Best day is friday , they treat you like family. I've been attending with my family for six years…read more the last years its improved a lot.

Very welcoming congregation. I have even brought Jewish and Mormon friends to service and they have…read moreeven felt comfortable and enjoyed the experience. Love the music- contemporary but not overly trendy. Great sermons that you can often bring back into your own life. Wonderful volunteer opportunities. Something almost every week! Lots of gatherings- from small community bible study groups to cocktail hours after work to morning mommy meetings. "Dinners With Grace"- a monthly potluck hosted at someone's home is also a lot of fun. They also host an annual wine tasting event that all of my friends go to (and love)! Lots of foodies at this church =) Many young families- also some singles in their 20's, a few older folks. But mainly couples in their young/mid 30's with young kids. Plus, Sunday School offered every Sunday for the little ones! Come at 10am for coffee and increedddible muffins to socialize. Church is from 10:30-12ish. Free parking in the school lot- bonus!!

Alright, I'm a parishioner so I felt I had to represent. I'm not exactly sure what a "repressed…read moregay" or lesbian churchgoer looks like, so I can't say and really, what does that have to do with Church anyway? Having belonged to several parishes, I'm also not sure what a "typical family Catholic Church" looks like either. Aren't they all kinda based on family? What consistently makes me love this place is the neo-Gothic architecture and the two organs. It's worth it to come in and just see and hear those. A mass is a mass. It's surely not for everybody. And it's not entertainment, really, so expect a good solid Sunday mass (I have never reviewed a mass before...I guess there's always a first). The 11 o'clock is the "high" mass--nothing but bells and smells here but it's traditional and that's why we do it. And the "sing song" choir music happens to be a rounded choir repertoire featuring classical and contemporary composers. In my opinion, it's music typical in quality and caliber to what one may find at a Cathedral. Again good music, but religious music--there will be chant, there will be a distinctive sound...there will be no inclusion of Jars of Clay or clapping. There will be no percussion instruments. 4:30 on Sunday is much more contemporary music played on the piano with acoustic guitar and a more pop-ish sound (although still Catholic music--nothing you'll find on a "worship" CD. It always cracks me up when people call church "a downer." Yes...if you expect it to be the Super Bowl every week then it will, indeed, be a downer. But I've always found this church to have a real sense of community and an awareness of its location in an urban setting in the middle of Boys Town. This isn't a suburban parish and I'm always thankful for that.

I've been a parishioner for about 3 years and I enjoy going to Mass here very much. I try and check…read moreout the 11am mass during non-summer Sundays since I find the choir amazing and a real uplift during Mass. It does sometimes cause the Mass to go over a little, but honestly, the difference between an hour and 1h 10 mins is really nothing. And singing is like praying twice (or something like that), so it's like your praying three times here. :P The architecture here is also nice - the somewhat hidden chapel is very beautiful. They do an architecture tour once in a while and it's interesting to learn about the stained glass windows and all the statues - some which have a close bond to Chicago. I haven't had any major sacraments here, so I can't comment on anything administrative wise, but as far as churches go, it serves its purpose!

I really enjoyed visiting this church. The architecture is beautiful, and even though it's not very…read morelarge, it has a special charm that makes it stand out. I've visited many churches in the area, and this one is definitely one of my favorites. The people here are very kind and welcoming, which made the experience even better. There are also so many beautiful works of art inside that are worth taking the time to admire. Overall, it's a wonderful place to pray and reflect, and I would definitely come back again for Sunday Mass or during the holidays.

Beautiful church. Grateful to the lady that unlocked the doors on 12/22/2023, to allow us to come…read morein and pray.

Prior to Lakeview Presbyterian, my experience with religion and church was not the most positive:…read morethe pastor in my first church never heard of the Apocrypha, the second only looked at her congregation as units for tithes. I pretty much gave up on religion, and pretty much relegated it as an arm of politics. But one day, I thought to myself, why not? I have to stop by Redbox to return a dvd anyway .... The very first sermon was amazing. Rev. Joy illustrated that maybe God's temperament changes between the Old Testament and the New not because of political expediency in the "scrivener's" of the Bible, but because God is with us, and also adapting in our journey. My life has never been the same. Rev. Joy and Larissa are always open to discuss all things religious and secular. Ask them anything Dan Brownish and seemingly heretical and they will give you an epistle demonstrating their understanding and faith. But the church also provides services to the Lakeview community. It provides lunches to elders in the neighborhood, it offers Cafe Pride giving Lakeview youth a warm and safe space to hangout on Fridays, the congregation is active at Pride and Market Days, and it offers an amazing Free Trade Bazaar. So if you want to grow religiously, or just academically - go to Lakeview. If you want to meet cool diverse people - go to Lakeview. If you want your blood pressure checked by the church's nurse, Sue Cox, go to Lakeview.

