Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

The Man of the Shroud Exhibit coming to Vandalia
2023-09-08 - 2023-09-14 | Mother of Dolors Parish Center, 705 N. St. Clair St., Vandalia, IL, 62471, United States
You are invited to see a replica of the Shroud of Turin, which is believed by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus, and to learn about the history and science behind it by experiencing The Man of the Shroud Exhibit, coming to Mother of Dolors Parish in Vandalia for display Sept. 8-14.
The Shroud is one of the most scientifically studied religious icons in history. As science has progressed, so has the speculation on how the image of the crucified man of the Shroud was made. After decades of exhaustive and medical, historical, and scientific research, the Center for the Study of the Passion of the Christ and the Holy Shroud has developed a moving and informative mobile exhibit on the Shroud of Turin.
The centerpiece is a full-length canvas replica of the Shroud made by the Shroud of Turin Education and Research Association, Inc. In addition, the mobile exhibit contains a large, crucified corpus showing the wounds of Christ corresponding to the passion narrative in the Gospel accounts and the wounds shown on the Shroud. The exhibit contains over 31 popup display banners detailing the history and science of the Shroud. The Conventual Franciscan Friars of the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe at Marytown in Libertyville are making this exhibit possible in Vandalia.
To check it out, visit Mother of Dolors Parish Center at 705 N. St. Clair St., Vandalia, IL 62471. There is no charge, and it’s open to the public.
The exhibit is open on the following days and times:
Sept. 8: 5-7p.m.
Sept. 9: Noon-2 p.m.; 5-7 p.m.
Sept 10: 1-4 p.m., with Shroud scholar Mark Antonacci giving a talk at 2 p.m.
Sept. 11: 10 a.m.-noon; 5-7 p.m.
Sept. 12: 10 a.m.-noon; 5-7 p.m.
Sept. 13: 10 a.m.-noon; 5-7 p.m.
Sept. 14: 10 a.m.-noon
On Friday, Sept. 15 through Sunday, Sept. 17, Father Lawrence Carney will give a retreat on the “Devotion to the Holy Face” at Our Sorrowful Mother’s Ministry in Vandalia, which will also include the Man of the Shroud Exhibit. More information can be found by visiting: osmm.org

50th Wedding Anniversary Mass
2023-09-24 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 East Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, IL, United States
The 50 Years or More Wedding Anniversary Mass will be held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield IL on Sunday, September 24 beginning at 2:00 pm. All couples from throughout the Diocese and their families are invited to participate. All those celebrating milestone anniversaries will receive a certificate. All others, upon request. A light reception will follow the Mass. To register for the event, please click here.

Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Convention, "Christ is Alive"
2023-09-27 08:00 - 16:30
Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women announce convention, “Christ is Alive”– Wednesday, Sept. 27, will be the 95th annual Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (SDCCW) Convention. This year’s program, “Christ is Alive,” takes place from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Griffin High School’s west campus in Springfield. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki will be the main celebrant of the Mass at St. Agnes Church at 11 a.m., which is next to the school campus. Key-note speaker, Cathy Becker, the director faith formation for St. Agnes Parish, will give a talk titled, “New maps for a new landscape.” Her talk will guide participants in looking at the changing landscape of people involved in our faith, find the fixed landmarks, and how to chart a new map with new routes to bring people back to the faith, engage new seekers of the faith, and find hope in our faith. Registration is $50 and includes morning refreshments and lunch. Register through your parish or here. Questions, contact Janet Zimmerman at Janetzim14@yahoo.com or 217-494-4743.

Blue Mass for first responders
2023-10-01 10:00 | Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 East Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, IL, United States
Bishop Paprocki will celebrate a Blue Mass for emergency responders to pray for their safety and continued diligence in their work and to thank them for their selfless commitment to taking care of people in our communities. Sunday, Oct. 1 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield.

