Standing before Saint Thomas More Roman Catholic Church, a towering presence on South California Avenue, it’s easy to feel the weight of history. This landmark church, built in 1958, is a testament to the vibrant growth of Chicago’s south side after World War II. The parish itself was founded just a year earlier, in 1947, the first new parish established in the city after the war. The church was designed by the Chicago architecture firm Barry and Kay, known for their modernistic style. You can see this style reflected in the church’s unique design, like the oval drum sitting atop a rectangular base. The walls are adorned with colorful tile mosaics and the stained glass windows, created by the renowned French artist Gabriel Loire, depict the life of Saint Thomas More himself.
The church grew rapidly, as new families settled in the area. The parochial elementary school, which began with just 250 students, quickly reached 450 in its first year. By the 1950s, the school needed to add a second story and still couldn’t handle the growing enrollment. At its peak, the school boasted a whopping 2,000 students. The school closed in 2005, but the church still stands as a landmark, a reminder of a bygone era of rapid growth and a strong Catholic community.
This beautiful church is also home to a bustling congregation. You’ll find a Spanish Mass every Sunday, and even a Traditional Latin Mass, making it a diverse gathering place for the community. As you stand here, taking in the details of the church’s architecture and imagining its history, you can almost feel the echoes of prayer and the sound of joyous hymns that have resonated within these walls for over half a century. Saint Thomas More Roman Catholic Church remains a beacon of faith in the heart of Chicago.