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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. PROCOPIUS CATHOLIC CHURCH
WHEREAS, in 2026, St. Procopius Catholic Church, located in the heart of the 7th District, proudly celebrates the 150th anniversary of its founding; and
WHEREAS, founded by Czech Catholic immigrants, St. Procopius Church reflects the story of generations of immigrants who came to Chicago seeking faith and community; and
WHEREAS, after the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, Pilsen experienced significant growth as immigrant families built homes, businesses, and community institutions that shaped the neighborhood’s cultural identity; and
WHEREAS, in the summer of 1875, the founders of St. Procopius Parish purchased three lots at the corner of 18th and Allport Streets for $3,600, establishing the future home of the parish; and
WHEREAS, St. Procopius Parish was formally organized in 1875 with Reverend Fr. Coka as its first pastor, and the first Mass was celebrated on Easter Sunday, April 16, 1876, by Reverend Fr. Gerst, chaplain at nearby Alexian Brothers Hospital, beginning a 150-year legacy of faith, education, and service; and
WHEREAS, the current St. Procopius Church building, dedicated in 1883 and designed in the Romanesque architectural style, remains a lasting testament to the faith, sacrifice, and vision of the parish’s founders and the generations who have carried its mission forward; and
WHEREAS, St. Procopius Church has grown alongside the Pilsen community, evolving from its Czech Catholic roots into a welcoming home for a predominantly Mexican-American and multicultural congregation; and
WHEREAS, through its parish school and sacramental ministry, St. Procopius Church has nurtured generations of families and strengthened Chicago’s social and spiritual fabric; and
WHEREAS, for 150 years, St. Procopius Church has served as a center of community life, preserving cultural and religious traditions, celebrating the heritage of its parishioners, and providing a place of belonging for generations of families.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners congratulates the Parish of St. Procopius on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary and recognizes its enduring contributions to Pilsen and the broader Chicago community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to St. Procopius Church in recognition of its 150 years of faith, service, and dedication to the community.
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