As a practicing Catholic, I left this Mass deeply unsettled. From the moment I walked into Old St. Patrick's, the atmosphere felt very different from what I have come to expect in a Catholic church. The focus seemed less centered on reverent worship and more on social and political themes. Throughout the homily, the priest repeatedly returned to political topics in a way that felt divisive and distracting from the Gospel. A Catholic Mass should unite people around Christ and the Eucharist, not around political viewpoints. I was also troubled by certain liturgical practices. The congregation was instructed to stand during portions of the Eucharistic Prayer where I would normally expect kneeling, and there seemed to be very little space for silence, reflection, or reverence. The overall experience felt far removed from the sacred and contemplative atmosphere that has traditionally characterized Catholic worship. I fully support welcoming all people into the Church. However, welcome and inclusion should never come at the expense of preserving the sacredness of the liturgy and the centrality of Christ in the Mass. While some may appreciate this style of worship, I personally found it concerning and difficult to reconcile with the reverence and tradition I have experienced in other Catholic parishes. After reading other reviews, I was surprised to find that many of my concerns have been echoed by others. If you are looking for a more traditional, reverent Catholic Mass focused on prayer, silence, the Eucharist, and the timeless teachings of the Church rather than political messaging, this parish may not be the best fit for you. read more

Very welcoming. The 11am mass was very full in a wholesome way. Amy spot is a good spot in this church.

This is a beautiful Roman Catholic Church with beautiful Celtic artwork. It is located in a convenient location. This structure is very unique, as it was built by Irish immigrants to Chicago and survived the Great Chicago Fire. Sadly, I would not advise you to go to Mass here! This is far from a traditional Roman Catholic Church though. During the consecration of the Eucharist, the presiding priest asked everyone to stand and not to show reverence to the sacrament by kneeling. This priest continuously politicizes his homilies by pushing left-wing politics, there is no room for politics at Mass!!! The priest further asked the congregation to pray for the three victims of the Pennsylvania Trump Rally, there were four victims, he intentionally excluded President Donald Trump's name. While greeting congregants he was asked about this and joked about it during his leftist, political homily, stating, "Most of you know the way my politics lean, maybe I made a conscious decision to omit President Donald Trump's name. I guess we should pray for everyone as Christians." I found the conduct of the priest reprehensible! It caused a huge scene after the Mass outside that was really embarrassing and displayed extremely poor conduct by this priest. I would strongly advise avoiding any financial support of Old St Pats Church and to attend a traditional Catholic Church!!! read more

Such a beautiful, welcoming church. Have sung here as a member of the music ministry and loved it. Very friendly and accepting community. Beautiful for special events like weddings and holidays. read more

Old St. Patrick's Church - Churches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Please like my review! I was visiting Chicago for the first time and wanted to attend a Sunday Mass service where I felt at home with God and the community. Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church delivered that ... and more! The liturgy, music, and the community were outstanding. My only regret, not living in Chicago to attend Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church more often. I would highly recommend Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church to my friends, family, and visitors to appreciate this lovely parish community. read more

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Old St. Patrick's Church was built in 1854 in the Romanesque style. It is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and is the oldest church in Chicago. read more

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It's a pretty church. It's easy to have a beautiful church with marble columns gilded crowns and molding which is missing here. That makes it more amazing. The stained glass is present. The engravings are sparsely placed, but what makes this church is how it's painted. Where the gilded crown and molds would be is replaced by intricate painted patterns of perfectly juxtaposed colors which I am architecturally deficient to explain. I've reviewed churches on a budget trying to look grand. Old St Pat forgo that for looking pretty and in that it succeeds. Sorry no pics I was there for Sunday service. read more

This is the review for the space from the Haymarket Opera recital for Iestyn Davies. I was happy to visit this famous church for the first time, the seats were the expected hard pews without frills. In the balcony one is spared the views of the lower audience and can focus directly on the action on the stage. There are so many details everywhere with stained glass and pastel painted statues, and an amazing roof with an interesting rectangular cut hole on many panels (have to learn about this!). It's quoted as the oldest church in Chicago. For a concert space the sound started off diffuse and I could tell the artists were trying to find a balance, but for the second half they largely achieved it (it was a strain for a viola de gamba to project with so much echo of the background band). The countertenor cut through well and when the strings were finally tuned later in the concert the balance was pretty heavenly (Bach took me away) read more

