“Let’s build a church here,” Father Hanton might have said. St. Alexander Parish stands as a testament to faith and community in Palos Heights. Founded in June 1959, St. Alexander Parish began with humble origins. Archbishop Albert Cardinal Meyer appointed Father Hanton to lead the new parish. Father Hanton chose the name “St. Alexander” to honor the third-century pope. He also honored his deceased father and brother who shared the name.
Initially, the first Mass was held in Van Henkelum’s Funeral Parlor. As attendance grew, services moved to Palos East School’s auditorium. The Crawford Family donated the 11-acre site where St. Alexander Parish now stands.
Groundbreaking for the church and school complex occurred on December 6th, 1959. Father Hanton’s sister belonged to the Sisters of Providence. He asked them to staff the new school. Four sisters arrived on August 5th, 1960. Sister Joseph Clare became the first principal.
The school opened on September 1st, 1960, with 247 students. Today, the enrollment is 430 students. The cornerstone of the church and school was laid on October 30, 1960. The first Mass in the new church took place on August 28th, 1961. Cardinal Francis Meyer dedicated the completed complex on October 4th, 1961.
Father Hanton passed away suddenly on April 16, 1969. A statue of St. Alexander was erected in his memory. It was first placed in the atrium. In 1999, the statue was moved to the east façade for better visibility.
Monsignor Cornelius J. McGillicuddy succeeded Father Hanton. He served as pastor for eight years. The Rev. John M. Crosby became pastor on June 1, 1977. He served for 20 years.
To meet the growing needs of the parish, a parish center was built. It catered to religious, educational, athletic, and social activities. A new rectory was also constructed. Cardinal John Cody dedicated the new facilities on September 14, 1980.
The Rev. Edward J. Cronin was installed as pastor in July 1997. He served for 13 years. St. Alexander Parish has grown to include 3000 families. Rev. Martin E. Michniewicz was assigned pastor in July 2010.
Today, St. Alexander School continues to provide education. It serves students from preschool through eighth grade. The school focuses on academic, religious, and moral foundations. St. Alexander remains a vibrant center of faith. It enriches the lives of its parishioners and the wider community.