About SJC
65+ Years in Our Community
St. John of the Cross was founded in 1960 as a vibrant Catholic parish and school community committed to living out the Gospel through worship, education, and service. Located in Western Springs, we serve individuals and families seeking a deeper relationship with Christ and a strong, values-based education.
Our parish is a home where faith is nurtured, relationships are built, and community thrives.
Parish History
1960
Rev. William Bennett was appointed pastor of a new parish to be established in Western Springs.
1961
School opened with 595 students
1962
Builders’ Club began purchasing additional property for future parish buildings
1968
Rectory built
1976
First Mass in new church
1980
Rev. Joseph F. McDonnell appointed Pastor
1992
Parish Center dedicated
1996
Rev. Richard P. Hynes appointed Pastor
2007
Rev. David P. Dowdle appointed Pastor
2010
Parish celebrated 50 years in Western Springs
2018
Rev. Marc W. Reszel appointed Pastor
2024
Rev. Don Einar S. Cambe appointed Pastor
The Stunning Architecture of SJC
Explore the vibrant design and history behind our Parish
Safe Environment Requirements
All St. John of the Cross Parish volunteers who serve with children and/or youth are required to complete a VIRTUS training and background check:
Create Your VIRTUS Account
Go to www.virtusonline.org → First-Time Registrant → Begin the Registration Process
Select Chicago, IL (Archdiocese) from the drop-down
Primary location: SJC Parish (not the school)
Log into Your VIRTUS Account & Complete the Following:
✅ Archdiocesan Standards of Behavior (ASB) – Sign online
✅ Criminal Background Check (CBC) – Every 3 years
✅ Protecting God’s Children (PGC) – Training + Recertification every 3 years
✅ Training Bulletins – Monthly, read & answer question
✅ Mandated Reporter Training (MRT) – Every 3 years
Return These Forms to Theresa Reyes (no electronic signatures)
- CANTS 689
- CANTS 22 – Acknowledgement of Mandated Reporter Status
- Questions or Help? Contact Theresa Reyes at treyes@stjohnofthecross.org or 708-246-4404.
Want to Join Our Parish?
Please contact our team with any questions, we look forward to meeting you