“It’s sad.” That’s what Ricardo Nava said about St. Roman Roman Catholic Church. He learned it would close. Imagine being here for a niece’s baptism. Then hearing the church you stand in will shut down next summer.
St. Roman stands at 2311 S. Washtenaw Ave. in Chicago. Nava’s family made many memories here. Baptisms confirmations weddings and funerals all within these walls. Nava lived across the street when he was seven. It was part of his family.
Sadly St. Roman wasn’t the only Chicago Catholic parish closing. The Archdiocese of Chicago planned closings and consolidations. This impacted parishes citywide. Schools and churches would close to save money. These closures happened in places like Hegewisch Lincoln Square Norwood Park and Little Village.
The archdiocese cited demographic changes as reasons. They also mentioned shifting views on religion. A shortage of priests factored in too. Three Little Village churches became one. St. Roman Church and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish both closed. These parishes merged with Our Lady of Tepeyac parish and school. The merger happened on July 1 2020.
The new parish leadership discussed possible names. They followed archdiocese guidelines. Our Lady of Tepeyac became the designated church. The pastor’s office and records are kept there. Ministry activities continue at Assumption B.V.M. campus. This includes Kolbe House and Taller de José. The pastor decided how often ministries use the campus. There were no changes planned for Our Lady of Tepeyac Elementary or High School.
Another St. Roman parishioner Manuel Guzman didn’t understand. He estimated 150 people attended his weekly mass. He didn’t think the church struggled. Alma a parishioner for 28 years felt sadness. “It’s a beautiful church” she said. She predicted few would move to Our Lady of Tepeyac. She thought the Catholic church would lose members. “I don’t know if I’ll go” she said. “It was convenient that this church was so close.”
St. Roman welcomes those seeking Christianity. The church aimed to encourage others. It wanted them to join in a life-enhancing Christian journey. St. Roman was a friendly Christian community. It welcomed others to worship and serve God. The church emphasized understanding the Bible. They followed Jesus’ example.
St. Roman’s vision was to impact Chicago for God. They helped people understand messages of eternal hope. Jesus gave these messages through His words and deeds. All were welcome. The church wanted to get to know them better.
Today remember St Roman’s story. Recall the baptisms weddings and memories made within its walls. Though closed its impact on the community remains. Consider the people who found solace here. Think about their devotion and sense of belonging. Even in closure St. Roman’s spirit endures.