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Must watch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpaQYSd75Ak Moved. Not the church! Me! I WAS moved, is all I can figure, either by that sweet singing sister on Italy's "The Voice" - the show of blind singing auditions... or moved by the fact that one of my dearest friend's (whose parent's happen to be members of Old St. Patricks's) is embarking on an overseas journey and I wanted to "say a little prayer for her!" I found myself on the steps, then in a pew, one fine cold Sunday afternoon during Lent and between masses. (Note: there are more masses offered during Lent, so check the webpage on that.) Whether you're Catholic, practicing or not, any religion or simply just spiritual or maybe even "none of the above"...I bet that you can still appreciate the history and loveliness of this church. Founded on Easter Sunday, April 12, 1846, (with the current structure built in 1854,) this is the oldest church still standing in Chicago, has been described as "the cornerstone of Irish culture" in the city, and is known for its "World's Largest Block Party" every summer since 1985. And in 2014...After my little prayer, before I even got the "Amen" off my lips, I was recruited by one of the current parishioners - to help her retrieve a "lost n found" box from the top shelf of the under the stairs closet. "I'm in!" I thought...It's like I never left! (I grew up pretty well knowing the nooks n crannies of a nice little church in the Chicagoland area.) I was happy that this sweet and gentle, yet "Chicago tough" older lady grabbed me to help her. She was proud to announce to me that she drives in from Wilmette each and every week because "a church alive...is worth the drive!" I've felt it myself and now have it on word of mouth that this place "is alive!" Further, if you want to stop in, catch your breath and offer up a little something to the Big Guy, this is a mighty fine place. Take in a stained glass window, breathe in some history (and keep track of your stuff lest it wind up under the stairwell.) Amen, sister! read more

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I've been coming to mass at Old St. Pat's on-and-off for the better part of 20 years. I could deal with the choir once singing "Christ is at the door; let HER in." I could deal with the banal SJW, "seamless garment" sermons stuck in 1997. Two Sundays ago, the presiding priest kept breaking out into song and into Spanish randomly. That's not so bad in the grand scheme of things. What was really bad was when he asked the congregation to REMAIN STANDING for the Eucharistic Prayer and the Consecration. A mass, in its basic elements, is a Gospel reading, and the Consecration, therein the Transubstantiation. We don't need music, clapping, hand shaking, and all the other trappings of American Catholicity. But we do need to revere the Blessed Sacrament; the True Presence of Christ. For those who can kneel, kneel. But don't ASK the congregation to blindly stand. The Eucharist is the main reason why missing mass on Sundays is a mortal sin (without just cause). I hope the parish reads this and remembers to keep mass sacred and reverent. read more

Catholicism, the Broadway Musical. Catholicism is "catholic" for a reason. It's big and roomy and there's (usually) space for all types. You can find your niche. But personally, I wouldn't return to Old St. Pat's. Old St. Pat's architecture is absolutely fabulous. No gloom and doom here. It's Ireland in pastels. Truly one of the most beautiful churches in Chicago, if not America, especially the balcony upstairs. Anyone visiting the area just west of the Loop should at least walk in and see the building. Just don't stay for the liturgy, which was whip-bang-boom, practically non-existent. I'm not a Chicagoan, but my understanding is that Old St. Pat's is extremely far to the left politically and liturgically. If this is for you, you'll love it here, and more power to you. For me, maybe it was the day I visited, but I felt like I got trapped inside a bad Josh Groban concert. There was something fresh about the place at first, but for me, I guess it just didn't last. Emphasis mostly on the choir director and some tinkly, sentimental contemporary music that was sung with real gusto, but I found it hard to appreciate. It's Groban crossed with college fight songs and an Irish tin whistle. Zero space for silence or private reflection, which I thought was really missing. The church was jam-packed the morning I was there, which makes me wonder where people are coming from when they say stuff like "urban churches are empty, membership is disappearing, religion is a thing of the past." Maybe in bad neighborhoods, but not at Old St. Pat's. Folks here seemed friendly and upbeat. It's a No Depression Zone -- if you can tolerate the sentimental music (which, the day I visited, was obviously center-stage). I thought the over-dramatic choir was more enthusiastic than the congregation, however, which looked like they really wanted something deeper. But that's Catholicism. Catholics have hated singing since Vatican II rammed it down our throats in the 1960s, along with the up-and-down group calisthenics that pass for worship. Old St. Pat's didn't seem like a place for quiet, private reflection. Got to hand to this parish for drawing people in -- obviously a lot of people like it here -- but I've been to more tradition-minded churches where it's also hard to find a seat. This is not a traditionalist church. Gotta say, if the ENTIRE Catholic Church turned into Old St. Pat's overnight, I would leave and go to the Orthodox Church, which respects its liturgy and isn't dead-set on turning mass into a one-hit musical wonder. But I'm glad there's some diversity in the Church, and I'm sure the human community at OSP is solid. To me, it's just that it seemed like a Unitarian or far left-wing Protestant church. I've actually been more moved and intellectually engaged at Unitarian services. If this is what you want, come. If you want something more traditional or even just closer to the "center" (like me), I'd avoid. read more

