St. Alphonsus–St. Clement Church
A magnificent English Gothic church in Chicago, rich with history and a vibrant spiritual community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the full spiritual atmosphere.
St. Alphonsus–St. Clement Church
Best Time
Experience the full spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent English Gothic church in Chicago, rich with history and a vibrant spiritual community.
"The building is nothing short of spectacular. A predominantly English Gothic church, it features many classic English elements."
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship. :dress:
Inquire About Tours
Ask about historical and architectural tours; they offer great insights. :information_desk:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
English Gothic Architecture
Interior and Exterior
Marvel at the intricate facade, ribbed ceilings, and medieval-style paintings that define its classic English Gothic style.
The Striking Baldachino
Altar Area
This white canopy above the altar naturally draws the eye, focusing attention on the sacred space and the Mass.
Historical Significance
Founded by German immigrants, this church holds deep roots in Chicago's history and continues to offer services in German.
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Planning Your Visit
A Sanctuary Amidst a Changing Landscape
Respectful Visitation is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship. :dress:
Inquire About Tours
Ask about historical and architectural tours; they offer great insights. :information_desk:
Acoustics Note
The grand interior can make hearing the speaker system a bit challenging. :mega:
German Services
Services are still held in German, honoring its immigrant roots. :de:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship. :dress:
Inquire About Tours
Ask about historical and architectural tours; they offer great insights. :information_desk:
Acoustics Note
The grand interior can make hearing the speaker system a bit challenging. :mega:
German Services
Services are still held in German, honoring its immigrant roots. :de:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular architecture of St. Alphonsus–St. Clement Church, highlighting its English Gothic style and the striking baldachino. The church is seen as a beautiful and historically significant place of worship, with a welcoming community. Some note that the acoustics can make the speaker system difficult to hear during services.
"Father Lesniak is the BEST!!! He belongs at St. Alphonsus!!! I just wish the Archdiocese would get a clue and ut him back where he belongs at St. Alphonsus-St. Clement Church."
Teresa Pic
"A gorgeous church to be sure.
I asked to visit, and a fifth-generation parishioner was kind enough to give me a history and architectural tour. He didn't shy about being brutally honest about the shrinking parish, but he had also plainly not given up on the church. I do hope that there is a revival in store for this beautiful house of God!
The organist was also present to allow me to play the digital organ. Extremely friendly and kind
The building is nothing short of spectacular. A predominantly English Gothic church, it features many classic English elements. Large windows with tracery in them, medieval style paintings, ribbed ceiling, and the intricate facade and the stone work. The baldachino was the proverbial cherry on top of it all. The buildings interior is naturally dark, thus the white baldaccino naturally draws the eye to the Altar, to God, and to the Mass. Beautiful!"
Peter Roeder
"Will always love my beautiful Church, and I will always miss my old school buildings. I know they had to come down, but my education from there has formed me for life. My 5 siblings and I remember our St. Alphonsus years with love."
Valerie Evers Bernacki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Chicago, IL. Public transportation options are available, with many bus routes serving the area. Driving is also an option, though parking availability can vary.
Yes, the church is accessible via Chicago's public transit system. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes to the Lakeview neighborhood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general entry to admire the architecture is typically free. However, donations are always appreciated to help maintain this historic building.
Visiting hours can vary, especially around Mass times and holidays. It's best to check the official church website or call ahead to confirm availability for tours or general visits.
Absolutely! The church holds regular Masses, including services in German. Check their schedule for times and specific services. 
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The church is a stunning example of English Gothic architecture, featuring large windows with tracery, ribbed ceilings, and intricate stonework.
Guided tours focusing on history and architecture may be available. It's recommended to contact the church office in advance to inquire about scheduling and availability.
The white baldachino over the altar is a striking feature that draws the eye towards the altar, God, and the Mass, enhancing the spiritual focus of the interior.
Yes, St. Alphonsus–St. Clement Church is an active parish with a dedicated congregation, though some reviews mention a shrinking parish size.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography.
The intricate facade, the interior with its ribbed ceilings and stained glass, and the altar area with the baldachino are prime spots for photography.
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Deep Dives
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Architectural Marvel: English Gothic Style
This architectural style, popular in medieval Europe, was brought to Chicago by German immigrants who founded the parish. The church continues to honor its heritage, with some services still conducted in German, offering a unique connection to its past. The building's construction, with its high ceilings and marble surfaces, contributes to a distinct acoustic environment, which some visitors note can make the speaker system a bit challenging to hear clearly.
A Community's Enduring Faith
The church's community spirit is evident in initiatives like the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) team, which welcomes new members into the Catholic family.
This dedication to faith and community ensures that St. Alphonsus–St. Clement continues to be a place of worship, fellowship, and historical significance for generations to come. The organist's willingness to let visitors play the digital organ further highlights the welcoming and engaging nature of the community. 
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