Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

Sisters to host 'A Day of Rest at The Woods' retreat
2025-04-05 09:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Those who need more peace and rest in their life are invited to join the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, for the upcoming “A Day of Rest at The Woods” retreat.
The retreat will take place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., on Saturday, April 5. Other retreats have also been scheduled for Saturday, July 19 and Saturday, Nov. 1. The times for the remaining retreats are the same.
There are messages we hear in our culture that suggest if we work harder, we will produce more and do better. But that can make us feel tired and disheartened. We can hear the need for rest if we listen to our bodies. If we listen to our hearts, we might hear our Creator whisper that we are beloved images of the Divine. How can you listen?
Join facilitators Sister Mary Montgomery, SP, Providence Associate Marilyn Webb and others while enjoying purposeful quiet and contemplation while having the options to join others in prayer, meet with a spiritual director, spend time alone and rest in many sacred places at the Woods.
Cost is $75 for each day, which includes the option of a private room, box lunch and spiritual direction. Lodging is available upon request for an additional fee.
The registration deadline to attend the first retreat is April 3.
Register online at www.Events.SistersofProvidence.org or by calling 812-535-2952 or emailing provctr@spsmw.org.

Infertility Support During Lent
2025-04-03 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-03-27 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-03-20 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-03-13 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-03-06 19:00 - 20:15
This Lenten season, allow yourself to be Carried. Springs in the Desert is proud to offer our first-ever hardcover Lenten devotional: Carried: A Desert Companion.
Our beautiful, full color, pocket-sized Carried Desert Companion may be purchased by itself for use in personal prayer and reflection on your own or with your spouse. The Companion includes classic and original artwork, Scripture passages, prayers and meditations, reflections on the saints, and words of hope and inspiration, all written with loving care by the Springs in the Desert Team to support and accompany you, wherever you are on the path of infertility. Individuals and couples who would like to experience guided reflection and time to meet and share with others on a similar path can join our live, virtual Lenten series, held Thursday evenings during Lent (March 6-April 10, 7 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.). The virtual series includes prayer and reflections from some Springs friends whose personal experiences and expertise in ministry, counseling, and pastoral work give them a unique heart for those carrying the cross of infertility and loss. And you’ll participate in Team-facilitated sharing while building community and forging friendships with others on a similar path in breakout rooms. *Spaces for the series are limited.
Whether you pray at home on your own, or with others during the live virtual series, we believe this Companion will be a comfort and blessing for you. It is our great honor to be your spiritual companion on this Lenten pilgrimage.
Register here: Carried: A Desert Pilgrimage | Springs in the Desert

Lenten Brotherhood Series at Corpus Christi Priory
2025-04-02 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-03-26 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-03-19 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-03-12 19:30 - 21:30 | Corpus Christi Priory, 4867 Laverna Rd., Springfield, IL, 62707, United States
Men who are looking for camaraderie and a different way to grow closer to our Lord this Lent are invited to attend Lenten Brotherhood, a Lenten prayer and reflection series at Corpus Christi Priory in Springfield (4867 Laverna Rd.). Wednesdays during Lent, each night consists of adoration, confession, discussion, and Night Prayer. Hosted by Mercy Tree Adventures, one does not have to attend each night, just come to the ones you are able. The dates are March 12, 19, 26, April 2, and April 9. It’s from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each night. For questions, call 217-606-1627.

Join the Dominican Sisters in virtual prayer sessions each Wednesdays of Lent
2025-04-02 19:00, 2025-03-26 19:00, 2025-03-19 19:00, 2025-03-12 19:00, 2025-03-05 19:00
All are invited to join the Dominican Sisters of Springfield for Stay with Me: Lenten Prayer for Disciples. The virtual sessions, scheduled for 7 p.m. on the Wednesdays of Lent, start March 5. They will allow space for participants to attune their hearts and minds to the struggles of those Jesus most often accompanied during his life on earth: widows, orphans, and persons cast out.
The title draws on Jesus’ request in Matthew’s gospel that the disciples accompany him to Gethsemane while he prays, just before his arrest.
Hosted by the Dominican Sisters’ Vocation Office, participants can expect to

hear reflections on the theme from Dominican sisters;
enjoy periods of silence and sharing;
build a community of prayer and mutual support for their Lenten practice.

The liturgical season of Lent includes six weeks before Holy Week. It is a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in preparation for the celebration of the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The baptized are encouraged to use this time to prepare for the renewal of their baptismal promises. Parish communities may also be accompanying those who intend to join the Church. For them, Lent is considered a six-week retreat in preparation for their baptism or profession of faith. Customarily, then, these new Catholics are welcomed into the church during the services on Holy Saturday, during the Triduum.
Stay with Me: Lenten Prayer for Disciples runs weekly March 5-April 9. Participants are welcome to join all six sessions or choose a few according to their own schedule and needs. Register once for participation in any or all of the sessions at springfieldop.org/events.

