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A Proud Past And A Promising Future

1882 - 1998

Fr.Moczygemba

On November 23, 1882, the Archbishop of Chicago, the Most Rev. Patrick Augustine Feehan, commissioned Father Leopold Bonaventura Maria Moczygemba, the pastor of St. Alphonsus Church in Lemont, to organize a new parish to service the spiritual and cultural needs of Lemont's increasing Polish community. The site selected by Father Moczygemba for the new parish consisted of 20 acres and was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Murray who sold the land for $2,000. Father Moczygemba gave the name of "Jasna Gora", popularly known as "Blue Hill", to the site, dedicating it to Our Lady of Czestochowa, the patroness of his native Poland. The land was later subdivided into the "Jasna Gora Subdivision" and title was transferred to the Catholic Bishop of Chicago on January 8, 1884.

A general meeting of all parishioners was held during the first week of June, 1883, at which time it was decided to immediately proceed with the building of the new church and school. Monsignor Patrick J. Conway, Vicar General of the Archdiocese, officiated at the laying of the cornerstone on August 12, 1883, and the Church and school were completed by April of 1884. The frame church was built on a Lemont stone foundation and measured 119 feet by 56 feet. The church and its choir loft could seat 775 people. Father Moczygemba offered the first Mass on Palm Sunday, April 6, 1884. His Excellency, Archbishop Patrick A. Feehan, blessed the new church and school on Sunday, August 31, 1884.

On March 29, 1898, a fire broke out in the store of Peter Madja, which was located across the street from the school, and a violent north wind carried the flames across the street to the frame school building, burning it to the ground. Following the destruction of the school, a new school built of Lemont limestone donated by one of the quarries located near Lemont, was constructed by Father Candid Pacholski.

A central heating system was installed in the school in 1911, and in that same year, electricity was brought into all of the parish buildings. The church was equipped with a central heating system the following year. Signor Ciusti, a well-known Italian artist, completed the painting of Scriptural scenes on the walls of the church in May, 1914.

In July, 1925, a meeting of all parish groups and organizations was held and it was unanimously agreed that a new convent should be built and the former Sister's quarters converted into classrooms. On the feast of St. Joseph, March 19, 1926, the Sisters moved into their new home which was blessed on Sunday, Mary 30, 1926.

Tragedy again struck the parish on Ash Wednesday, February 22, 1928. Between the hours of four and six in the morning, both the church and rectory burnt to the ground. The parishioners of St. Patrick's of Lemont graciously allowed the stricken parishioners of St. Cyril's to conduct services in their church and Mrs. L. Hoinacki made her residence available to the homeless pastor, Father Henry Jagodzinski.

The architectural firm of E. Brialmaier and Sons of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was hired to draw plans for a new church and rectory and on October 28, 1928, a contract in the amount of $177,000 was signed with The Local Construction Company for this project. The foundations and floors of the buildings were laid by the 14th of December, 1928; however, the severe winter interrupted further progress, and it was not until April 21, 1929, that the laying of the corner stone in the church took place.

Original Church

The rectory was made ready for occupancy on July 31, 1929, and on January 1, 1930, at 5:00 A.M., the first Mass in the new church was celebrated by the Pastor, Father Henry Jagodzinski. The church organ was blessed on May 30, 1930. On that same day, the choirs of six parishes gave a concert of religious music to commemorate the occasion.

The first to be baptized in the new church was Mary Angeline Wittenkeller, daughter of Michael and Rose (Szvnkowski) Wittenkeller. The first wedding performed in the new church was that of Edward Swanson, son of Edward and Maryann (Wagner) Swanson to Delma Wesolowski, daughter of Anthony and Victoria (Kazmierczak) Wesolowski.

The Golden Jubilee of the parish was acknowledged by the celebration of a special Mass on April 8, 1934.

Altar of Original Church

On July 9, 1942, after serving as pastor of St. Cyril's for 29 years, Father Henry Jagodzinski was transferred to St. Salomea Parish in Chicago. The parishioners recognized they owed a great debt of gratitude to Father Jagodzinski whose remarkable courage and amazing foresight erected the "Little Cathedral on Blue Hill".

Father Jagodzinski was succeeded by The Rev. Leo Hinc, but because of ill health, Father Hinc was forced to resign the pastorale only a few weeks after being appointed. On July 27, 1942, His Excellency, Archbishop Samuel Stritch, assigned the Rev. Ladislaus J. Nosal, a young, energetic priest as the pastor of St. Cyril's.

