Lost in thought, imagine the year is 1875. Now, picture this: St. Vincent de Paul Church begins its story. Founded by Rev. Edward Smith, it stood at Webster and Osgood. It served German and Irish Catholics.
Initially, the building was multi-use. It was church, school, parish hall and rectory. This lasted until 1891. St. Vincent’s School then got its own building.
The original building was remodeled around 1898. A third floor was added. It became the home of St. Vincent’s College. You might know it now as DePaul University. This is the first special anecdote about St. Vincent de Paul Church.
After the school expanded, planning began for a new church. This new St. Vincent de Paul Church was at Webster and Sheffield Avenues. Dedicated on May 1 1897 by Archbishop Patrick Feehan.
James J. Egan designed the new church. He was of Egan and Prindeville. The style is Romanesque Revival with Gothic touches. Indiana limestone makes up the church. Many consider it Egan’s best work. Its twin towers soar 140 feet.
Inside St. Vincent de Paul Church, notice the four large columns. They stand at the nave and transepts’ intersection. They provide an uninterrupted view of the sanctuary. This was somewhat unusual for the time.
The stained glass is from Mayer and Company of Munich, Germany. The west transept window shows Saint Vincent de Paul. He is the church’s patron. He also founded the Congregation of the Mission. The east transept window shows Christ the King.
In 1955, a fire damaged the church. A new south rose window replaced the original. Conrad Schmitt Studios of New Berlin, Wisconsin created it. The twenty-two foot window’s theme is Sun of Splendor. It symbolizes God. Blessings radiate from Him. Eight doves symbolize the beatitudes. Twelve angels hold stars. They symbolize the twelve divine praises.
John A. Mallin painted the ceiling of the apse in 1946. The Carrara marble altar features inlaid mother-of-pearl and mosaics. Augustine O’Callahan designed it. Carl Beil carved lilies, acanthus leaves and more into the altar.
St. Vincent de Paul Church stands as one of Chicago’s most beautiful churches. Its architecture is exquisite. It features a spacious sanctuary and a Lyon and Healy organ. Marble details add to its beauty. Masses occur on Saturdays and Sundays. So, when you step inside, remember its long history. Note its art. Feel the spirit that Rev. Edward Smith began here long ago.