When you’re 100 years old you’ve seen your share of history. That’s where Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish is today. When it was formed in 1901 Teddy Roosevelt was president, ragtime jazz was born and Irish immigrants made this parish for English-speaking Catholics their home. The three-story edifice, in the McKinley Park area, was dedicated in 1902. The church interior, on the first floor, has simple lines, tastefully renovated. Wood from its vintage confessionals was used for its present altar of sacrifice, and original medallion-style stained glass windows flank the nave. A remodeled gym area on the upper floor provides a “Teen Reach” program of sports and tutoring after school. Centennial celebrations began on New Year’s Eve and will continue with a mission in March preached by former pastors; Founders’ Day in April honoring long-time parishioners; a Mass with Cardinal George on Sept. 9 and a dinner-dance on Oct. 7.

Pastor: Father James M. Hyland
Masses: Saturdays 5:30 p.m../ Sundays 7:30 & 10:30 a.m.; 9 a.m. in Spanish
Parish founded: 1901
Seating capacity: 400
Phone: (773) 523-3917
Photo by: Sandy Bertog