On October 7th, 2015, a devastating fire destroyed the Shrine of Christ the King church in Woodlawn, Illinois. The fire began in the wooden choir loft and spread through the church. Most of the roof, the windows, and the interior furnishings are completely ruined, and the water and smoke damage has been extensive.
The Shrine of Christ the King church is a historic landmark and is the last remaining Catholic church in Woodlawn. Since the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest was given the buildings in 2004, the congregation has grown. The parish life is bustling, with Masses and devotions well-attended throughout the week. The Shrine is also an asset to the community, offering concerts and other cultural events on a regular basis. It has been in the process of restoration and remodeling since earlier damage caused by a fire in 1976.
As soon as was possible after the fire, the Blessed Sacrament and other religious items were removed from the burned church. Stones were salvaged and catalogued for the reconstruction. A few days after the fire, when the damage had been assessed, the parish gathered to pray at the shell of the church. The fervour of the parishioners caught the interest of several local news stations, who covered the prayer rally and Mass. Thanks to a kind benefactor, arrangements for the restoration of the statue of the Holy Infant King are already underway
Despite the sadness of the event, the clergy and the faithful are showing great hope for the future. A donation fund has been set up and a neighboring parish has opened its doors for the misplaced parishioners. The Archdiocese and the Institute priests have been in constant communication about maintaining a true Catholic presence in the Woodlawn neighborhood.
You can follow the restoration project by keeping in touch with the Shrine on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. During this Christmas season please consider donating to this worthy cause!
The Shrine is a spiritual home for many and we look forward to its resurrection!
