St. Donatus Church
1939 Union St., Blue Island

It’s “a little this, a little that,” in this blue-collar neighborhood where three languages are spoken from the heart. Everyday is another opportunity to build unity between early Italian families, long-time Mexican home-owners and English-speaking parishioners.

Their church, designed by Lawrence Berlow, dedicated in 1959, is the foundation, with a carillon calling them to religious tradition and devotions.

This summer’s 95th week-long St. Donatus Festival was one of the best ever, with former parishioners still coming back from the “burbs” to pitch in. Imagine a bilingual Mass and combined choirs; the statue of a 3rd century martyred bishop, dressed in robes and carried in an outdoor procession; prayers to the Virgin of Guadalupe; tacos and pizza; and you have a snapshot of parish vitality. This year a Mexican parishioner was one of the four statue bearers who traditionally bid for the prestigious honor.

 

top

Front Page | Digest | Cardinal | Observations | Interview | Classifieds | About Us | Write Us | Subscribe | Advertise Archive | Catholic Sites  | New World Publications | Católico | Directory  | Site Map