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Beautiful beyond words. A colorful and uplifting interior and an austere and impressive exterior, this church is 100% amazing. From the outside, I half expected crazy and old-fashioned stone gargoyles (well, maybe not GARGOYLES, but you know what I mean) inside, but instead, upon crossing the entranceway, my eyes were met with a beautiful, open, airy, and colorful feast for the eyes. I don't know much about the history of this place, but I think Nancy covered it to full effect. That being said, add my voice to the chorus in saying that the restored wall paintings and amazing and colorful Celtic knots that weave their way around the high and arching ceiling beams are truly amazing. I'm not a religious person, and I'm certainly not Catholic, but I would highly recommend visiting this church just to drink in the sight of the beautiful stained glass and wall paintings. So come one, come all, sinners, saints, worshippers of Buddha, Xenu, or Satan (however, to the latter, I offer no guarantees that you will not get smote if you show up here), for surely the language of these aesthetics is universal. P.S.: At the risk of stealing the church's soul (wait....then again, that's the superstition of an African tribe, isn't it?), I could not help but take a couple of photos of this place in its full holiday glory. Check them out in Local Pics. read more

Old St. Patrick's Church - The front of the church circa holiday season. - Churches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Located in the West Loop, this is Chicago's oldest church building dating from 1854. Built with a Romanesque Revival style, its octagonal towers are topped with different spires. Every summer the church hosts a massively popular block party complete with rock bands, food and booze. I remember after a rain delay, the Smithereens began their set by greeting the crowd bay saying "Hello MF's !". read more

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The oldest church in Chicago. The main church building is one of a handful of structures remaining in the city that predate the 1871 Great Chicago Fire, and is the city's oldest standing church building. We found it as we walked around from our hotel in Greektown .. the crown plaza. Even if you don't go for services it's lovely inside and it was open to go take a look. Be respectful of those that are there to worship or pray. read more

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What a lovely place for worship. The choir is wonderful. Also they have several mass times for a variety of schedules. When I used to go there on a regular basis it was super packed and standing room only. Times have changed and now there are more gaps and open spaces. Maybe that's because of the Bears game today? Also, what Saint is supposed to be on the front right side? Seems like one is missing? Free parking 1/2 block away check their website for directions. read more

A Prince and Pauper experience. MAIN VENUE -- all the trappings of beauty, grandeur and exultation. BASEMENT VENUE -- simple yet nicely decorated. Due to overcapacity on Main Floor, we were directed to the basement and mislead to think that it is an extension of the main service. NOPE! Two entirely different services. INDIRECT MESSAGE DELIVERY -- plenty of words that are confusing. Pre-requisite to Catholicism is required to understand the message. References to the Angels. Monotonous voice makes you fall asleep or zone out. ELEVATOR available. Nice winding carpeted staircase. read more

Old St. Patrick's Church - Basement Service - Churches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

To me, a church is more than the building. It is the pastors, priests, administration, congregation and the general feeling you get when you walk in. The building is nice, white, clean, almost sterile. I like the Holy Water fountain. I like the Catholic iconography. Everything is in good condition at Old St. Pat's. I can see the appeal of a liberal pastor to a younger congregation, but they sometimes go over the top during their sermons. The congregation? Not so welcoming. Well, if you are not an old fur coat wearing biddy, and you try to shake hands with a fur toting biddy, expect to be shunned. Or, as happened to us, have a hand shake and watch the person bust out their pocket hand sanitizer. True story. Nice to look at, worth a walk thru, but I like warmth in my home. read more