Annual Respect Life and Rosary Walk
2023-10-07 09:00 - 21:00 | Holy Family Catholic Church, Granite City, 2606 Washington Ave, Granite City, IL, 62040, United States
This year’s annual Diocesan Respect Life Mass and prayer procession is scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at Holy Family Parish in Granite City (2606 Washington Ave, Granite City, IL). Bishop Paprocki will celebrate Mass at 9 a.m., followed by a prayer procession around the abortion facility in Granite City. Lunch and speaker will follow the procession.

White Mass for healthcare workers
2023-10-18 17:00 | St. Francis of Assisi Church on the Grounds of Corpus Christi Priory, 4875 LaVerna Rd., Springfield, IL, United States
Bishop Paprocki will celebrate a White Mass for those who work in healthcare to pray for their safety and continued diligence in their work and to thank them for their selfless commitment to taking care of people in our communities. Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church on the grounds of Corpus Christi Priory in Springfield (4875 LaVerna Rd.)

Mass in remembrance of miscarried babies
2023-10-24 18:30 | St. Mary’s Church in Edwardsville, 1802 Madison Avenue, Edwardsville, IL, United States
The Daughters of Isabella Circle 218 is inviting the public to attend a special Mass in remembrance of miscarried babies. All are welcome! The Mass will be held October 24 at 6:30pm at St. Mary’s Church in Edwardsville (1802 Madison Avenue). To have a baby’s name or family name displayed on a card with a candle during Mass, please email the baby/family name and whether you will attend to: daughtersofisabella218@gmail.com. The information can also be mailed or dropped off at the St. Mary’s Church office. Attendees/families will receive a fresh flower and prayer card after the Mass. RSVP not necessary but appreciated by Sunday, October 17th.

Eucharistic Congress
2023-10-28 10:30 - 17:30
This Eucharistic Congress will be a spiritually uplifting and motivating event featuring talks from nationally popular Catholic speakers Sister M. Karolyn Nunes, FSGM, Father Chase Hilgenbrinck, Father Denis Robinson, OSB, and Dr. Scott Hahn. It also includes Catholic vendors, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, confession, a showing of the documentary God is Alive | Incredible stories of faith and miraculous events in Central Illinois, and a showing of The Chair, which highlights the beauty of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield and the history of the diocese. The day culminates with the very essence of the Year of the Eucharist, the Mass, with an arena full of Catholics eager to hear the Word of God and receive Jesus present in the holy Eucharist.
Click here for more information.

Go see local artist's beautiful pieces about the Eucharist/Catholic faith at QU's Brenner Library
2023-10-30 - 2023-12-01
Dozens of beautiful pieces of visual art on the theme of the holy Eucharist, the Mass, Jesus, and Mary all created by artists who live in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois will be on display for viewing at Quincy University’s Brenner Library Oct. 30 – Dec. 1.
The list of pieces includes paintings, photographs, calligraphy art, liturgical objects, among other artwork, created by artists ranging in age of 4 to 60 years old. Explanations on how the pieces fit with the theme of the holy Eucharist and our faith will also help provide visitors with a better understanding of Catholicism. The display, organized by Jessica Howell, the Campus Minister at Quincy University, is being assembled as part of the diocesan Year of the Eucharist going on now, which is part of the nationwide Eucharistic Revival.
The Brenner Library is open Monday-Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; and Sunday from 5 p.m.-11 p.m. The display (Oct. 30 – Dec. 1) is free and open to the public.

Benedictine College Catholic Missionsand Job Fair
2023-11-09

National Catholic Youth Conference
2023-11-16 - 2023-11-18
NCYC is a powerfully unique three-day experience of prayer, community, and empowerment for Catholic high school teenagers at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. The event includes large group gatherings with inspiring keynote speakers, workshops for teens and adults, and lots of time to meet teens from all over the country in a fun and faith-filled environment. NCYC also includes daily Mass, a reconciliation room, interactive prayer experiences, and lots of special activities such as Catholic music artists, an exhibit hall with lots of Catholic stuff, and an interactive park for young people to be able to express their creativity in praise of our Lord, Jesus Christ! A delegation from the diocese is organizing to participate in this event. To register, contact Kyle Holtgrave in the Office for Catholic Education at kholtgrave@dio.org, or call (217) 698-8500, ext. 154.

