About Our Lady of the Holy Family Parish - Holy Family Church · Chicago, Illinois
Church of the Holy Family in Chicago is the city’s original Jesuit Catholic church, founded in 1857 by Fr. Arnold Damen, S.J., and has served as a spiritual home for over 160 years. It is a historic landmark that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and continues to serve the students, alumni, and families of Saint Ignatius College Prep, as well as the broader Chicago community. The church is known for its beautiful architecture, rich artistic heritage, and deep commitment to faith and community.
- Established
- 1857
- Patron
- Our Lady of Perpetual Help
- Rector
- Rev. Lukas M. Laniauskas, S.J.
- Diocese
- Diocese of Chicago
Why belong here
Join a parish with deep roots in Chicago’s history, serving students and families through education, community events, and spiritual support. Experience a vibrant faith community that welcomes all, offers sacraments, and preserves its historic architecture and artistic heritage through ministries and restoration efforts.
A History of Faith & Service to Chicago
Founded in 1857 by Fr. Arnold Damen, S.J., Church of the Holy Family has been a spiritual home for over 160 years. Originally serving immigrants, it has welcomed people of all backgrounds and continues to serve the students, alumni, and families of Saint Ignatius College Prep, as well as the broader Chicago community.
Architecture & Artifacts
The church’s beauty is enhanced by the work of master woodcarvers Anton and Sebastian Buscher, whose contributions are celebrated in the 1923 commemorative history book and displayed at the Buscher Museum in Gamburg, Germany.
Preservation & Community
The church is actively preserved through donations and restoration efforts led by figures like Fr. George Lane, S.J. It hosts community events, including Open House Chicago and Jesuit alumni gatherings, and continues to serve as a spiritual anchor for Chicago’s Catholic families.