About

St. Mary Catholic Church, located at 397 Fulton St in Elgin, Illinois, holds the distinction of being the first Catholic Church in Elgin, with its roots tracing back to the first Mass celebrated in the area by French Missionaries in 1837. The cornerstone of its first permanent church was laid in 1851, and the current, impressive church building began construction in 1896, completed three years later, becoming the most costly church erected in the city at that time. St. Mary Parish is a vibrant Catholic community, currently serving approximately 1,600 registered families. Guided by Holy Scripture, sacred Tradition, Christ's Sacraments, prayer, fellowship, and service, the parish is dedicated to growing in Christ under the patronage of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The church offers a comprehensive range of liturgical, pastoral, and community ministries designed to engage parishioners of all ages:

• Liturgical Ministries: These include opportunities to serve as Altar Servers, Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Communion (including for the homebound, sick, or hospital-bound), Sacristans, Ushers, Gift Bearers, and participants in the Music Ministry (adult and children's choirs). The parish also offers Adoration and intercessory prayer groups.
• Education and Formation: St. Mary Catholic School provides a rigorous academic and religious education from preschool through 8th grade. For those not attending Catholic school, the Religious Education program (including a R.E.A.C.H. program for children with disabilities) nurtures faith development. The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) welcomes those interested in joining the Catholic Church.
• Pastoral Care and Outreach: Ministries like the St. Vincent DePaul Society demonstrate the parish's commitment to serving those in need by providing support and material assistance. Other initiatives include the Church Decorating Committee, Funeral Reception volunteers, and general office/clerical help.
• Community and Fellowship: Various groups like the Holy Family Rosary Ministry (making rosaries for distribution worldwide), the Women's Club, and the Respect Life Committee foster spiritual growth, fellowship, and service. The Filipino-American Catholic Community (SmFAM) also provides a space for cultural and spiritual growth.