Night of Worship and Adoration
2023-11-16 18:00 - 19:30 | St Anthony Church, 101 E Virginia Ave, Effingham, IL, 62401, United States
Come to St. Anthony Church in Effingham on Nov. 16 from 6-7:30 p.m. for a night for worship and adoration. There will be a keynote talk by Mary Bielski, confessions, praise and worship, and adoration of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

Pursuing your spouse's heart dinner and talk
2023-11-18 17:00 | Effingham Event Center, 1501 W Fayette Ave, Effingham, IL, 62401, United States
Come to a special evening with your spouse. Featuring Dana Nygaard, a passionate Catholic speaker dedicated to growing your and your spouse’s relationships with Christ. Saturday, Nov. 18 at the Effingham Event Center (1501 W Fayette Ave, Effingham, IL 62401). Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner is served at 6 p.m., and the speaker begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at Sacred Heart Parish in Effingham or through this link. All couples will receive a copy of Dana’s book, 365 Dates to Renew Your Christian Marriage.

Red Mass for those in the legal profession
2023-11-19 10:15 | St. Boniface Church, Edwardsville, IL, United States
Bishop Paprocki will celebrate a Red Mass for those in the legal profession such as lawyers, law students, judges, legislators, city council members, and others to invoke God’s blessings upon the members of the bench, bar, legislature, law enforcement, and governmental agencies and all protectors and administrators of the Law. Sunday, Nov. 19 at 10:15 a.m. a St. Boniface Church in Edwardsville.

Women's Mini Retreat
2023-12-07 17:30 - 20:30 | Villa Maria Retreat Center, 1903 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL, 62712, United States
Dates: Thursday, December 7, 2023.
Time: 5:30 P.M – 8:30 P.M.
Location: Villa Maria Retreat Center
1903 E Lake Shore Dr
Springfield, IL 62712

Who: Catholic Women 18+
Meals: Dinner will be provided
Cost: Free
Other: Join 3 of the Sisters of Life from New York for an evening of prayer, food, and fellowship.

For questions about the event, please contact Daniel Heffernan at dheffernan@dio.org.
Register

FacebookThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Registration Option(Required)

Register

Wait List
Name(Required)

First

Last

Email(Required)

Phone(Required)Date of Birth(Required)MonthMonth123456789101112DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920Address

