Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church

Why did Robert F. Kennedy attend mass at Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church in Chicago? It was 1961. Kennedy, then Attorney General, wasn’t there for a typical Sunday service. His presence was part of the vibrant celebrations surrounding the annual Polish Constitution Day Parade. This visit underscores the significant role Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church has played in Chicago’s Polish community. Founded in 1872, Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church aimed to alleviate the overcrowding at St. Stanislaus Kostka, the city’s first Polish parish. Interestingly, a bell from the original church building still exists, tucked away behind the current structure. The church’s history isn’t without its bumps. A twenty-year feud with St. Stanislaus Kostka followed its founding. It wasn’t until the Vatican intervened, sending an Apostolic Delegate, that the parish finally received canonical recognition. The Congregation of Holy Cross, led by Casimir Sztuczko, took the reins. The church’s strong ties to the Polish National Alliance further solidified its position within the community. Many active Alliance members were also parishioners. The construction of the Kennedy Expressway, while necessary for the city, dealt a blow to the church. It sliced through the heart of Chicago’s Polish neighborhood, displacing numerous long-time residents and parishioners. Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church has remained a cultural hub. It has hosted prominent figures from both Poland and the United States, including Polish Prime Minister Jarosław Kaczyński in 2006. Even Hollywood recognized the church’s charm. Holy Trinity Hungarian Roman Catholic Church appears in several scenes of “Call Northside 777” (1948), starring James Stewart. This film holds the distinction of being the first Hollywood feature filmed on location in Chicago.