Catholic New World: Newspaper for the Archdiocese of Chicago

Parish Pride

By Dolores Madlener

St. Mary of Vernon Church

236 US Hwy 45 - Indian Creek
St. Mary Magdalene Church

Photo by: Sandy Bertog

Pastor:
Father Joseph C. Curtis
Masses:
Saturdays 5 p.m./ Sundays 7:45, 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. (signed Mass)
Seating capacity:
1,088
Phone:
(847) 362-1005
Parish founded:
1978
Web Address:
www.maryofvernon.org

"If you build it they will come!" St. Mary of Vernon started small and continues to expand. From the first Mass in a school cafeteria, to a multi-purpose worship center built in 1981, the people of God have continued to come. Cardinal George dedicated today's modern $3.8 million church Feb. 19, 2006. Set on 17 scenic acres and designed by architect Robert Nickola, its semi-circular plan provides a warm, communal spirit. The sanctuary of its former worship space is now the foundation for their baptismal area and spacious narthex. Active in social outreach-200 people volunteer for PADS ministry and an on-site food pantry-parishioners get involved. Faith formation is alive with Religious Ed for 800 children, an active Youth Ministry program and many opportunities for adults to share their faith together. The numerous ministries and active volunteers demonstrate the parish spirit is, "we are all in this together."