Sold for a cool 1.35 million dollars. That’s the story of Saint Cornelius Church. Not a bad price for a building with such a rich history. Right here in Jefferson Park Chicago.
Saint Cornelius Church wasn’t always a potential pickleball court. It served generations of Catholics since 1926. It’s a cornerstone of the community. The church hosted fall events and provided charitable service through its food pantry. The church sits on a triangular plot. It’s a striking sight on Foster Avenue.
Father Luke Lyons founded the parish in 1925. He was appointed by Cardinal Mundelein. The first Mass was held in the Beaubien School. The church and school opened in 1926. Three Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary opened the school. The parish grew rapidly. By the 1930s it had 800 families. The school had 400 students.
Growth continued. A new rectory and convent were built in the 1950s. More classrooms were added to the school. By the 1960s the church needed a larger space. A new church was built on Foster Avenue. It seats 750 people. A lower chapel was also added for extra services. Parishioner numbers soared to 2500 families in the 1980s. The school reached its peak enrollment of 850 students in the 1960s.
The church has always embraced diversity. It incorporated Hispanic and Filipino celebrations into its liturgies. The parish members work together despite their different backgrounds. This unique cooperation is one of Saint Cornelius’s greatest achievements.
In 2020 Saint Cornelius was consolidated with other parishes. It became part of Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish and School. The church building was recently sold. Its sacred items were moved to other parishes. The building will become a pickleball court. That is the latest chapter of Saint Cornelius Church. A church with a vibrant past now faces a new unexpected future.