First of all, let me preface my review by pointing out that I am not Catholic, in fact, I am Jewish. My wife, however, is Catholic, and OSP is her church of choice. About a month before we got engaged, she convinced me to join her for a Sunday Mass at OSP. Given that my experiences attending Mass (albeit infrequent) had been overbearing and intimidating, I begrudgingly agreed. I was overwhelmed with the welcome I received at OSP. My wife introduced me to Father Cusick before the Mass, and his friendliness was amazing. Shortly after we sat down, a man came up to me, introduced himself, and basically said "Father Cusick says you're Jewish, well, so I am, and blah blah blah, we have interfaith groups, etc, etc", but in no way was it pushy - it was actually very nice to see folks going out of their way to recognize and welcome a visitor. I even got a shout-out during Father Cusick's opening comments. So it was no surprise that we decided to get married at OSP, and there was no question that Father Cusick was the only priest we could have do the job. And I couldn't have been happier with how it went down. Father Cusick knows more about Jewish tradition and culture than I do, and even though we decided to not have an interfaith ceremony with a rabbi as well, our ceremony was respectful to BOTH of our families' traditions. My Jewish relatives did not feel uncomfortable, in fact, they felt right at home. Father Cusick's homily was amazing (as always), and, no lie, both my wife and I feel that the wedding ceremony at OSP was the highlight of our entire wedding. read more

So I've kept going like I said I would & officially turned in the proper forms (one page) to become a member. Within minutes of turning in my application I received a sweet email letting me know the process & I'd be contacted in a few days with more information. Today I received an email from one of their employees asking when a good time to come in for 20 - 30 minutes to just chat & find out what/how I want to be involved with the Church. They reach out, they want to engage you, and there's no mystery at Old St. Pat's & I *love* it. There are also monthly "new members" dinners with the main priest & other newly joined members, which I will be invited to soon. What a treat! I guess if I were a bit anti-social it would be intimidating, but I could talk to...well, just about anything for hours so I'm very much looking forward to both meetings. read more

A trip to a venue with free bread, free wine, amazing decor and (a) wonderful service sounds like a Yelper's dream. Cue it up: "This sounds amazeballs." "So excited!" "I haven't been to an event in a while. Fingers crossed!" "Six stars!" "Thanks to Captain McTrackjacket for another amazing event! How do you do it?" I'll stop there before I break the First Commandment. So why does such a venue only have 28 reviews on The Yelp? Well, because it's a Catholic Church, and the commie-heathen masses on The Yelp don't...oh, I'm sinnin' again. Sorry, I'll get myself to Confession for that one and not being very Catholic-like. ____________ As I indicated, I'm not a very good Catholic and don't practice it much any more, but there are occasions that call for hitting the pews every now and again for what my dad referred to as "a conversation with God." I had one of these occasions this week and - after wrangling with myself for 20 minutes before finally committing - headed to church over at Old St. Pat's for the 7 a.m. mass. Church has always made me feel good - or at least better going out than I felt going in - and it wasn't any different on this occasion. I needed the inspiration to do something, so I went to church looking for that inspiration. I walked out having found it, and then I did what I had to do, with a resultant positive reaction within 48 hours. Thanks, G, angels and saints! Of course, it's sometimes difficult to keep that feeling going, so Old St. Pat's offers you two daily masses during the week to get your inspiration from Providence - 7 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. And those masses are wham, bam, thank you Fr. Hurley 20-25 minutes long. Who doesn't like an extra free 20 minutes of sinnin' time an abbreviated mass provides? The church itself - like all other churches in their own right - is quite beautiful. It's adorned in beige, green and yellow pastels and Celtic knots throughout and is visually stunning. You'll have plenty of decor to study when you zone out during the 45-minute Sunday mass. The only thing I'm not a fan of as to Old St. Pat's is that it's a sort of hub parish where people invade from all over the city and even the suburbs for the Sunday masses. I know that the church is very alluring, that it has a lot of history associated with it and that the throngs are good for the church, but isn't a parish a local thing? Don't these folks have local parishes in their neighborhoods/towns? Doesn't this make the answer to Frank Mathie's, "What parish?" sort of unclear and moot? I digress. Church is always a good thing if you can get yourself motivated to go, and what this particular church offers bread, wine, service and decor wise is certainly worth checking out at a mass, a wedding or other event if you get the opportunity. Five crosses. read more

