Throughout it's history, Old St. Pat's has been a haven for those seeking a sacred special place and now is home to a multitude of interfaith families. In the words of Rev. Jack Wall it's pastor, "For over 150 years, Old St. Patrick's Church has stood at the western gateway of Chicago's loop. Built seven generations ago, this old city church, a treasure born of the immigrant dream, has welcomed hundreds of thousands of people who have come through it's doors seeking a deeper, richer experience of life."

It is Father Wall's hope that Old St. Pat's be recognized as a place where people can explore "life's possibilities and recognize the potential within themselves." Supporting this sense of mission is the leadership and 'chaplaincy' of Father John Cusick, Director of the Office of Young Adult Ministry of the Archdiocese of Chicago, housed at Old St. Pat's. Instrumental in the formation of the Catholic Jewish Couple's Dialogue Group twelve years ago, Father John has been a guide, mentor, friend and counselor to many interfaith couples.

Old St. Pat's offers Sunday worship at 8:30am, 9:30am, 11:15am, 12:45pm and 5:00 pm. While Father John normally officiates at the 11:15am Mass, it is wise to call the office ahead of time if you are coming for the first time and wish to greet him. Nursery services are available for children, free of charge. Be sure to introduce yourself and say hello! While at Old St. Pat's, be sure to pick up a copy of their weekly newsletter, as there is much afoot at OSP.

In addition to hosting the Catholic Jewish Couple's Dialogue Group, Old St. Pat's offers a Sunday Supper each Sunday following the 5:00pm Mass, for food, friendship and a thoughtful presentation; the First Friday Club of Chicago meeting at the Union League Club in downtown Chicago the first Friday of every month from October through May; concerts by Music of the Baroque; an upcoming literary tour of Ireland and a thriving community outreach program.

For those young adults in their 20's and 30's, married and single, the Young Adult Ministry offers a variety of programs relating faith, work, relationship and living in the new millennium. For information, call 312/466-9473 or www.yamchicago.org

For more information about Old St. Patrick's Church, please call 312 648-1021, or log on to their website at www.oldstpats.org. Additional information regarding lectures, seminars and educational programs can be found at www.crossroads-center.org