Fr. Henry Jagodzinski

In the same year that he was appointed, Father Nosal initiated a drive to obtain and install stained glass windows in the church, and these beautiful and colorful windows remain as a silent and yet permanent testimonial to the parishioners' devotion and generosity. In 1943, a beautiful shrine dedicated to our Lady of Perpetual Help was constructed in the chapel at the northeast corner of the church in honor of all parishioners serving in the armed forces.

The years 1945 to 1952 brought many new improvements to the parish. New stokers were installed in the church, school, rectory and convent. The parking lot was graded and blacktopped in 1950 as were the driveways to the garage, convent and rectory. A new roof I was put on the church and the exteriors of the church, rectory and convent were renovated in June and July, 1952. A wrought iron railing at the entrance of the church was donated by Father Nosal.

An impressive ceremony took place in the parish hall on Sunday, February 10, 1952, the burning of the $90,000 mortgage on the church.

On August 20, 1956 the church bells tolled the distressing news that Father Nosal had been called by God to his eternal reward.

Our Previous School

Father Vincent Sekulski was appointed as pastor in August, 1956. He primarily concerned himself with increasing the school building fund and obtaining permission from the Archbishop, Samuel Cardinal Stritch, to build a sorely needed school and gymnasium. It appeared, however, that God had other plans for this zealous priest. Father Vince died on June 17, 1957. It was the second such heartfelt loss to the parish within a period of one year.

Father Julius Gilewski assumed the duties of pastor on June 17, 1957. In January of 1958, a two story building directly across the street from the church at 601 Sobieski (Fabek's store) was purchased and a formal School building Fund Raising Campaign was inaugurated. Men of the parish organized into a campaign committee, visited all parishioners and obtained pledges amounting to about $100,000.

In June of 1959, His Excellency Albert G. Meyer, Archbishop of Chicago, granted permission to build a ten classroom school and gymnasium, at an estimated cost of $340,000. Ground breaking ceremonies took place on Sunday, August 2, 1959. Actual work on the building began on August 17, and all foundations were completed by the first week in October, 1959. The students of St. Cyril's had full use of the modern school facilities in September, 1960, and the school was dedicated and blessed by His Excellency Archbishop Albert Cardinal Meyer on September 11, 1960.

The year of 1959 was also the year that SS. Cyril and Methodius celebrated its Diamond Jubilee. There were many activities during the year highlighted by a Solemn Diamond Jubilee mass held on October 25, 1959.

The year 1960 saw the beginning of St. Cyril's basketball program. The program was organized and operated under the direction of Mr. Emil Domagalski and his assistant, Mr. Edward Dastych. Initially, the program consisted of three teams; The Angels (6th grade), The Saints (7th grade) and The Comets (8th grade). The basketball program became so successful that it was expanded to include a 3rd, 4th and 5th grade team. The first Director of the basketball program was Mr. Thomas Sniegoski, Jr., and the success of the program was in large part due to his efforts and the efforts of Mr. William Sniegowski and Mr. Ambrose Sniegowski who also volunteered their services for many years.

The shrine of Our Lady of Grace, located on Ledochowski Street, was completed in November, 1968.

A Parish Council was formally organized and its first meeting was held on February 11, 1969.

The year of 1971 was a year of change for the Catholic Church and SS. Cyril and Methodius. After 1700 years, the Church reactivated the role of Deacon and a formal two-year training program was started to train selected laymen to become ordained deacons of the Church. Mr. Norbert Lesnieski of SS. Cyril and Methodius answered the call of the Church and became the first ordained Deacon in Lemont in December, 1972. Mr. Gilbert Ende, also of St. Cyril's, entered the program in September, 1977 and was ordained a Deacon on December 16, 1979.

Another change that was brought about by the Catholic Church, was allowing laymen to help in the distribution of Holy Communion. After formal training, on September 12, 1971, three laymen were commissioned to be St. Cyril's first Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Also in 1971, the pastor, Rev. Gilewski, with the assistance of the Parish Council and its chairman, Mr. Joseph Wohead, planned and had the interior of the church repainted.

The year 1974 saw a change of leadership at SS. Cyril and Methodius. After having served the parish for 17 years as a priest, spiritual advisor and pastor, Rev. Julius Gilewski reached the age of retirement

Rev. Richard Joswiak was assigned as the new pastor and arrived to assume his position in July. A warm relationship sprung up between Father Gilewski an Father Jozwiak. This prompted Father Gilewski to continue to reside at St. Cyril's as Pastor Emeritus.

