Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

Summer Immersion Experience with Dominican Sisters in Chicago
2025-06-21 - 2025-06-25
Single Catholic women ages 18 – 45 are invited to participate in the Dominican Sisters’ Service Immersion Experience in Chicago. This unique opportunity allows participants to engage deeply with the mission and ministry of the Dominican Sisters while serving the local community and discerning their own path in faith and service. The event is scheduled for June 21-25, 2025. Participants will have opportunities for prayer, reflection, hands-on service, and conversation about vocation and Gospel justice. Participants will walk alongside the Dominican Sisters, gaining firsthand insight into their charism of prayer, preaching, community life, and service. Complete the interest form at springfieldop.org/summer. Facilitated by several congregations of U.S.-based Dominican Sisters. For more information call Sister Denise Glazik, OP, at 217-787-0481.

Women of Distinction Mass and Lunch
2025-06-21
The Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is pleased to again host the Women of Distinction (WOD) Celebration. They are hoping all parishes will participate in this wonderful opportunity to recognize faith-filled women in our parishes. Although every year only one lady from each parish may be selected, this honoree represents all the faith-filled ladies in each parish.
The Women of Distinction Mass will be at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki is the celebrant with many parish priests con-celebrating. A luncheon at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield follows Mass.
Register your 2025 Woman of Distinction here. Register for lunch here. That lunch form will need to be printed, filled out, and mailed with your check to the person listed on the form. The form to nominate a woman from your parish needs to be completed by May 12. The luncheon reservation form must be submitted by June 4.
Questions about the award? Please contact Janet Zimmerman, President, SDCCW at 217-494-4743 or sdccwinil@gmail.com.Questions about the luncheon? Please contact Karla Huddlestun, karlahuddlestun@gmail.com or 217-276-3428.

Support Biking for Babies riders at Cathedral/hear their amazing testimonies
2025-06-11 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Biking for Babies, a national nonprofit organization that combines cycling and pro-life advocacy by organizing long-distance bike rides to raise awareness and funds for pregnancy resource centers across the United States, is hitting the road again this July and one of the routes comes through Springfield. A group of young adult missionaries who train and ride hundreds of miles each day share the mission of protecting and supporting life from conception on their journey. Through their physical sacrifice and public witness, participants aim to promote a culture of life and provide critical support for centers that offer care, resources, and hope to women facing unplanned pregnancies. The Wisconsin Biking for Babies team will arrive in Springfield on the afternoon of July 18. Team members will attend the 5:15 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral and have dinner in the Cathedral School Hall. Members of the community are invited to hear the testimony of the riders at that time. While a reservation is needed to attend the discussion, if the attendee would like to eat with the group, please call the Cathedral office to reserve a spot for dinner: (217) 522-3342

Day of prayer on the Vigil of Pentecost at Corpus Christi Priory
2025-06-07 14:00 - 21:30

Springfield Catholic Schools 8th Grade Graduate Recognition Event & Celebration
2025-05-31 11:30 - 17:30
Please join us on Saturday May 31st, 2025 at 1130am, to celebrate the milestone achievement by your 8th grade graduating class from our Springfield area Catholic Schools. This event is an opportunity for us to recognize all 8th graders for establishing roots in Catholic Education and to wish them continued success.
At the event, graduates will receive a free wristband for unlimited carnival rides from Noon-4pm. Family and friends are encouraged to attend along with the 8th grade class. The event will open with a prayer, a brief talk to the graduates and a collective class picture. Mass is held at 430pm for all wishing to attend.
We ask that the students wear their school colors (past, present or future) and arrive by 1130am. Additional details are listed below and in the informational flyers provided. We hope to see everyone there and to make this an annual tradition in celebrating our valued Catholic Education.

Who?
Catholic Schools’ 8th Grade Graduates, Family and Friends
When?
Saturday May 31st, 2025
Where?
Under the Big Tent at
Little Flower Catholic School
900 Stevenson Dr, Springfield, IL 62703
What?

1130am – Arrive
1135am – Opening Prayer
1140am – Recognition Speech
1145am – Combined 8th grade class picture (wear school colors)
1155am – 8th graders receive wrist bands
1200pm – Rides, music, fun and games
400pm – Unlimited rides end
430pm – Mass @ 430 in Little Flower Church

How?
Food and drink are available for purchase
Additional carnival wristbands may be purchased for $25 or individual rides are $3 each

Memorial Day Field Mass
2025-05-26 09:00
NEW LOCATION!
Due to the forecast for inclement weather throughout the weekend and on Monday, the Memorial Day Field Mass on May 26 has been moved to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception located at 504 East Lawrence Avenue. Mass will begin at 9:00 am. The Most Reverend Thomas John Paprocki will be the principal celebrant. Accompanying Bishop Paprocki in procession will be local priests and members of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus.