SDCCW invites women to Two-day Lenten Retreat
2025-03-25 - 2025-03-26
All women of the diocese are invited to the Springfield Diocese Council of Catholic Women’s (SDCCW) Lenten Retreat, taking place Tuesday, March 25 and Wednesday, March 26 at the Villa Maria Retreat Center in Springfield (1903 East Lake Shore Dr.). The retreat’s theme is “Walking with Jesus through Holy Week.” The two-day experience includes talks by Deacon Jeff Beals of our diocese, time for prayer, personal reflection, Mass, Confession, fellowship, and meals.
The retreat includes meals, refreshments, materials, and use of the facility. The cost is $130 for an overnight stay, single occupancy or double occupancy, if available, upon request; $70 for commuters, or $60 Monday night, March 24 with no meals. Mail a check to Barb Leaf, SDCCW Treasurer, 5734 Oakdale Dr., Springfield, IL 62711. Include your name, address, phone number, email address, and dietary or other needs. Also, indicate which cost option you choose. Make your check payable to SDCCW. For questions, contact Mary Ann Sullivan at 217-822-1928.

Illinois Pro-Life March
2025-03-25
Experience the Illinois Pro-Life March
On Tuesday, March 25, you are invited to join thousands of pro-life advocates, being a joyful witness to life and raising your voice for the voiceless at the Illinois Pro-Life March. There is a rally at the capitol at 1 p.m. and then a march around the capitol at 2 p.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will also be going on at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception from noon to 5 p.m. Confessions at the Cathedral will also be available from noon-1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. Last year, about 2,000 people attended the Illinois Pro-Life March, the vast majority being students from Catholic schools and Newman Centers. There were also dozens of priests, seminarians, religious, and the lay faithful from every corner of the diocese and the state. Note, there is a Mass before the march at the Sangamon Auditorium at UIS but that is full.

Looking for a good way to enhance your Lenten Season? Attend the Catholic Women Prayer Breakfast
2025-03-22 | St. Paul Catholic Church, 1411 Main St., Highland, IL, 62249, United States
Are you looking to grow in holiness during Lent? Are you wanting to spend time with the Lord and receive Him in holy Communion? What about becoming more inspired to becoming an authentic disciple of Christ? Then women, we have an experience for you. You are invited to attend the Catholic Women’s Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, March 22 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland (1411 Main St.). Adoration begins at 7 a.m., then praying of the Rosary at 7:30 a.m., then Mass at 8 a.m. with breakfast afterward, and then a talk by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki. Pre-registration is required for the breakfast meal. The cost is $30. Register before March 1 to reserve your spot and meal ticket. Proceeds benefit our seminarians. For more information, email: womensbreakfast2025@gmail.com or text Rose Wascher at 847-274-3916. REGISTER HERE.

Springfield Deanery, Council of Catholic Women meeting
2025-03-18 10:00 - 13:00 | St. Cabrini Parish, North Milton Avenue, Springfield, IL, 62702, United States
Springfield Deanery Meeting
All Catholic women are invited to attend the Springfield Deanery Meeting, Tuesday, March 18th, 10 am at St Cabrini Parish, 1020 N. Milton, Springfield. Erica Smith, MPH, Executive Director, Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach Program will be our guest speaker. Sr Ann Pitsenberger will join her in participating.
“Founded in 2002 by the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis, Mission Outreach exists to improve the health and wellness of people across the globe through the responsible donation of medical supplies, equipment, and support services” (hshs.org).
Soups & Salad Lunch will be provided by Linda Denny, St. Cabrini parishioner. A $5 donation for lunch is suggested. We will also discuss our future meeting dates and have updates on parish, diocesan and national programs. Register for door prizes, too! Please RSVP for the meeting by March 12th to: Linda Denny,217-691-9432 dennyml@comcast.net. or Deborah Pilapil,217-361-7165 debpil@yahoo.com
We also invite you to join us on Facebook! https://facebook.com/groups/561791791821229/

Scripture Series discussing God's Justice in the Bible
2025-03-15 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-03-08 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-03-01 10:00 - 12:00

Lenten Day of Reflection open to all at Corpus Christi Priory in Springfield
2025-03-15 09:00 - 16:00
A day filled with sacraments, prayer, spiritual talks, and reflection, the perfect way to get your Lent in gear, takes place Saturday, March 15 at Corpus Christi Priory on Springfield’s Northeast side (4867 Laverna Road, Springfield). Hosted by the Norbertine Fathers, the You Are My Hope Lenten Day of Reflection is open to all. The schedule is as follows:

9 a.m.: Arrival, coffee and snacks available
9:30 a.m.: Opening prayer and first conference and time for personal reflection and prayer
11 a.m.: Holy Mass
Noon: Midday Prayer, Litany of Loreto, and Marian Consecration Renewal
12:30 p.m.: Lunch (bring your own)
1:30 p.m.: Second conference
2:30 p.m.: Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and time for Confessions
3:30 p.m.: Benediction
4 p.m.: Departures

Please RSVP by March 11 to MINational@MissionImmaculata.com.Suggested donation payable to Norbertine Fathers: $25.00.

