In 1919, German-speaking Catholics from Luxembourg began gathering in Morton Grove for worship. They had previously traveled to neighboring towns for services, but the growing community yearned for a place of their own. That’s when St. Martha Church came to be.
The church was dedicated to St. Martha, the patron saint of hospitality, and its founders, hoping to create a welcoming space for all, embraced their diverse heritage. The first services were held in a rented tavern, a testament to the community’s dedication and resourcefulness. Only two years later, in 1922, a brick church was built and dedicated on May 4, 1924.
But St. Martha wasn’t just a place of worship; it became a pillar of the community. In 1946, a convent was built for teaching sisters, and a school followed shortly after. The school became a cornerstone of local education, with a high enrollment of nearly 800 students in the 1960s.
The church continued to grow and adapt, hosting events and offering spiritual guidance to an ever-expanding community. In 2006, the current pastor, Fr. Dennis O’Neill, donated his relic collection to the parish. These relics, along with others gathered from around the world, now form the Shrine of All Saints, dedicated by Cardinal Blase Cupich on All Saints’ Day in 2015. The shrine boasts over 2,500 relics, making it one of the largest collections in the United States.
Today, St. Martha stands as a testament to the dedication of its founders and the enduring spirit of its community. It remains a vibrant center of faith, offering a place of worship for those seeking comfort and fellowship. Step inside and feel the weight of history, the vibrant energy of community, and the enduring spirit of St. Martha herself.