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific
State

ZIP Code

Parish(Required)Alexander, Visitation of the BVMAltamont, St. ClareAlton, Ss. Peter and PaulAlton, St. MaryArcola, St. John the BaptistArenzville, St. FidelisAshland, St. AugustineAssumption, Assumption of the BVMAthens, Holy FamilyAuburn, Holy CrossBeardstown, St. AlexiusBenld, St. JosephBethalto, Our Lady Queen of PeaceBethany, St. IsidoreBrighton, St. AlphonsusBrussels, Blessed TrinityCamp Point, St. ThomasCarlinville, Ss. Mary and JosephCarrollton, St. John the EvangelistCasey, St. Charles BorromeoCharleston, St. Charles BorromeoChatham, St. Joseph the WorkerCollinsville, Ss. Peter and PaulDecatur, Holy FamilyDecatur, Our Lady of LourdesDecatur, Ss. James and PatrickDecatur, St. Thomas the ApostleDieterich, St. Isidore the FarmerEdgewood, St. AnneEdwardsville, St. BonifaceEdwardsville, St. MaryEffingham, Sacred HeartEffingham, St. Anthony of PaduaEffingham (Green Creek), St. Mary Help of ChristiansFarmersville, St. MaryFieldon, St. MaryFranklin, Sacred HeartGillespie, Ss. Simon and JudeGirard, St. PatrickGlen Carbon, St. CeciliaGodfrey, St. AmbroseGrafton, St. PatrickGranite City, Holy FamilyGranite City, St. ElizabethGrantfork, St. GertrudeGreenfield, St. MichaelGreenup, Christ the KingGreenville, St. LawrenceHardin, St. Francis of AssisiHighland, St. PaulHillsboro, St. AgnesHume, St. MichaelIlliopolis, ResurrectionJacksonville, Our SaviourJerseyville, Holy GhostJerseyville, St. Francis XavierKincaid, St. RitaLiberty, St. BrigidLillyville, Sacred HeartLitchfield, Holy FamilyLivingston, Sacred HeartMadison, St. Mary and St. MarkMarine, St. ElizabethMarshall, St. MaryMaryville, Mother of Perpetual HelpMattoon, Immaculate ConceptionMedora, St. John the EvangelistMendon, St. EdwardMontrose, St. Rose of LimaMorrisonville, St. MauriceMoweaqua, St. Francis DeSalesMt. Olive, St. John Paul IIMt. Sterling, Holy FamilyMt. Zion, Our Lady of the Holy SpiritNeoga, St. Mary of the AssumptionNew Berlin, Sacred Heart of MaryNewton, St. Thomas the ApostleNokomis, St. LouisNorth Arm, St. AloysiusOblong, Our Lady of LourdesOconee, Sacred HeartPana, St. PatrickParis, St. MaryPetersburg, St. PeterPierron, Immaculate ConceptionPittsfield, St. MaryPocahontas, St. NicholasQuincy, Blessed SacramentQuincy, St. Anthony of PaduaQuincy, St. Francis SolanusQuincy, St. JosephQuincy, St. PeterQuincy, St. Rose of LimaRamsey, St. JosephRaymond, St. RaymondRiverton, St. JamesRobinson, St. ElizabethRochester, St. JudeSainte Marie, St. Mary of the AssumptionShelbyville, Immaculate ConceptionSherman, St. John VianneyShumway, AnnunciationSigel, St. Michael the ArchangelSpringfield, Blessed SacramentSpringfield, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Springfield, Christ the KingSpringfield, Little FlowerSpringfield, St. AgnesSpringfield, St. AloysiusSpringfield, St. Frances Xavier CabriniSpringfield, St. JosephSpringfield, St. Katharine DrexelSt. Elmo, St. MarySt. Jacob, St. JamesStaunton, St. Michael the ArchangelStonington, Holy TrinitySullivan, St. ColumcilleTaylorville, St. MaryTeutopolis, St. Francis of AssisiTroy, St. JeromeTuscola, Forty MartyrsVandalia, Mother of DolorsVilla Grove, Sacred HeartVirden, Sacred HeartVirginia, St. LukeWaverly, St. SebastianWhite Hall, All SaintsWinchester, St. MarkWood River, Holy AngelsQuincy, St. Lawrence chapel at the Illinois Veterans HomeCharleston, Eastern Illinois University Newman CommunityEdwardsville, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Newman CommunityDecatur, Millikin Newman CommunityQuincy, Quincy UniversitySpringfield, University of Illinois - Springfield Catholic CommunityOther - Outside of DioceseAlton, Marquette Catholic High SchoolAlton, St. Mary SchoolBethalto, Our Lady Queen of Peace SchoolBrussels, St. Mary SchoolCarrollton, St. John the Evangelist SchoolChatham, St. Joseph the Worker Pre-SchoolCollinsville, Ss. Peter and Paul SchoolDecatur, Holy Family Catholic SchoolDecatur, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic SchoolDecatur, St. Patrick SchoolDecatur, St. Teresa High SchoolEdwardsville, St. Boniface Catholic SchoolEdwardsville, St. Mary Grade SchoolEffingham, Sacred Heart SchoolEffingham, St. Anthony of Padua Grade SchoolEffingham, St. Anthony of Padua High SchoolGlen Carbon, Father McGivney Catholic High SchoolGodfrey, St. Ambrose SchoolGranite City, Holy Family SchoolGranite City, St. Elizabeth SchoolHardin, St. Norbert SchoolHighland, St. Paul Catholic SchoolHillsboro, St. Agnes Pre-SchoolJacksonville, Our Saviour Grade SchoolJacksonville, Routt Catholic High SchoolJerseyville, St. Francis-Holy Ghost Catholic SchoolMaryville, St. John Neumann Catholic SchoolMt. Sterling, St. Mary SchoolMt. Zion, Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Pre-SchoolNewton, St. Thomas the Apostle SchoolNokomis, St. Louis SchoolPana, Sacred Heart SchoolQuincy, Blessed Sacrament Catholic SchoolQuincy, Quincy Notre Dame High SchoolQuincy, St. Dominic SchoolQuincy, St. Francis Solanus SchoolQuincy, St. Peter SchoolSigel, St. Michael the Archangel SchoolSpringfield, Blessed Sacrament SchoolSpringfield, Christ the King SchoolSpringfield, Little Flower Catholic SchoolSpringfield, Sacred Heart-Griffin High SchoolSpringfield, St. Agnes SchoolSpringfield, St. Aloysius SchoolSpringfield, St. Patrick Catholic SchoolTaylorville, St. Mary SchoolAlton, Catholic Children's HomeAlton, Madison County Catholic CharitiesBeardstown, The St. Anne ResidenceCarlinville, Carlinville Catholic CharitiesDecatur, Catholic Charities of DecaturEffingham, Effingham Catholic CharitiesGranite City, Madison County Catholic CharitiesMattoon, Catholic Charities of Coles, Douglas and Edgar CountiesQuincy, Quincy Catholic CharitiesSpringfield, Springfield Catholic Charities Administrative OfficesSpringfield, Springfield Catholic CharitiesSpringfield, St. Clare's Health ClinicSpringfield, St. John's BreadlineSan Damiano College for the TradesWaterloo, Ss. Peter and PaulEmergency Contact Name(Required)