40 Days for Life national leaders bring message of 'the beginning of the end of abortion' to Fairview Heights, IL
2025-03-11 08:00 - 17:00
Diaper drive for A Beacon of Light Pregnancy Help Center in Maryville also part of event
April Wood of the peaceful, prayerful, effective 40 Days for Life project, will tell the story of this groundbreaking effort in Fairview Heights on Wednesday, March 26, Wood will speak at the Fairview Heights Midpoint Rally which is set for 4 p.m. at 331 Salem Place.
“People in Fairview Heights have made extraordinary sacrifices to expose the abortion industry and to protect pre-born children and their mothers from abortion,” Wood said. “We are honored to be able to join these folks in prayer. Their efforts illustrate why we’re seeing historic changes – more mothers choosing life, more abortion workers experiencing conversions and leaving the abortion industry, and more abortion centers closing their doors for good.”
“We are tremendously pleased that April will be here to support our 40 Days for Life effort,” said Molly King, spokesperson for the local 40 Days for Life campaign in Fairview Heights. “She is an enthusiastic speaker, and we know she will inspire.” Additionally, we will hear from one of our local campaign leaders, Kristi Hofferber, who is the CEO of a local pregnancy resource center and a National Advocate and Pro-life Speaker. She will share her inspiring personal story of the value of EVERY life, and the vital work or pregnancy resource centers.
Fairview Heights is one of 660 communities around the world conducting simultaneous 40 Days for Life campaigns from March 5, 2025 to April 13, 2025.
40 Days for Life is an intensive campaign that focuses on 40 days of prayer and fasting for an end to abortion, peaceful vigil at abortion facilities, and grassroots educational outreach. Since 40 Days for Life began, over 25,000 mothers have chosen life for their children; over 260 abortion workers have quit their jobs; and over 150 abortion centers where 40 Days for Life vigils have been held have gone out of business.
Wood serves as Director of Litigation for the 40 Days for Life Institute of Law & Justice. She has practiced law for more than two decades, including as an elected prosecutor in multiple locations, a city attorney, and a certified mediator. She has also run her own private practice. She has worked with grand juries and tried dozens of jury trials as well as countless other trials.

To learn more about 40 Days for Life, visit: www.40daysforlife.com. For information about the Fairview Heights campaign, visit: www.40daysforlife.com/fairviewheights.
For assistance or for more information, please contact Kristi Hofferber at FVH40Days@yahoo.com or 618-750-3338.

Pre-Cana Class in Ste. Marie
2025-03-08 08:00 - 15:00
St. Mary of the Assumption in Ste. Marie, IL
Register: call the parish office: 618-455-3155
The fee is $50 per couple to cover lunch and expenses for the day

Patriotic Concert to celebrate National Anthem Day
2025-03-03 19:00

Mini Holy Family Fest
2025-03-01 08:30 - 17:30
At Mini Holy Family Fest, you will reconnect with God and have fun as a family. It takes place March 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Quincy Notre Dame High School (1400 S 11th St., Quincy). The day includes Mass, confession, adoration, talks for teens and adults, games, the Rosary, and more. Register here: https://afc.org/mini-holy-family-fest/
For questions, email: quincyholyfamilyfest@gmail.com or call 217-440-8187

Women's Weekend Retreat
2025-02-28 - 2025-03-02
This is a weekend retreat (based on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius) for adult women on Feb. 28 – March 2, 2025 in Springfield. The retreat will be silent for the majority of the time, with guided talks/meditations, spiritual direction, and sacraments provided. Cost covers a private or double room and meals for the weekend. Arrival is 5 p.m. on Friday and end time is 1 p.m. on Sunday. Payment will be made by check only, made out to RC Activities, Inc. and can be mailed to Maria Rivero, 16764 Kehrs Mill Estates Dr., Chesterfield, 63005. Register here: Women’s Retreat Registration 2025

Gospel Mass & Soul Food Dinner 2025
2025-02-22 16:00 - 19:00
St. Aloysius Church
2000 E. Sangamon Avenue
Springfield, IL
Gospel Mass & Soul Food Dinner
To commemorate Black History Month, the Black Catholic Commission of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, invites you to attend a Gospel Mass followed by a Soul Food Dinner. Enjoy this cultural spirit of worship and fellowship within the Catholic Church. Fr. Frederick Mbiere will be the celebrant for the 4:00 pm Mass that will be held at St. Aloysius Church in Springfield. The meal will be served after Mass.
Cost is $15/meal. Please register and pay online by February 16 at https://go.dio.org/9c4

Day of Reflection: The Mirror of Consciousness - Seeing the Divine in All Things
2025-02-12 09:00 - 15:00
