Holy Week, offering families a meat-free meal option during this time of fasting and reflection. The sales not only support the parish financially but also reinforce cultural traditions and bring the community together.
Pierogies have become a beloved symbol of the region’s rich immigrant heritage. Whether enjoyed at a family table, bought at a church fundraiser, or celebrated at local cultural events, these humble dumplings remain a vital part of the community’s identity in Reading and Berks County.
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