I haven't attended a Mass here in several years, so take this with a grain of salt. It's a spectacle. If you walk in during the homily, there might be a guy running around, waving his arms, hollering... And it's the priest! This is Chicago's Catholic Shrine to the Left. The homilies were showy, often political, and long, usually staying away from really challenging issues for young adults and focusing on stuff that makes us feel good (but doesn't really help us grow). The rest of the Mass was abridged so that it fit into an hour. The young adults socials afterwards were a throw-back to high school - everyone hanging out in cliques. Of course, go with a friend. I was about 26 when I was going and the guys seemed a lot older - although they do a good job of making sure young adult activities are limited to people in their 20s and 30s. In a sense, it's like St. John Cantius... Some people love it, others (like me) find Jesus more in a different parish. read more

I'm currently church-shopping in Chicago, and decided to write this review to give others new in town an idea of what to expect here. I'm giving Old St. Pat's 3 stars because I feel a little weird rating a church as either amazing or awful - that's really a matter of personal preference. What's amazing for one person is awful for the next. Here's what I experienced at Old St. Pat's: 1. It's big. If you like the sounds of a big congregation filling up a beautifully-decorated space, Old St. Pat's might be for you. 2. As mentioned above, it's beautiful - that is, in the ornately decorated sense (I recognize that even beauty is subjective, and this style of decoration isn't necessarily for everyone). Think gold, murals, carvings etc. This is not a sparsely decorated church. 3. All age groups represented. As a single young adult, I did not feel out of place - but I would have just as easily fit in if I were someone with kids, or an older individual. Racially, the congregation was predominantly white, but I did see a number of hispanic and asian people who were not at all out of place. 4. I'd describe the Mass as on the traditional side (for a Catholic Mass - obviously any Catholic Mass has aspects of "traditional"). Traditional musical settings. The congregation was a mix of the traditionalists who do all of the kneeling, and the more "contemporary Catholics" who remain standing. 5. The homily was standard - I'm not going to say good or bad, because again, that's a matter of opinion. Much of it was affirming Catholic beliefs and the desire to put belief into practice. Nothing stood out to me as ruffling any feathers, be they liberal or conservative. I should note that I only went to one Mass, so priests at other Mass times could vary. 6. The church appears to have a very active volunteer program - I can't speak to it, but just throwing that out there for anyone who might be interested. I'm certainly in support of volunteers doing good things anywhere, in any way! So hats off to Old St. Pat's for that. read more

I don't usually attend mass at this church, but I attend other activities. I volunteer with the Trinity Volunteer Corps Special Needs Group. I was very excited too. read more

I went to a service here last week. The priest gave a bunch of random readings that didn't seem to have any valid context or underlying meaning to convey. The one piece I did get is when he actually started to tell another random story where a member vented to him about violence in the city and implied a connection to video games. That's where I got lost. For real? Not you too! Keep your damn hands off my video games! There is no connection between physical violence and video games. Try inequality... Now, perhaps we can do some things to wipe out inequality and curb the violence that way. The priest didn't even really come right out and say it either. It was almost as if he threw his hands up and said, "Hey,I'm just telling a story here. Take what you want from it..." Well, I did... and I'm never coming back. The church is absolutely beautiful though and definitely worth a visit. Just bring an ipod and a good playlist if you find yourself in an uninspired and pointless sermon. read more

Really nice church. Very holy. Didn't feel super old but I get what they're going for. Would come back for mass

I'm a Catholic that believes going to mass shouldn't be a boring, blah blah blah, recite away, kneel up/down experience... You should walk out feeling refreshed, and part of your community, and closer to God and the people you just celebrated with. If you want a parish like that - definitely come to Old St. Pat's! Father Cusick packs people in on Sunday's - and usually gets so hoarse from his homily (because he's just full of the Holy Spirit) - you'll laugh, possibly cry, but always walk out feeling reconnected and that you have gotten another blessing to remember why you're Catholic. There have been people that come here that aren't Catholic - it's that great of a Christian atmosphere! Plus, I was a sponsor for the RCIA program last year... and if you have ANYONE that's thinking that Catholicism may be for them - please have them check this out! There's wine, food, and some of the most fun and awesome Catholics I've ever met... read more