Under the spiritual guidance and leadership of Father Jozwiak, many new programs grams began. The living rosary was introduced as part of the May Crowning Ceremony

An organization known as the "Helping Hand" was formed. Its goal is to help the needy of the community. With the aid of the parishioners who donate canned foods monthly, this program began to flourish.

A Liturgical Decorating Committee of parishioners was organized to decorate the church for Christmas, Easter and Holy days, and to create the meaningful banners that grace our Sanctuary.

In 1978, SS. Cyril and Methodius felt hapiness and joy, as well as sadness and grief. In May of 1978, joy was experienced as Father Jozwiak celebrated the 30th anniversary of his priesthood with a Mass of Thanksgiving followed by a surprise social gathering for family, friends and parish parishioners in the parish hall. On December 25, 1978, sorrow and grief struck all who knew and loved Father Gilewski. On this day, Father Gil, as he was affectionately called, passed on to his heavenly reward after 48 years as a priest of God.

In June of 1979, Rev. Edward Witusik, a LaSalette priest, was assigned as an associate pastor of SS. Cyril and Methodius. Father Witusik was the editor of the LaSalette Father's Polish magazine, Poslaniec. He also wrote a weekly Polish column for the Chicago Catholic. Because Father Jozwiak was interested in preserving the culture and heritage of the Poles, a Polish Mass was introduced. Father Witusik organized the present Polish Club of Lemont. Polish classes are also being offered to children and adults who wish to learn more about their culture, heritage and language.

A highlight of Father Jozwiak's term as pastor was the burning of the school mortgage. He, along with the entire parish, was proud to announce that the parish debt had been paid off. The burning of the mortgage ceremony took place at the 5:30 P.M. Mass on Saturday, April 26, 1980.

In April of 1981, Father Edward Witusik celebrated the 25th anniversary of his priesthood with a concelebrated Mass of Thanksgiving followed by an open house in the parish hall.

From 1975 to 1984, much rejuvenation, remodeling and repairing took place in the church, convent, rectory and school. A washroom was installed in the church by a volunteer. As a safety precaution, electronic vigil lights were installed. These replaced the dangerous paraffin vigil lights and eliminated unnecessary risks. A new roof was put on the church in September of 1977, the outside of the church windows were painted, padded kneelers were installed and a new sacristy roof put on. In August of 1983, the entire top portion of the church was tuckpointed and redecorating of the church interior began. A new public address system was installed in the church and in the gymnasium.

In 1984, new energy efficient fluorescent fixtures were installed by volunteers, replacing the 25 year old existing fixtures in all classrooms, cafeteria and Learning Resource Center.

The parish and school of SS. Cyril and Methodius has been served from its onset by the Felician Sisters. Their dedication, their example, and their service were instrumental in making SS. Cyril and Methodius what it is today.

SS. Cyril and Methodius School boasts an excellent curriculum, dedicated teachers, as well as a fine lay principal. In 1979, a kindergarten was begun and in 1983 a preschool program for three and four year olds was initiated.

Our school offers a well equipped Science Lab, multi-media Learning Resource Center staffed by full-time personnel, motor skills program for kindergarten and first grade students, and an enrichment program offering students a wide range of after school activities.

A strong C.C.D. program exists. These classes are opened to students who attend the public school. The children are taught about God, religion and the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church by dedicated, qualified volunteer teachers.

SS. Cyril and Methodius has many parish organizations comprised of dedicated, hard working parishioners who are actively involved in all aspects of the parish financial and spiritual. The Parish Council is the organization responsible for coordinating the activities of all parish societies.

The Holy Name Society is made up of a dedicated membership of men who strive untiringly to work for their parish and the Holy Name of Jesus.

A strong and growing group of women are the Altar and Rosary Society. This membership is dedicated to the Blessed Mother. This group, too, is interested and supportive of all parish functions and needs.

The Mothers' Club has grown in membership over the years and is dedicated to helping fund many extras to keep SS. Cyril and Methodius School one of the best in the Archdiocese. A group interested in the welfare of the children of SS. Cyril and Methodius School is the School Board. Their main areas of responsibility center around the school and its needs.

The Adult Choir enriches many special services with their professional renditions of sacred music. The 10:00 A M. Sunday Mass is privileged to have this talented group praise God with their inspirational singing.

The Polish Club preserves the culture and heritage of our Parish's beginnings.

The sports program is now headed by an Athletic Commission and entertains not only a basketball tournament for boys and girls, but a volleyball program for students for grades four through eight. This group sponsors many programs which is highlighted by the Emil Domagalski Tournament, named after the founder of the athletic program.

A great deal of gratitude must be expressed to all those who are actively involved in all these organizations and who volunteer their time to keep these programs flourishing.