First

Last

Emergency Contact Phone(Required)Emergency Contact Email(Required)

Are you in high school?(Required)

Yes

No
Photo Release(Required)I hereby authorize the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois and its agents to utilize photographic and/or video images of me by the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois. In giving my consent, I hereby indemnify and hold harmless the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois and its agents from any and all responsibility of liability. I understand that I will receive no compensation should any photograph and/or video of me be used.

Yes

No
Dietary Restrictions(Required)Comments(Required)eSignature(Required)

SEEK 2024 in St. Louis
2024-01-01 - 2024-01-05
You’re always being called deeper into relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church – come and see what’s next! Experience truth, beauty, and goodness; hear from renowned speakers, events, entertainment, sponsors and more! Find out what it means to Be the Light. We are not made to be alone! Connect with peers, come together with the greater Church, and journey together. SEEK24 will take place at the America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis, Missouri from Monday, January 1 to Friday, January 5, 2024. Tickets, schedule, speakers, FAQ and more: https://seek.focus.org/

9 Days for Life Novena
2024-01-16 - 2024-01-24
Sign-up here for the 9 Days for Life Novena, January 16-24, 2024, for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. Participants can download the novena or sign up to receive the daily prayers via email or text message.

Prayer Service For Illinois Legislative Session
2024-01-16 17:30 - 18:30

World Marriage Day celebration in St. Louis
2024-02-11 12:00
On Sunday, February 11 at the 12:00 pm Mass, Auxiliary Bishop Mark S. Rivituso will celebrate a Mass for World Marriage Day at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, 4431 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO. A reception will follow in Boland Hall. All married couples are invited to attend and celebrate the gift of marriage. World Marriage Day honors husband and wife as the foundation of the family – the basic unit of society. It emphasizes the faithfulness, sacrifice and joy of daily married life. World Marriage Day started in Baton Rouge, LA in 1981 and was later adopted by Worldwide Marriage Encounter, who now is sponsoring this event on February 11.

Gospel Mass and Soul Food Luncheon
2024-02-25 10:00
In recognition of Black History Month, all are invited to a Gospel Mass and Soul Food Luncheon, hosted by the Black Catholic Commission. Sunday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m., Church of the Little Flower, Springfield. The Soul Food Luncheon follows Mass and is $15/person. Register for luncheon HERE.

