St. Isaac Jogues Church
8149 W Golf Road, Niles

In 1956, ducks and geese roamed the 6-acre tract where church buildings now stand. Named for one of the North American martyrs, it is indeed a parish of transformation. The original functional worship space has been gracefully turned around inside and out by Belli & Belli Architects. The completely redesigned exterior facade was done in start- ling white durable synthetic plaster. “Look, I make all things new” could be the parish motto. (See www.sij-parish.com for a virtual tour of the edifice.)

Human elements of faith, hospitality, involvement and stewardship make this multi-cultural, middle-income community work. With an eclectic mix of young and adult Americans, Filipinos, Indians, new Poles, and others, hymns and customs are assimilated in worship or devotions. Parishioners here feel comfortable “welcoming the stranger.”

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