Our Lady Gate of Heaven
2330 E. 99th Street, Chicago

Our Lady Gate of Heaven on the Southeast Side is positioned in a place where a small African-American worship center is very appropriate.

This parish of a little over 100 families has a spirit Shakespeare might describe as: “These few, these happy few, this band of brothers and sisters.” Parishioners here are lively, generous in their stewardship of treasure and well trained in leadership roles.

The simple basement church, once part of its school (recently closed), has semi-circular seating and certain ecclesial accents in African art. Youngsters perform liturgical dance on spirit Sundays and special feasts, a food pantry is maintained for the needy, and parishioners pray and socialize together.

These first- and second-generation Catholic converts are predominantly from the South where hospitality is second nature. This heart-filled people join with each other to break bread whether at Eucharistic celebrations, pot lucks, funeral dinners or a Seder meal.