Founded in 1909 and located on the
South Side of Chicago, St. Columbanus Church and School served the needs of
Irish immigrants who moved into the prosperous Park Manor neighborhood during
this time. Following World War II and the end of the restrictive covenant
agreements, the neighborhood shifted from Irish-American to African-American.
By 1954, the Parish membership became predominately African-American, making
St. Columbanus Church one of the oldest Black Catholic parishes in Chicago.
After a period of decline, St.
Columbanus Church is now on the upswing. The Archdiocese has made a financial
investment in the parish's infrastructure ensuring the buildings are safe,
secure, and up-to-date. Fueled by this investment, since 1999, church membership
has grown 20% and school enrollment has increased by 24%. Young families are
returning to the homes they grew up in, rediscovering the beauty of the Park
Manor neighborhood and the historic Chicago Bungalow homes.