When ordinary people visit Poland’s forests, they are most afraid of encountering a big mammal – a wolf, boar, or bear. But the greatest dangers are actually posed by more inconspicuous animals: ticks and snakes.

Przeciętny Kowalski, wchodząc do lasu, boi się spotkania z dużymi ssakami: wilkami, dzikami czy niedźwiedziem, ale największym zagrożeniem są dla nas niepozorne stawonogi – kleszcze.

This article discusses the use of prefabricated concrete components in the work of the Polish architect Władysław Pienkowski (1907–1991), which are particularly representative of the author’s signature approach to contemporary sacred architecture. The evolution of the prefabricated components used and their properties are presented through the example of 8 churches of his design. They have been analysed in terms of their individual character, the potential to use similar components in a variety of designs and in terms of their aesthetic value. Contemporary and archived photographs, as well as design drawings from the archives of the architect’s family have been used to illustrate the examples. The presented examples prove that the use of prefabricated elements offers a wide range of options in the creation of architecture. Their repetitive nature, when skilfully used, becomes an asset rather than a hindrance in the design of diverse buildings. Drawing attention to this aspect can not only inspire the creation of new buildings, but also contribute to the revitalisation of existing architectural structures.