Lenten Retreat for Women
2024-02-27 - 2024-02-28 | Villa Maria Catholic Life Center, 1903 East Lake Shore Drive, Springfield, 62712, United States
The Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (SDCCW) is sponsoring a Lenten retreat Feb. 27-28 at the Villa Maria Catholic Life Center, located at 1903 East Lake Shore Drive on Lake Springfield. The retreat will feature spiritual presentations, prayer, time for personal reflection, Mass, confession, and fellowship. The retreat begins with registration and a light breakfast at 9 a.m., on Tuesday, Feb. 27 and concludes after lunch on Wednesday, Feb. 28.
The subject of the retreat is “Gathered in Worship,” and the speaker is Father Richard Chiola, pastor emeritus of St. Francis Cabrini Parish in Springfield. Father Chiola holds a doctorate in historical theology and a master’s degree in human development counseling. Since he was named a senior priest in 2015, he has offered multiple retreats and workshops for priests, religious sisters, seminarians and lay people throughout the United States, Central America, and the South Pacific. He served in many parishes and taught at Yale University and SIU School of Medicine. Additionally, he has been a chaplain at University of Chicago, a theological consultant for Hospital Sisters Health System, has authored two books, and has a private practice in spiritual direction.
Retreat costs include meals, refreshments, retreat materials, and use of the facility. Of course, all participants will listen to Father Chiola’s presentations as well. The cost for an overnight stay, single occupancy (if available) is $120. The cost for an overnight stay, double occupancy is $100. Commuters pay $70.
Contact your parish office, your women’s group, or your deanery information for additional information and a registration form, or email Mary Ann Sullivan at gma.sullivan80@gmail.com or phone (217) 463-2435. The registration fee is payable to S.D.C.C.W. by Feb. 17.

Faith & Fortitude: A presentation on Bishop James Aloysius Griffin
2024-02-28 18:00
Faith & Fortitude: A presentation on Bishop James Aloysius Griffin
Join us for a free presentation on the life of the first bishop of Springfield, Bishop James Griffin, presented by the Office for Archives and Record Management from the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois. It takes place Wednesday, February 28 at 6 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield (after the 5:15 p.m.) Mass. Soup and water will be offered.

Sacred Story Retreat for women
2024-03-01 17:00 - 2024-03-03 13:00 | Villa Maria Retreat Center, 1903 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, IL, 62712, United States
Sacred Story Retreat March 1-3 in Springfield is a retreat for women who want to experience healing and renewal in Christ. Using materials from Forty Weeks: An Ignatian Path to Christ with Sacred Story Prayer (by Father Bill Watson, SJ), we guide you through a process of reconciling your past to Christ. You will be given helpful resources that teach you a daily 15-minute prayer practice called Examen Prayer. For this retreat, please pre-purchase the book found on Amazon: Forth Weeks Book. The retreat is sponsored by Regnum Christi St. Louis and All Things Women.
Beginning Friday, March 1 at 5 p.m. and finishing Sunday, March 3 at 1 p.m., the retreat takes place at the Villa Maria Retreat Center in Springfield (1903 W E Lake Shore Dr.). The cost is $275 shared room + bath or $325 single room + bath. Sign up here. For more information, contact Maria Rivero at stlouis@regnumchristi.org or call 610-717-8678).

Families! Connect with God, have fun, and create memories all in one day
2024-03-02 08:00 - 19:00
Families are invited to attend a grace-filled and fun-filled one-day experience all intended for them to reconnect with God. Mini Holy Family Fest takes place Sat., March 2 at Quincy Notre Dame High School (1400 S 11th St) in Quincy. The day runs from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and includes Mass, confession, Eucharistic adoration, talks for adults, teens, and children, praying the Rosary, games, activities, and more. Price is $25 for one person, $45 for two, $65 for three, and $75 for four or more. The price includes lunch and dinner. The keynote speakers are Carlos and Elena Tejada of Springfield. Register here. For questions, email quincyholyfamilyfest@gmail.com or call 217-440-8187.

