Didn’t Rev. Peter Geraghty realize the burgeoning need for a Catholic church way back in 1921? He envisioned Saint Christina’s Catholic Church. He purchased two and a half acres of land near 111th Homan.
Saint Christina’s Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It is located at 3342 West 111th Street in Chicago. Its story is deeply interwoven with the history of Mount Greenwood.
Families sought a permanent parish. James Burns led an assembly of families. Cardinal Mundelein granted their request. Cunningham school hosted the first mass. Rev. Thomas Friel officiated as the first pastor of Saint Christina’s Catholic Church.
A portable church soon appeared at 11023 South Homan. The Liturgy of the Word echoed within its walls on June 15, 1927. This marked the beginning of construction endeavors involving the men of the parish family.
Rev. J.A. Rebedeau took over in September 1929. Mount Greenwood experienced a population boom. For almost three decades, the parish flourished. He expected much from the Saint Christina’s community. They always delivered.
When a recreation center was needed, the men went to work. This project started October 7, 1929. It was dedicated in December. The following year, attention shifted to a much needed Rectory. It was dedicated December 7, 1930.
Next came a brick church. On Christmas Day 1935, Mass was celebrated in the new church. It stood where the portable church had been. Mount Greenwood’s population grew. Saint Christina needed a school. Father Rebedeau signed a fifteen year lease on the old Central Park school on Central Park Avenue on July 25, 1938. The Dominican sisters were commissioned to teach the Catholic students. Mother Geslaus and her fellow sisters arrived August 27, 1938. The new school welcomed 173 eager pupils on September 6, 1938.
Rev. Rebedeau witnessed the building of the stunning church we see today. It accommodates 1,500 parishioners. Cardinal Stritch dedicated this new church on May 27, 1956.
Father John Ireland Gallery became pastor in April 1958. The parish grew under his leadership. He retired on his 70th birthday after 15 years of service.
Father Pavis joined the parish in January 1973. Upgrades and repairs were needed. Funding was a challenge. Father Pavis created funding solutions. His organizational skills motivated the parish. Fundraising events became a staple. Saint Christina remained financially stable.
By 1979, the Central Park buildings were torn down. The property became a field for parish functions.
Father Curran led the community for thirteen years. The people of Saint Christina worked together. Generations of families stayed to raise their children in the same Christian environment.
Father Martin O’Donovan, a former resident and parishioner, became pastor in July 1993. His teachings emphasized peace through prayer. He left in July 2008.
Father Sullivan arrived and was embraced by the parish.
For over eighty years, the heart and soul of Saint Christina’s Catholic Church has thrived. Like church members before us, we continue to seek and grow. We meet new challenges with optimism.
Saint Christina is more than bricks and mortar. It is a legacy of faith. It is a history of memories. It is a vibrant community.