For many years, the Franciscan Fathers from St. Mary's in Lemont have been invaluable. They have been instrumental in aiding the priests and parishioners of SS. Cyril and Methodius.

In 1984, we commemorated the birthday of our parish. A special liturgical celebration was celebrated every month, each sponsored by the various parish societies. Pledges from the parishioners and friends were sought so that the recent rejuvenation of the exterior of the church, the redecorating of the interior, and the physical improvements on the parish grounds could be subsidized. The response was gratifying and pledges totaling $95,500 were received. The donors were commemorated on the newly erected plaque installed in the rear of the church; the plaque is divided into platinum, gold, silver and bronze donors, each depicting the generosity of the donors.

On May 24,1984, at 4:00 P.M., Joseph Cardinal Bernadin climaxed the celebration of the parish's 100th birthday by presiding as the main celebrant at a concelebrated Mass. Joseph Cardinal Bernadin also delivered the homily. The Mass was followed by a banquet celebration at the Joliet Renaissance Center in Joliet, Illinois.

On November 26,1984, as our centennial year celebration was drawing to a close, sadness prevailed once again at St. Cyril's when Rev. Edward Witusik passed away after a period of illness.

Fourteen years have passed since our parish celebrated its centennial During this brief period of time we have grown spiritually, physically and in population of our parish family.

Father Bruno Chmiel came to our parish in 1985 to minister to our Community, especially those who speak the Polish language.

A revival of the devotion to our Blessed Mother was seen with the institution of the Traveling Madonna and was quite evident as we celebrated Marian Year of 1988 with a large outdoor procession.

To aid those of the parish who are ill or homebound the Ministry of Care was begun. These men and women visit those in the hospitals, nursing homes and those at home to bring them comfort, cheer and to bring them the Body of Christ in communion.

Since the Christmas season is a time for helping the less fortunate, the Tree of Love program was begun. Parishioners are asked to buy a Christmas gift for the inner city poor and the poor of the Lemont area.

SS. Cyril and Methodius has also grown physically. Our school has seen many improvements. New windows were installed in 1988, the classrooms were air-conditioned in 1991, a new wooden gym floor was added in 1992 and a computer lab was also installed in 1992. This lab bears the name of Father Richard Jozwiak.

In 1989 our gymnasium was formally named the Father Gilewski Center, for the pastor who built the present school.

The year of 1992 was one that brought change to our parish. In January we suffered the loss of one of our most dedicated sisters, Sister Dulcis. We pray that she be with God this day. The year of 1992 also saw the end of an era. After 108 years the Felician Sisters were removed from the parish. These sisters had touched the lives of thousands of our parishioners

September first marked the beginning of the retirement of Father Richard Jozwiak. After 18 years he stepped down as Pastor. The occasion was marked with festivities by the adults and the school children.

On September 15th, our present pastor joined us here at SS. Cyril and Methodius. He is Father Victor Sivore.

SS. Cyril and Methodius School Faculty and Staff

Father Bruno Chmiel left us in 1994 to become pastor of St. Helen's Parish in Chicago. He was replaced by Father Antoni Bzydl until 1996. In January of 1996 Father Peter Nowacki, O.P. joined the parish to serve the Polish and English speaking people.

Within the last five years the parish has grown spiritually. We joined St. Alphonus and St. Patrick parishes in the three year Renew program. We sponsor a monthly Pro-Life holy hour and a Divine Mercy holy hour. Each First Friday of the month the Blessed Sacrament is available for public adoration. We also host a yearly Anointing of the Sick Mass. Our choir director Mr. Rick Jeffrey has also begun a children's choir.

A sign of a successful parish is growth. We have grown in numbers and in the physical plant. In 1984 the parish census was 766 families, in 1992 it was 1,047 families, today we stand at 1,503 families. Due to the increase of people at Sunday mass more parking was necessary. The parish purchased the lot on the corner of Ledochowski and Sobieski Streets and now uses it for extra parking.

Deacon Lesnieski, Rev. Jozwiak, Bishop Gorman, Fr. Sivore: New Addition Dedication Ceremony

The school population has experienced great growth. Due to this, it was decided to erect an addition to the present school building. The school now has sixteen classrooms to accommodate two classes of each grade. New office facilities, library, computer lab and meeting facilities has also been added. The new addition was dedicated on Sunday, August 24, 1997 by the Most Reverend Bishop Gorman.

SS. Cyril and Methodius parish is proud to have grown with the town of Lemont.

(read also, Our Parish History continues, 1998 - 2004)

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