Leading theologian coming to Vandalia in April to give talk on Mary
2024-04-19 14:00 - 2024-04-21 09:00
Looking to experience a weekend of grace and grow in deep knowledge of our faith? Our Sorrowful Mother’s Ministry (318 N. 8th Street) in Vandalia is hosting a series of talks from Father Aidan Nichols, one of the brightest theological minds in the Catholic Church.
“Through his love of the sacred page and as a faithful guide to the Church’s theological inheritance, Father Nichols has helped many to encounter the Truth, who is Christ,” said Father Seth Brown, pastor of Mother of Dolors Parish in Vandalia.
The three-day event will feature talks, prayer, and Mass. It starts on April 19 at 2 p.m. and concludes on Sunday April 21 at 9 a.m. The focus of Father Nichols talks will center on that while the Church is founded on St. Peter, it is founded in Mary. Father Nichols will discuss healing through deep prayer leaning on Our Lady of the Church. The cost is $45. To register, go to osmm.org/retreats.
Born at Lytham St. Anne’s (England) in 1948 and educated at Arnold School and the Universities of Oxford and Edinburgh, Father Nichols entered the Order of Preachers in 1970 and was ordained a priest in 1976. He has taught at several seminaries around the world. He held the Pope John Paul II Memorial Lectureship in Roman Catholic Theology between 2006-2008. He is currently staying with Canons Regular from St. Michaels’s Abbey in Orange County, Calif.

Church Bells and Air Raid Sirens: The faith response to help Ukraine
2024-05-08 15:00 | Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, 4930 Laverna Rd., Springfield, IL, United States
What:
A presentation by Erica Smith, executive director of Mission Outreach, about her recent visit to Ukraine to visit Catholic and other faith-based service providers in Ukraine.
ZOOM LINK ALSO AVAILABLE — email erica.smith@mission-outreach.org

Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, an affiliate of Hospital Sisters Health System, participates as a partner with the Catholic Response for Ukraine, a group that works on behalf of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development at the Vatican. Thanks to the partnerships created by this group, Mission Outreach shipped a 40-foot container of requested medical supplies and equipment to Ukraine in April 2023.
Erica Smith, executive director, was invited to travel to Ukraine in April 2024 with representatives from the International Catholic Migration Commission, Knights of Columbus, and Catholic Health Association to learn what other needs are
present.
During that visit, Erica learned about the Catholic response in Ukraine and collaboration with people of other faiths to meet the educational, health, and social needs of Ukrainians – particularly those who have been internally displaced by war that those seeking to care for them.
In this presentation, Erica will talk about how faith communities are working to address the needs of Ukrainians and how Mission Outreach (in partnership with members of the Catholic Response for Ukraine) will continue to be involved in short- and long-term recovery efforts, even as the conflict continues. Erica will also share photos and stories about meeting with Latin Catholic leaders in Ukraine, including the Archbishop of Lviv and the Archbishop of Kyiv (who also serves as the Papal Nuncio).

Confirmation for Adults at Pentecost
2024-05-19 14:00
For adults who have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation, a special celebration is scheduled for Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield. For details, please visit https://dio.org/catechesis/sacramental-prep/#sp-tabs-2. Questions? Contact Kyle Holtgrave at kholtgrave@dio.org (217) 698-8500, ext. 154.

Come to the Priest Ordination Mass
2024-05-25 10:00
Come support the five men who will be ordained priests by coming to the ordination Mass on Saturday, May 25 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield. The five, who are currently deacons, are: Daneil McGrath, Jayke White, Troy Niemerg, Alex McCullough, and Bruce Scott. This celebration is certainly a high point for our diocese with a beautiful liturgy and music, nearly every priest and deacon in our diocese in attendance, and a powerful scene of following the Lord’s call. If you cannot make the ordination, you can watch it live online on the Cathedral’s YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@cathedraloftheimmaculateco1581.

