CHICAGO (WLS) — A Chicago City Council Zoning Committee voted Tuesday to approve landmark status for St. Adalbert Church in Pilsen.
The potential future of the church is a contentious issue causing division within the community, and this topic was passionately discussed during the Chicago City Council Zoning Committee’s public comment session.
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St. Adalbert’s Church in Pilsen has been closed since 2019. The Chicago Archdiocese has been trying to sell it.
They have a potential buyer, People Church, which is a non-denominational. They want to preserve the church, but not the rest of the buildings.
RELATED: Chicago Archdiocese has buyer for shuttered Pilsen church; some worry campus will not be preserved
The Society of St. Adalbert, which includes former parishioners have been rejecting the plan.
The groups wants the church and all of its buildings preserved, including the rectory, convent, school and parking lot.
Preservationists said the former Catholic church has a lot of rich history and is important to both Polish and Mexican communities.
“Two of Chicago’s largest immigrant communities are striving to preserve our Catholic heritage and legacy,” stated Julie Sawicki from the Society of St. Adalbert. “The church walls have witnessed funerals, baptisms, and weddings. This is a crucial part of our history that we are determined to preserve.”
Members of Chicago Archdiocese are also present at the meeting. They said they support limited landmarking and are excited about a potential buyer.
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