Have you or someone in your family been wondering how we can safely serve others during the pandemic when social interaction is limited? It takes a little creative thinking but there are definitely people who need help during these times that we can serve. Keep reading for suggestions.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”~ Mark 10:45
Read MoreThis event hopes to support parents and families as our community and city works to change the systems that add to inequality and systemic racism. We hope, through the rally, to share a simple message of experience, strength, and hope for families and especially, children of color. The Black Lives Matter: A Family Rally for Racial Justice would like to quiet the fear that children and families may be feeling in light of the protests in our city.
Read More"Please join us for our third meeting as we talk about what actionable steps we are taking as a group to make St. Bens a more inclusive place"
Read MoreMay 13, 2020
Dear Friends in Christ, These fifty days of Easter, leading to Pentecost, are marked by unprecedented suffering, as humanity has fallen victim to a perilous contagion. In addition to the threats to our physical wellbeing, we are suffering spiritually as the Covid-19 pandemic has required restrictions of our worship and active participation in the sacramental life of the Church. Surely, there have been moments in history when governments and rulers have persecuted Christians and banned their public worship. This is not one of them. Rather, the present restrictions come in response to an extreme medical emergency as local, state and federal authorities – specifically public health officials – legitimately fulfil their responsibilities to safeguard human life and the common good…
Read MoreBased on current guidelines from local public health departments, which recommend the cancellation of public gatherings involving 250 or more people, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, mandated the suspension until further notice of all liturgical services effective Saturday evening with the regularly scheduled weekend services. In addition, he has mandated the closing of schools operated by the archdiocese, and to close the Pastoral Center and related agency offices until further notice.
Read MoreMarch 24th, 2020
As all residents of the state comply with the order to stay at home and refrain from non-essential activities, we are nonetheless painfully aware that being cut off from the sacramental life of the church, especially the Eucharist, creates a great hardship for our people, indeed for all of us. However, we make this sacrifice for the common good, convinced that we, like all citizens, have a responsibility in preventing the spread of COVID-19. In fact, doing so will ensure that our people can return to the sacraments as soon as possible…
Read MoreMarch 20th, 2020
Governor Pritzker's mandatory shelter-in-place order for the State of Illinois means the following for our parishes effective 5 p.m. Saturday, March 21 through Tuesday, April 7…
Read MoreMarch 19, 2020
Based on current guidelines from local public health departments, which recommend the cancellation of public gatherings involving 250 or more people, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, mandated the suspension until further notice of all liturgical services effective Saturday evening with the regularly scheduled weekend services. In addition, he has mandated the closing of schools operated by the archdiocese, and to close the Pastoral Center and related agency offices until further notice.
Read MoreThe ALPHA series will begin again for teens on Wednesday, March 4th. ALPHA will run until Wednesday,…
Read MoreThere are few experiences in my life that have reminded me so profoundly of the size of the Body of Christ as the first night of each National Catholic Youth Conference I have attended, reminds me. An experience of parish or of high school can feel large but to see 20,000 people who are gathered because we have commonality in being followers of Christ, fills me with awe each time I experience it.
Read MoreStudents of the parish in grades 5 through high school are invited to take part in this rewarding ministry. Training will be scheduled in November…
Read MoreAt St Ben’s there is a safe space for all kids willing to volunteer, help, serve and lead in our community. I am forever grateful for the positivity and opportunity that Youth Ministry offers.
Read MoreHow do we help our children find peace of heart through the practice of faith?
Read MoreHow do we help our children find peace of heart through the practice of faith?
Read More“Preparing and going to NCYC was nerve-racking. I had no idea what to expect from this type of conference. All of my doubts and worries quickly diminished as I realized that I was surrounded by 25,000 other teenagers who were also there to learn more about their faith. Every single day was full of keynote speakers, smaller group reflections, singing, and meeting new people from all across the country. Some of my favorite speakers…”
Read MoreI want to remember the excitement, the fun, the people, the quotes, and the community. During the week, I felt so close to God and I was so content. I learned a lot. Emi Giagrande
Read MoreI want to remember all the friends that I made from all over the country, from California to Canada. I also want to remember all the lessons I got out of the talks and the stories of grace. They had guest speakers come in and talk about God but also about life, and things that happen in life. I’ve gotten to take away so many lessons. I will also never forget the welcoming community and all my friends. I will cherish the memories I made forever
Read MoreYouth Ministry needs a few hours of your time for a GOOD Cause!
Read More
