As the holiday season comes to a close, churches and religious institutions in the Southtown area continue to spread the joy and celebrate the spirit of the season with a variety of events and services. From Christmas concerts and gospel smackdowns to New Year’s Day masses, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this religion roundup, we will explore some of the upcoming events and services being held at different churches in the community.
St. Elizabeth Seton Church
St. Elizabeth Seton Church invites you to their “Sounds of Christmas” concert on January 7th at 3 p.m. This musical extravaganza will be presented by the St. Elizabeth Music Ministry and features the church choir. Admission is by donation at the door, and light refreshments will be served after the event. For more information, contact St. Elizabeth Seton Church at 708-403-0101.
Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School/Gymnasium
Calling all young basketball enthusiasts! The Knights of Columbus Father C.C. Boyle Council 4698 presents a free throw competition on January 7th from 4 to 6 p.m. This competition is open to boys and girls aged 9 to 14. Participation is free, and winners from each age group will advance to the next round for a chance to compete in the state championship. Register by January 4th by emailing pat.mckernan@att.net.
Lighthouse Church of All Nations
Looking for a family-friendly celebration to ring in the new year? Join the Lighthouse Church of All Nations for their New Year’s Eve Gospel Smackdown on December 31st from 10 p.m. to midnight. This event promises games, special acts, and inspirational moments to set the tone for the coming year. Additionally, a special 10 a.m. service will be held on the same day, led by Senior Pastor Garland Mays Jr. For more information, visit their website at thelighthousechurch.org or call 708-385-6020.
Incarnation St. Terrance Parish
Celebrate the New Year with Incarnation St. Terrance Parish by attending their New Year’s Day Masses on January 1st. Join them at 9:30 a.m. at Incarnation or at 11 a.m. at St. Terrence in Alsip. The Mass at Incarnation will be in English, while the Mass at St. Terrence will be in Polish. For more details, visit their website at incparish.com or call 708-205-8975.
St. Mark MB Church
St. Mark MB Church is spreading the joy of reading with their community book box. Open whenever the church is accessible, people of all ages are welcome to come and select a book to take home and enjoy. Donations of new and gently used books are also encouraged. For more information, visit their website at stmarkmbchurch.org.
Our Mother of Good Counsel
Join Our Mother of Good Counsel on January 1st for their Solemnity of Mary services. The Mass at 10:30 a.m. will be conducted in English, while the Mass at noon will be in Polish. For further details, visit omgccc.org or call 708-301-6246.
First Congregational Church of Lockport United Church of Christ
The First Congregational Church of Lockport United Church of Christ extends a helping hand to the community with their 24-hour micro food pantry. Located outside the church, this pantry provides essential food items for those in need. For more information, visit their website at lockportucc.org or call 815-838-2091.
Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church
Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church invites you to join their Nativity Feast Day celebration on January 7th. The day will begin with the Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m., followed by a delightful Nativity dinner. Reservations are required, so be sure to make yours in advance. For more information, visit their website at sspeterandpauluoc.net or call 708-361-5165.
Trinity Lutheran Church
Trinity Lutheran Church has planned a series of services for New Year’s Eve on December 31st. Traditional services will be held at 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., while a special “reveal” service is scheduled for 11 a.m. For details, visit their website at tics.org or call 708-532-9395.
Conclusion
As we bid farewell to the holiday season, the churches and religious institutions in the Southtown area continue to inspire and uplift the community with their events and services. From musical concerts to basketball competitions and special masses, there is something for everyone to enjoy and participate in. Take the opportunity to embrace the spirit of the season and engage with your local religious community. Let us know about the upcoming events and services at your church by sending an email to religion@southtownstar.com with the relevant details.