I moved here last summer and went to a ton of churches looking for the right fit for me. Lakeview…read morePresbyterian is definitely the church that made me feel the most comfortable and I ended up joining in May. I would describe the atmosphere as laidback, welcoming, diverse and intellectual. It is a More Light church http://www.mlp.org/ and is very active in social justice issues. The pastor, Joy, is really good at what she does. If you're looking for a church actively working on what they are preaching, this is the place. Check it out some Sunday (preferably at 11 am) and say hello :)

The preaching by the Coordinating Pastor, Dr. Jon Pennington, is very clear and biblical teaching,…read moreincluding a gospel presentation every Sunday! The meaningful worship time covers both contemporary worship choruses and hymns. The sanctuary is cozy and attractive. it is the only evangelistic church in Lakeview area of Chicago.

I've been to SO many Chicago churches, and this is the most genuine group of people I've met. The…read moregroup is small, the worship lively (and contemporary), and the preaching is practical and timely. Jon (the pastor) is very welcoming, and has become a close friend over the years. The church service is casual, and all are welcome. If you are just checking out churches, you'll feel very welcome here. If you are truly looking to be fed and challenged in your walk with God, then C3 is the place for you! *Services start at 10:00am and 4:00pm every Sunday*

Really beautiful church. Great acoustics too. All churches should look something like this.read more

St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Church is a Gothic masterpiece of perfection in the Lakeview area of…read moreChicago. The church's first members originally were of German, Irish and Polish descent. It still ranks among the greatest church, according to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese. The church has a rich history, starting from 1882--1889, when it was first incorporated in Chicago. The architect, Adam Boo, created an athenaeum 125 feet long and 50 feet wide, while the interior is 20 feet high, with a 20 foot cross centered over the alter. The chapel has a seating capacity of 1,200. The entire facade is made from blue Bedford rock. So are the gracefully curving stairways, veranda, and tall imposing tower, which rises to a height of 200 feet above the foundation. When the church is viewed from the outside, it truly is a reverent sight to behold. The interior of the church features two marble side alters, donated by the Ulsamer Family and the Rouen Family. The present alters each weigh 40 Tons. A massive organ has over 3,000 pipes located high up in the balcony's choir loft. The original organ and balcony were destroyed in a 1950 fire, then rebuilt. Four large clocks are located in the tower, 150 feet above the streets. My Son and I recently made our pilgrimage to this church to pray and light candles in honor of my Mother and Father, who both recently passed away. It was one of the most historical and beautiful churches I've ever been in. I've edited some of my pictures, since it is dark inside and lightening them shows the details much better. I hope you enjoy them as much as we did. The only thing missing from that day was the tower bells. If only I could have heard them ringing. 51/100

Hands down the best church in Chicago! The congregation is incredibly welcoming, and once people…read morejoin, they truly feel at home. We absolutely love the pastors--their messages are inspiring and heartfelt. The music is uplifting and always fantastic. If you're looking for a place to grow in faith and community, I highly recommend experiencing this church and its services.

Reviewing as a member of the Lakeview Orchestra, which the Church has allowed to use their space…read moreone night per week: this is a great place to rehearse compared to the other places our group previously played in. The space is a little tight up front but the sound is intimate and allows us to play a wide range of dynamics. Easy to get to, just west of Wrigley Field. Our orchestra board chair is a member of the church and spoke to their long tradition of supporting the arts and launching new organizations, which is a unique mission for a church in my experience. According to their lovely website they have a very open and welcoming atmosphere for which I congratulate them: "Holy Trinity is known for being a place of welcome. In the early 1990s it was one of the first "Reconciling in Christ" congregations in Chicago, publicly welcoming gays and lesbians. In the past decade young adults and a growing number of families with young children have found a home. At the same time, many people who have struggled with exclusive or hurtful forms of religion have breathed a sigh of relief within a community of acceptance and openness. A number of Chicago urban folks travel to our Lakeview location to find a spiritual home that is both rooted in ancient practices and in honest conversation with the questions and issues of our day and time."

