A 'bittersweet' farewell at Northbrook church: Our Lady of the Brook celebrates its final Mass
Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church in Northbrook, which opened in 1968, held its final Mass on Sunday. “It's kind of bittersweet,” said the Rev. Chris Gustafson. “It's been home for so many.”
The church announced its intent to close in June due a combination of changing demographics, a decline in religious attendance for all denominations, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, all of which made its future unsustainable, according to Amy Principi, communications manager for the Catholic Community of Northbrook, which encompasses Our Lady of the Brook and St. Norbert; the two parishes merged in 2017.
"It was my home for 36 years." said Don Colfer, as he carries the cross during the processional with current and former clergy during the final Mass at Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church on Sunday in Northbrook. The church, which opened in 1968, is closing due to declining attendance and contributions, as well as effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ryan Rayburn/For the Daily Herald
Parishioners attend the final Mass at Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church on Sunday. Due to declining attendance and contributions, the church is closing after more than 50 years.
Ryan Rayburn/For the Daily Herald
Parishioners attend the final Mass at Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church on Sunday. Due to declining attendance and contributions, the church is closing after more than 50 years.
Ryan Rayburn/For the Daily Herald
Founding member of the church Georgina Winters, a founding member of Our Lady of the Brook, speaks with church member Anthony Meo after the church's final Mass on Sunday in Northbrook. The parish merged with St. Norbert's in 2017 and announced its intention to close this past June.
Ryan Rayburn/For the Daily Herald
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