Italy! Locally

Come check out a shrine dedicated to a diminutive woman, an indomitable "CEO" for the Sacred Heart, mother to thousands and a Chicago Saint!  As in Italy, we will walk through a small set of unassuming doors into a surprisingly large sacred space - - a church disguised as one of Chicago's skyscrapers and run by faithful Franciscans who anchor Chicago’s downtown business district.  Another stop will be at a small singularly beautiful jewelbox. Built by Italians and heavily influenced by Italy's finest craftsmen, thier intense love for the Madonna will be evident. We will lunch at the two level Italian market Eataly - featuring wines, cheeses, Italian kitchen gizmos, and multiple mouthwatering restaurant options.  Small museum and gift shop also available.

Bus from: Ascension of Our Lord, 1S314 Summit Ave, Oakbrook Terrace, IL

Or drive separately and meet at: The National Shrine of St. Francis Xavier Cabrini, 2520 N Lakeview Ave, Chicago

See also: St Peter in the Loop and Assumption

Lunch is not included in the ticket price.

Fun Fact: Mother Cabrini helped lay brick for the Columbus Hospital extension she founded and could also be met in the alleys begging for daily necessities.

Because sacred spaces are not market places, all are welcome to come without cost. Our collaboration, research, tour prep and promo, of course, require funding. We do rely on the majority of participants to purchase tickets or donate something, but everyone should feel free to join us, for free. So please call us if you would like to be added to the list. All external fees, such as transportation, museum entrance etc are necessarily passed on to participants. Advance registration required.

 Would you like to take this tour, or a similar one, on another date? We tour other churches in the Aurora area. 

Just call! 312-869-2286. Minimum group size 5; maximum size varies.