Starting in 1884, the Archdiocese of Chicago made a commitment to persons who were deaf Catholics and their families. Since that time, there has always been a ‘deaf ministry” in the Archdiocese.
Over the decades, that ministry, which began at Holy Family parish on West Roosevelt Rd., has been situated at various sites. In 1983, there was a need to find a more permanent home for that ministry. St. Francis Borgia parish offered to “host the ministry for a while”. Since December 13, 1983, St. Francis Borgia parish has been our HOME! For the deaf Catholics and their families, St. Francis Borgia is more than just a place. The priests, staff, and people of this parish have been welcoming, supportive, and truly loving in their attitude towards this community. Sometimes, deaf Catholics from other parts of the country, and even other nations will come to Chicago and ask, “where is the deaf church at SFB?”
In the chapel at St. Francis Borgia, one of the stained-glass windows is dedicated to St. Francis DeSales, the patron saint of deaf people. When the community gathers here for Mass each week with St. Francis looking on, we always offer a prayer of thanksgiving for this parish and its wonderful parishioners.