OSP is a great example of what I feel a Catholic community should be. Mass always begins with introducing yourself to the people sitting around you. Whether you are a first-time visitor, or a regular parishioner, I feel it helps reinforce the notion of celebrating mass as community. I enjoy most of the homilies on Sunday. The music is excellent, and sung by a choir at every mass except for maybe the earliest morning one. Although it's a downtown church, there is free parking available, and only really a problem during masses like Easter Sunday and Midnight Mass. The church community is active as well, providing activities for a wide variety of groups (teens, adults in their 20s-30s, adults 35+). OSP is also known for Block Party, a two day event which takes over a 2-3 block section of Des Plaines Avenue. OSP is also a beautiful location to have a wedding. read more

This church is beautiful. I feel right at home with all of the Irish decor everywhere. After being on the hunt for a church I liked to go to since I moved to the city from the suburbs, I think I've finally found it. I drive from Lakeview to come to mass on Sundays. What sealed the deal for me was everyone's very friendly and welcoming disposition. Having come from the University of Dayton for school, who prides itself on their strong sense of community, Old St. Pat's was the first place that I felt this community feel again. The priest walked around and shook everyone's hands before mass, the homily was entertaining but very meaningful, and I took a LOT away from it. Even the woman in front of us overheard my mom ask the priest to bless a metal for her godson (Patrick) who was being deployed to Afghanistan and told my mom that she would personally pray for Patrick. Heart: warmed. The volunteer fair was happening the same day we attended mass, luckily enough. I received some information about all the different things that I can get involved in at the church and am really, really looking forward to becoming more a part of this "community" in this big city! read more

Like so many Catholic churches this one is beautiful. The masses are lively and relevant, when so many churches aren't. The music is very good, though I can do without clapping for the choir at the end since their singing is a choice and I thought it was supposed to be in service of God. That's just a little too profane when I came for the sacred. It's very popular due not just to the charisma of Fr. Cusick, but also to the more soft-spoken priests, like Fr. Wall, who are equally worth listening to. I'd gone there regularly for many years and have gained a lot of insight into my faith and life. They offer a lot for young adults, but mainly in the summer. However, now I'm not in my 30s and I do think the church has gotten too big. Parking is a problem and unless you plan to wait for hours in a long line, don't even think of going here on Christmas or Easter. Although I see myself as rather progressive, I do think those who've mentioned the lack of spiritual challenge have a point. I wouldn't say Fr. Cusick is the most liberal priest in Chicago, but probably all the priests here are at least "kinda liberal." If that's a concern, this won't be your best choice. Also if you're real liberal, Old St. Pat's may not fit the bill either. It's a comfortable place for professionals near Chicago to pray. They do try to promote community, but it's rather more like hospitality that's short lived. Since it's a big parish with people coming from all over the area it isn't a place where I've come to feel known. I think to do that you need to exert a lot of effort to form bonds with other Catholics here unlike more neighborhood churches. (For some reason I've found finding a church in Chicago that's got community and good priests tough. That was easier to do in Texas and Calif.) They offer several speaker series, but nothing regular like a Bible Study. They have several social groups for different age groups and an interfaith marriage group. read more

I love the free parking and easy accessibility of the church. It's very beautiful and serene on the inside as well. Most of the priests are pretty funny and entertaining, but sometimes you come across a homily that is not very applicable to the readings and gospels. The songs sung are typically Irish-influenced and some of them are hard to follow. I also don't like how they haven't switched over to saying the new Nicene Creed like the other Catholic Churches have done and I have to catch myself when reciting it. Other than that, the patrons are very friendly and always greet you with a warm smile. It's first and foremost a place of worship and peace, and it serves that purpose. read more

