St. Mary of Celle Church
1428 S. Wesley Ave., Berwyn

All that is needed here are palm trees. The exterior of this charming Spanish Mission-style church looks like it belongs in California.

Designed by architects Meyer & Cook and costing $50,000 in 1931, it has been carefully restored in a renovation completed last year. Recently discovered original tiles and decorative wood elements have been used in a new baptismal font and shrine area as well as to enhance the altar of sacrifice.

Through planning and providence, the entire church and nearby washrooms are now handicapped-accessible. A ramp to the sanctuary, hearing devices, large-print hymnals and music aids also helped earn St. Mary of Celle the Pathways Foundation 2002 Open Hearts Award.

Originally a Czech parish, it now celebrates its diversity at Masses in both English and Spanish. Cardinal George was here Nov. 3 to mark the one-year anniversary of the church’s 2001 rededication.

Pastor: Father Richard Prendergast
Masses: Saturdays 5:30 p.m./ Sundays 8:30 and 10 a.m.; (11:30 a.m. Spanish)
Seating capacity: 680
Phone: (708) 788-0876
Parish founded: 1909