About Christ The King: History

This community of faith had its humble beginnings in February 1917, as Sacred Heart Parish. A two-story house served as its first rectory and chapel. One year later, a red brick church was erected facing South Rockford Avenue. Sacred Heart School began in September 1918.

As families grew, the need for a larger church became evident. Bishop Francis C. Kelley commissioned Chicago architect Barry Byrne to draw plans for the construction of a new church. It was completed in 1927 and formally dedicated in May 1928. It was the first church in the world to be dedicated under the title of Christ the King. Construction of a new Sacred Heart School began in 1928 and dedication ceremonies were held in October 1929. In 1930, the school's name was changed to Marquette School in honor of Fr. Jacques Marquette, French Jesuit missionary and explorer.

The parish continued to grow. The old Sacred Heart building, used until 1934 for parish activities, was razed to make space for a convent (now the parish office) for Benedictine Sisters, who were to faithfully serve the parish for many years to come. By 1955, the parish expanded to include portions of the city blocks immediately south and west, which included Temple Israel synagogue. The synagogue became Marquette Hall, and in the mid-1970s was renamed Fletcher Hall. The building was extensively remodeled, and was used for many years as a Catholic Social Center for school, parish, and secular activities.

In 1989, the Parish Council formed the Vision '89 Committee to explore plans to significantly upgrade both the church and Marquette School. Fund-raising for the ambitious project was led by pastor Fr. Gregory Gier (1983-96). On May 13, 1990, ground was broken on the building of a gymnasium, school library, cafeteria, and new Fletcher Hall. The old Fletcher Hall was razed to make room for a new playground, and the old blacktop playground became the site of the new gymnasium, auditorium, cafeteria, and school offices. The new parish center was designed to maintain the existing architectural integrity yet meet the needs of a growing and vibrant parish for decades to come.

Today, the Parish Of Christ The King has nearly 1,600 registered families. Although the church is now more than 70 years old, it retains its original tradition and modern concept, proving that Christ The King truly is a church for all time.