Back in March, the Viatorians assumed stewardship of Sacred Heart Church, a small faith community in Pembroke Township, Illinois, part of our Bourbonnais-Kankakee region in the Diocese of Joliet. In this podcast episode, a few Viatorians who serve there offer a fuller introduction of the church and the community.
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Bishop Christopher Glancy, CSV, is the parochial administrator of Sacred Heart, as well as pastor of St. Patrick Church in Kankakee. He tells us how at Sacred Heart they have a small church that can seat around 100, a cozy community hall and kitchen downstairs, and lovely grounds, including a playset and picnic pavilion. “At one of our first meetings, someone said, ‘you know, father, this is sacred ground,’” Bishop Glancy said.
The community that gathers there reminds Fr. Moses Mesh, CSV of his home village in his native Belize. Fr. Moses often comes down from his primary ministry and home at Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Bourbonnais to celebrate Mass, visit with community members, and lead rosaries and crafting gatherings. “People come together, a very small group, to pray. And people come with their faith,” Fr. Moses said. “It’s a very integrative small church. I’m very pleased to be a part of it and serving there. It will help me understand how diversity works here in the United States.”
Some highlights from the welcome Mass and meal when we first started in March.
For over 25 years, Associates Ken and Michelle Barrie have been leading service projects around Pembroke Township. They are elated to continue their work with and for these neighbors and now to do so with formal Viatorian involvement and leadership. Michelle particularly loved the teamwork that went into their first church cleanup day. “The turnout was fantastic. There were 25 people from both African-American families and Hispanic families. It was a great blend of the new parish, and ended with a cookout, cookies, and sharing under the pavilion,” Michelle said. “We got a lot done, and it brought the community closer.”
Hear more about the great community in Pembroke Township, the providential fit for the Viatorian charism and mission, including echoes of Fr. Querbes’ Vourles parish, and more stories of joy and ministry with our newest parishioners and community members. Episode 94 is available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.