Great Pastor with a genuine heart fir people, both lost and saved. Small community who care about…read moreeach other. Welcomed strangers...me

Sadly I went there for awhile. It was great in the beginning. Unfortunately one evening service the…read morepolice entered the church went straight to the pulpit and spoke directly to pastor Al Smith that he was under arrest. Pastor Smith called us to help stop them, but the officer turned to us and demanded that we not interfere with a lawful arrest so no one did. A handcuffed pastor Smith was marched out of the church. The wife Sherry explained the marriage was one of long time secret domestic abuse by Smith of her and the kids too. Smith while driving in a drunken rage kicked Sherry out of the moving vehicle which was seen by a Chicago police officer. He stopped the car and tried to arrest Smith but Sherry didn't want him arrested and wouldn't press charges, so he let them go. However the police officer a mandated reporter filed charges which led to Smith's arrest. We wondered why Sherry wore heavy makeup she said she had to do it to hide the bruises he left after beating her. Sherry later died of cancer, the boys at least one of them later had a history of law violations. Smith pastored a little while after this, then just left not saying where he was going. in 2012 he was pastoring a church and it was reported he had a stroke. I have no further info on his whereabouts or if he is living or dead.

We were in the city for an event and wanted to attend Mass somewhere close to our destination, so…read morewe ended up at Saint Clement Parish. I'm really glad we did because it turned out to be a wonderful church. The architecture is absolutely beautiful and has a majestic feel to it. It even reminded me a bit of an Orthodox church with its unique design and atmosphere. The parish community was incredibly warm and welcoming. After the morning Mass, they offered free coffee, muffins, and bread, which was a very thoughtful touch and gave everyone a chance to socialize. Overall, it was a great experience. The church is beautiful, the people are friendly, and it felt like a very welcoming place to worship. I would definitely love to come back again sometime in the future.

Saint Clement Church is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chicago, whether for…read morespiritual reflection, architecture, or cultural appreciation. I happen to be able to visit last summer, as they were one of the churches that hosted a regional event for the National Association of Pastoral Musicians. And I can confidently say that this miniature version of the Cathedral Basilica in St. Louis, Missouri - stands out for its breathtaking neo-Byzantine and Romanesque design, which combines intricate mosaics, soaring domes, and remarkable stained-glass windows. This is truly a place where faith and beauty is the perfect combination! The convenient mass times and devotional services are deeply uplifting, offering a sense of renewal and spiritual connection. The reverent yet welcoming atmosphere makes it accessible for both long-time parishioners and first-time visitors. The liturgy and sacred music, under the leadership and director of Mr. Jeremy Kiolbassa aka 'The Fabulous' truly elevates the worship experience, creating a serene environment for prayer or quiet contemplation. Beyond worship, the church itself is an architectural and artistic treasure. Every corner reveals exquisite artwork, from detailed marble carvings to vibrant mosaics depicting the life of the Virgin Mary. The quiet chapels throughout the basilica provide intimate spaces for reflection, and the outdoor gardens offer a peaceful retreat. For travelers, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a moment of peace in Lincoln Park, the church is a true gem. It is easy to access (with its own parking lot), very clean & well-maintained, and offers a welcoming experience for people of all ethnic backgrounds. Whether you're attending a Mass or simply admiring the incredible architecture, a visit here is both inspiring and rejuvenating.

This little church on the corner in Lincoln Park is where I call home. It has been my family ever…read moresince I walked in the doors over four years ago. We have two services at 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. There are a lot of really cool people that come every Sunday. The pastors are sound in their teaching and have a love for everyone there. I would strongly suggest that you come check it out ASAP! We love having newcomers to our community!

This historic church which has met on the corner of Seminary and Lill for almost 125 years has…read moreundergone some changes. What has been Seminary Avenue Community Church is now New Life Community Church, Lincoln Park. 3 blocks away from DePaul University and nestled into the Lincoln Park community, New Life is a church for Lincoln Park. In the morning there is a more traditional worship gathering with young families, couples, single people, and college students. In the evening there is a blue jeans and rock band environment called Shift. In both gatherings you'll encounter a vibrant, brand new congregation as the church has only been open since the spring of 2008! I would recommend checking out either service if you are looking for a great place to connect with God and learn more about Jesus...or even if you are not, it's still an awesome time!