Come and support our (almost) priests! Attend Ordination Mass May 24
2025-05-24 10:00
You are invited to come to the ordination Mass of Deacons Ryan Kehoe and Charlie Delano to the priesthood on Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield. Celebrated by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki, most of our priests and deacons from across the diocese and these two men’s family and friends will be there.
Come, show your support for these soon-to-be priests, to pray for their vocation, and to pray for holy vocations to the priesthood and religious life. A reception hosted by the Good Shepherd Society for Priestly Vocations will be held after the Mass.

Deacon Ryan Kehoe

Deacon Charles Delano

Attend WDCR's 14th Annual Dinner
2025-05-06 17:30
WDCR Decatur Catholic Radio, an affiliate of Relevant Radio, invites you to attend their annual dinner on Tuesday, May 6 at the Mt. Zion Convention Center (1400 Mount Zion Parkway) at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening with family and friends, a delicious meal, and hear from keynote speaker, Father Francis Hoffman, better known as Father Rocky, who is the executive director and CEO of Relevant Radio and the host of Family Rosary Across America. The cost is $50 per person or $400 for a table of 8. For reservations, call WDCR at 217-464-1099 or go to wdcrradio.com.

Attend special Holy Hour for vocations in Springfield May 4 in Decatur
2025-05-04 19:00
Come pray for holy vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and marriage during a holy hour at Holy Family Parish in Decatur on Sunday, May 4 at 7 p.m. There will be adoration before our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament and confession will be available. You can pray vocation-specific prayers, a Rosary, or whatever you like. Benediction will close the Holy Hour. A short homily on discerning vocations will also be given.

Prayer Service for Pope Francis and the Conclave
2025-05-04 16:00
The Dominican Sisters of Springfield are holding a public prayer to honor the life of Pope Francis and to pray for the Spirit’s intercession in the search for his successor. They would be honored to welcome you. Please join them, if you can at 4:00 p.m., Sunday May 4 at Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, 1237 W. Monroe St. in Springfield. The service will be about 30 minutes, and Sister Joanne Delehanty will preach. There is no registration required. If you would like to extend an invitation for others to join us, they might want to see the story on our website.

Ecumenical celebration of the 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea
2025-05-04 14:00 | Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 East Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, IL, United States
When: Sunday, May 4, 2025, 2:00 pm
Where: The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Springfield, Illinois
What: Bishop Paprocki will host an ecumenical celebration of the 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. You are invited to celebrate the Creed we pray each Sunday and unites with most of the Christians in the world.

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Springfield Deanery of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women meeting
2025-05-03 10:00
The Springfield Deanery of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women will meet on Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, in the Parish Center, 1345 N. 6th Street, Springfield. Sr. Mary Ellen Backes OSU will speak about the Water For Women program. Lunch will be served with a $5 suggested donation. A business meeting and tour of the Ronald McDonald House in Springfield are also on the agenda. If you have any pop tabs saved, please bring them with you. All women are invited to attend! RSVP by April 27th to Diane Mounce, St. Joe’s Pastoral Council Secretary, 217-971-2350, voice and text. Find us on Facebook: Springfield in IL Deanery, Council of Catholic Women: www.facebook.com/groups/561791791821229. Thank you!

Pre-Cana Class in Decatur
2025-04-26 08:30 - 16:30
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish (Enrichment Center) in Decatur, IL
Register: Call the parish office at 217-877-4404
The fee is $50 per couple to cover lunch and expenses of the day.

