Archdiocese of Chicago
Office of the Archbishop
May 1, 2014
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I am pleased to greet you as you celebrate the 125th anniversary of Saint Teresa of Avila Parish this year, which coincides with the 500th anniversary of the birth of your patroness, Saint Teresa of Avila. Anniversaries are times for thanking God, the source of every good gift, and for gratefully remembering the many people whose deep faith , loving service and hope-filled vision have strengthened Saint Teresa of Avila Parish throughout the years. May this milestone anniversary be a celebration of abundant joy and thanksgiving!
Saint Teresa of Avila Parish has a long and rich history in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Founded in 1889 and dedicated in 1890 by Archbishop Patrick Feehan as a parish for German Catholics, it continues to be a vital Catholic presence on the north side of Chicago for a diverse community. I am deeply grateful to the many priests who have staffed the parish since its founding, preaching, catechizing and offering parishioners the sacraments, including your current pastor, Father Frank Latzko. I would like to offer my thanks as well to the Sisters of Christian Charity, who taught in the parish school, and to all who have played a part in making Saint Teresa of Avila a vibrant and dynamic parish throughout these many years.
Following your parish ‘s mission statement, may you continue to be “challenged by the Gospel, nourished by the Eucharist and inspired by the teachings of Saint Teresa of Avila, [as] witnesses of Christ’s Love, for the salvation of all people.” Saint Teresa’s own words can be of some inspiration as you endeavor to fulfill this mission: “The surest sign that we are keeping [the] two [greatest] commandments is, I think, that we should really be loving our neighbor; for we cannot be sure if we are loving God, although we may have good reasons for believing that we are, but we can know quite well if we are loving our neighbor.” As you look toward the future with trust in God’s providence, and with commitment to living as disciples of the Lord, may He grant you the grace that will enable you to grow ever closer to Jesus and to express your friendship with Him by loving and drawing others to Him through your witness to the Gospel.
Thank you for your lives of faith. You and those you love are in my prayers; please keep me and the Archdiocese of Chicago in yours.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I.
Archbishop of Chicago
Saint Teresa of Avila Parish
125th Anniversary
2014-2015