Celebrate Memorial Day by attending the Memorial Day Field Mass
2024-05-27 09:00
You are invited to the Memorial Day Field Mass at Calvary Cemetery in Springfield on May 27 at 9 a.m. The Mass will be at the Father Howard Altar. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki is the celebrant. Accompanying Bishop Paprocki in procession will be priests and members of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus. Limited seating will be available under the tent. Lawn chairs are welcome. Transportation will be available to assist visitors from the main gate to the Mass site. Call the Calvary Cemetery office at 523-3726 Monday – Friday from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. with any questions.

50th Annual Day of Prayer for Life to be celebrated June 19
2024-06-19 | St. Francis of Assisi, 203 East Main Street, Teutopolis, IL, 62467, United States
By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN
Managing Editor
TEUTOPOLIS — On Wednesday, June 19 the 50th Annual Day of Prayer for Life will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 203 E. Main St. in Teutopolis. That day Effingham Area Right to Life (formerly Effingham County Right to Life) and St. Francis Church once again invite everyone to come and pray for renewed respect for all human life, and reparation for our nation, for allowing 65 million preborn human lives to be ended since 1973, said Angie Esker, the chairperson of the Day of Prayer for Life and the chair of the St. Francis Social Concerns Committee.
The year’s Day of Prayer will begin with Mass at 8 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Exposition and Adoration. Following 10 hours of adoration by groups from a number of parishes from various towns, organizations, and the Knights of Columbus Councils, Benediction will take place at 7 p.m. In honor of the 50-year anniversary of the event, Bishop Thomas John Paprocki will be the celebrant of the closing Mass, which will take place at 7:30 p.m. Refreshments will follow in St. Clare Hall, which is adjoining to the church.
The Day of Prayer was initially started thanks to the late Loretta (Mrs. Jack) Koester, a board member of Effingham County Right to Life, who was the main organizer of the event until her health began to fail. Koester was quoted as saying the day “was a prayerful day that is dedicated to end abortion and ask God’s forgiveness.”
Koester passed away on Feb. 9, 2017, at age 91. In addition to her husband, Jack, who was active in helping with the Day of Prayer, there were many other faithful assistants to Koester in the early years, most who have since passed away.
“Loretta still played a major role in the 2016 Day of Prayer, although her health was failing,” said Esker. “She didn’t want to give it up totally until she couldn’t physically do it anymore.” A few years after her passing, Koester’s grandson, Father Dominic Vahling, as a newly-ordained priest, celebrated the closing Mass for the Day of Prayer. It was a moving day for those who knew and admired Koester.
Koester lived long enough to see Effingham Planned Parenthood permanently close their doors in the late summer of 2016. Of course, in June 2022 the United States Supreme Court issued its decision of Dobbs v. Jackson — overturning the decision of Roe v.. Wade, which had declared abortion to be a constitutional right — restoring the ability of the states to ban abortions. Illinois, of course, still allows abortions.
Esker believes those who pray at the Annual Day of Prayer for Life have not given up. “I think ‘faithful in prayer for the protection of life’ is what we do,” said Esker, adding that they are praying for a return to the overall culture of life. “I know we may not always see the successes, especially in our state of Illinois, but as Mother Teresa said, ‘God does not require that we be successful only that we be faithful’ and Hebrews 11:1 says, ‘Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.’”
Esker said that the pro-life committee in Teutopolis is thankful for the generosity of the Franciscan pastors at St. Francis Church who have generously hosted the Day of Prayer for Life for the past 50 years. She adds that St. Francis Social Concerns Committee has also been instrumental in helping her with the details of the day.
The Day of Prayer has spanned generations, says Liz Kremer, a board member of Effingham Area Right to Life who also helps with event. “My mom and dad were involved from the get-go. I was still in high school when Roe v. Wade happened,” she said. “Through the years, being pro-life has been engrained in our family. My two sisters, me, their kids, and grandkids, three generations are still in this fight.”
About the Day of Prayer, another Effingham Area Right to Life board member Judy Repking, concluded, “We are the faithful storming the heavens with our prayers, pleading for an end to abortion and for the protection of life.”