Entering the Mystery of the Lord's Passion with Our Lady
2025-04-18
Norbertine Fathers, Corpus Christi Priory,
4867 Laverna Road, Springfield, IL 62707

1:15 pm – Arrivals
1:45 pm – Conference
Standing with Our Lady at the foot of the Cross and waiting with her
for the Lord’s Resurrection
2:30 pm – Passion Liturgy
5:00 pm – Holy Rosary and Divine Mercy Novena Prayers
Departures

Please RSVP by April 14 at MINational@MissionImmaculata.comor call Antonella at 847-917-6393

Attend the Chrism Mass with members from every parish in our diocese at the Cathedral during Holy Week
2025-04-15 18:30
The holy oils at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.Photo by Debbie Benz
The Chrism Mass is one of the most beautiful liturgies of the year
Have you ever wondered where your parish priest gets the Holy Oils he uses throughout the year? Think of baptism, confirmation, and anointing of the sick. They come from the Chrism Mass, which takes place the Tuesday of Holy Week at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield.
The Holy Oils that the Church uses in the sacraments are all composed of olive oil. The process begins at our Cathedral. It first starts with several dozen gallons of pure olive oil, and through a process perfected over many years, and through the generous efforts of everyone willing to help (in recent years, the Knights of Columbus Council at Cathedral has led the charge), a crew of people go about carefully filling more than 300 individual bottles using a conglomeration of funnels and old coffee urns, labeling them as “Oil of Catechumens,” “Oil of the Sick,” and “Sacred Chrism.” The bottles are then placed in boxes, which is labeled with the parish or institution to which it is destined to go. Before filling the bottles that will become Sacred Chrism, the helpers mix in the balsam extract to the point where the scent is obvious but not overpowering.
There are also larger glass jugs of oil that are used during the Chrism Mass itself, and it is these jugs that will be carried in procession up to Bishop Thomas John Paprocki for him to bless (Oil of Catechumens and Oil of the Sick) and consecrate (Sacred Chrism) at the proper points in the Mass. The boxes with their bottles are placed in front of the bishop before the Mass begins.
After the Mass, the larger glass bottles are kept in the Ambry at the Cathedral, which is the place, often looking much like a tabernacle, that houses each of the oils in every parish, and all the pre-boxed sets of bottles are distributed to their various destinations. They are collected by the pastor or a delegated member from that parish who attends the Chrism Mass.
The Chrism Mass is one of the most beautiful liturgies of the year in which mostly all of our priests are in attendance and members from each parish attend. You are invited as well! It takes place Tuesday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cathedral in Springfield.

All Things New, a Lenten Prayer Service, in metro-east April 13
2025-04-13 14:00
Father McGivney Catholic High School’s Music Department invites you to their special Lenten prayer service, All Things New, on Palm Sunday, April 13 at 2 p.m. at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Collinsville. All Things New takes a look at the passion of Jesus through the eyes of the people that witnessed the moments leading up to His crucifixion. The program features reading of scripture and listening to sacred music performed by Father McGivney’s Concert Choir and Advanced Choir Cantare Amantis, as well as organist Taylor Boulanger.

Infertility Support During Lent
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-04-03 19:00 - 20:15, 2025-03-27 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
2025-04-09 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-04-02 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-03-26 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
2025-04-09 19:00, 2025-04-02 19:00, 2025-03-26 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.

Day of Reflection: Living in Freedom - Letting Go of Desires for Inner Peace
2025-04-09 09:00 - 15:00

Attend free Springfield premiere showing of documentary, God is Alive, Part II
2025-04-05 19:00
The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois is happy to invite you and guests to a free, premiere showing of the documentary, God is Alive, Part II | Incredible stories of faith and miraculous events in the Midwest. It takes place Saturday, April 5 at 7 p.m. at Sacred Heart Griffin High School in Springfield in their auditorium.
What is this documentary about?
If you are full of faith, clinging to faith, or have lost hope in faith, this one-hour documentary will get you inspired, move you to hope, and fall in love with faith in a whole new way. We set out to find miracles in our own backyard and people – who despite pain or hardships – found light and joy in unexpected ways. God is Alive, Part II will take you to Gower, MO, Edwardsville, Ashland, and Chicago to show you miracles still happen, God is alive no matter the circumstances if you are paying attention, and including God in your life is what will make the difference.
This documentary comes on the heels of the diocese’s documentary, God is Alive | Incredible stories of faith and miraculous events in Central Illinois, which premiered in 2023 and was featured in the National Catholic Register, Catholic News Agency, Sirius XM Radio, Relevant Radio, Catholic TV, AM 1450, and several other media outlets.
So, how can you attend the free premiere of God is Alive, Part II?
Go to dio.org/documentary and fill out the quick RSVP form. There is limited seating so act fast!
If you have any questions, email the creator of God is Alive, Andrew Hansen, at ahansen@dio.org.

Sisters to host 'A Day of Rest at The Woods' retreat
2025-04-05 09:00 - 17:00
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.

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.
