St. James, “on a hill overlooking the quiet valley below,” is unique in many ways.

It is said to be the site of a French fort where Father Jacques Marquette celebrated Mass in 1673.

Early tombstones in its parish cemetery mark the mortal remains of Irish workers who dug the Illinois & Michigan Canal and worshipped in its first (log cabin) church.

Today’s lovely little limestone edifice was dedicated by Bishop James van de Velde in 1853 after settlers hauled stones for six long years from nearby quarries to the top of the hill.

Its stained glass windows like “the eye of God” (above) were installed in the late 1890s, with the magnificent ceiling of Alaska Sirca spruce and handcarved wood paneling.

Surrounded by forest preserves, with a wrought iron entrance gate that graced the Western Electric Hawthorn Plant in 1903, outdoor stations of the cross, shrines, and even golf carts to chauffeur guests from the parking lot uphill to weekend Masses—St. James is matchless.

Today’s parishioners call it “the jewel of the archdiocese.” Come see for yourself, but phone first for directions.

Pastor: Father Edwin V. Bohula
Masses: Saturdays 5:30 p.m./ Sundays 8:30, 10, 11:30 a.m.
Parish founded: 1833
Seating capacity: 250
Phone: (630) 257-7000

Photo by David V. Kamba