“Kaszubowo” they called this neighborhood. Saint Josaphat Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith. It also honors community. This wasn’t just any church. It was the heart of Chicago’s Kashubian Polish community.
Founded in 1884, Saint Josaphat began with a small group. Thirteen members sought a place to celebrate their heritage. They approached Father Vincent Barzynski for help. He was a prominent Polish priest. The Kashubians desired their own space. They preferred it to the “German” parish. Saint Michael’s was their initial choice. They even preferred it over Father Barzynski’s Polish parish, Saint Stanislaus Kostka.
The first church and school building was dedicated in 1884. It was a symbol of their identity. Saint Josaphat quickly became a focal point. It drew Polish immigrants. Many had Kashubian roots. This area of Lincoln Park transformed. It became known as Kaszubowo. By 1902, Saint Josaphat boasted 5,000 parishioners.
But Saint Josaphat’s story isn’t without its trials. In 1899, disaster struck. A violent storm destroyed the steel structure under construction. The church had no insurance. Yet, the community rallied. Parishioners raised funds. They rebuilt Saint Josaphat.
In 1902, the new church was dedicated. It was declared fireproof. It featured steel beams and columns. Stone and pressed brick formed its walls. It was a modern marvel. William J. Brinkmann designed the Romanesque masterpiece. He also designed St. Michael the Archangel.
Over time, Saint Josaphat adapted. By 1980, the parish reflected changing demographics. Roughly half identified as Polish American. Thirty percent identified as Mexican American. Today, Saint Josaphat serves a young, urban congregation. Its traditional architecture makes it a sought-after venue for weddings. Over 65 weddings occur here each year.
Step inside Saint Josaphat. Notice the decorations. John Mallin decorated Saint Josaphat’s in the mid to late 1920s. His work evolved over the years. Scaffolding contracts from the 1940s indicate extensive renovations. The ceiling ornamental plaster relief is treated in ivories, greys and gold. The upper columns are marbleized. The walls have been stippled in three colors and decorated with angels.
Look up at the sanctuary ceiling. Emblems adorn a gold background. They blend in four colors. These emblems are symbols of peace.
Saint Josaphat continues to evolve. Structural renovations occurred in the 1950s. Interior redecorating was done by the Hanns Teichart studios. In the 1980s, the interior was painted in shades of beige. This returned the edifice to its former glory. The canvas in the arch depicting the Communion of Saints was restored.
Saint Josaphat stands tall. It stands as a testament to community. It stands as a testament to faith. Its history echoes through the neighborhood. It is a beacon for generations to come.