This is a wonderful neighborhood church since it's my neighborhood and so convenient. They have daily mass and probably six or more masses on Sunday. Talk about no excuses! The priests here are super cool too - they are funny and have great stories. They are always doing something unique during mass too - be it little plays or just something out of the ordinary to further explain their point and lesson they give during their sermon. And they do great things for the neighborhood - to get ppl involved in mass and community activities. I have yet to check out the block party - I have heard all great things My heart will always belong to St. Mary of the ANgels, but this is a great alternative! read more

I first visited OSP based off of the fun I had at the Block Party. I figured any church that could throw a party that fun, would understand me. I have never been disappointed. It is a beautiful church with priests who actually care and get involved in the communitiy. The parishoners are very friendly and accomidating. And it has an unbelieveable choir. Worth stopping by for alone. I highly recommend if you are looking for a new church or you are just in town for the weekend, that you check it out. read more

Well maybe cancelling the fest for this year, Wasn't a bad idea after all....Since the crazy COVID delirium still persists....

Father Herley said a beautiful mass this morning. Old St Patrick's Church is stunning and the parish is very welcoming to visitors. God Bless you all read more

Beautiful church with an old exterior and modern interior. It survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. They must have a huge electric bill thanks to the air-conditioning. My wife and I came here for a weekday mass. Pleasant homilies geared toward the working people who attend during their lunch hour. read more

My now husband and I, without a doubt, have had the very best experience at Old St. Patrick's (OSP)! After we became engaged, together, we began visiting churches and attending masses around Chicago to find were we belonged. Rediscovering weekly mass within welcoming and open church walls was instrumental in our wedding church selection. We were in search of a 'home' and OSP was it for us! After attending mass one January Sunday, we knew OSP was were we belonged. JoAnn O. is OSP's Wedding Coordinator. She's responsive, nice, patient, understand, and AWESOME! JoAnn walked us through the process ever so kindly. She has many weddings under her belt and has the temperament of a saint to prove it! We participated in OSP's PreCana program and have nothing negative to say. Out of all the PreCana options available to couples in Chicago getting married in the Catholic Church, I'd HIGHLY recommend the fine-tuned program OSP has in place. Our Rehearsal Coordinator was sweet as a peach and took the time to welcome our out-of-towners; filling them in on OSP's history. Our day-of-coordinators we're experienced, patient, kind, complimentary, and I could go on and on Guests (not an all-Catholic crowd) continue to compliment us on the sincerity and holiness of our ceremony. Thank you to OSP for welcoming us! We're looking forward to many, many celebrations with you! Leslie + Corey - 09.21.2013 - 5PM read more

Old St. Pats is a wonderful parish on the south west side of the loop. I have never attended a mass where I didn't feel like I had really attended a spiritual sacrament. The experience of a mass is so much in the heart and mind of the person attending that it is difficult to 'review' a church. What I can say is it is always easier for me at this church. Even when I lived out of state, I would go to Old St. Pat's when I came to town. Now I travel quite a ways to go there. The parish now has a new pastor and a few important things have slipped some. What struck me most about this catholic church when I first started going was how authentically everyone participated in the mass. There was a freshness about this service that I had not experienced anywhere else and I used to sing in the Cathedral years ago. When the prayers and songs that everyone participated in came up I always felt I was praying with everyone there. This is, I think, how mass should always be and is so rarely. I am hoping that the new Pastor is finding his stride. Fr. Jack Wall (who built up the very young enthusiastic parish) is still involved as is Fr. John Cusick... If you get a chance to attend any event with Fr. Cusick you will not be disappointed. Here is an article about him: http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2010-03-28/news/ct-sun-0328-sidewalks-cusick-20100328_1_faith-question-buries read more

Gathering for the Community Renewal Society Martin Luther King Jr. Faith in Action Assembly. An amazing group of over 2000 saints for justice. Thank you to Old St. Patrick's Church for your warm welcome. read more

Hands down the best Church in Chicago. I love it here! The restorations are beautiful, and the outer facade is gorgeous. On top of looking great, Mass is great here, and the Church offers plenty of times to attend Mass, has Mass for different age groups (for young adults, families, etc.), and has plenty of "meetings" of sorts to become an active member of the church. Also, you can sign up for weekly e-mails keeping you up to date with the happenings! read more

If I wanted to hear about politics I'd stay home and watch Meet the Press. When they start asking for money or railing on with their liberal views you can always just zone out and look at the Church....very beautiful. read more