The first time I rode the L out into Chicago's neighborhoods, away from the lake, I noticed a unique skyline. The view is of 3 to 4 story buildings and church towers rising above them.
It reminded me of a time when each neighborhood would have spiritual centers. Residents would walk to worship and know many of their community members. Even for those who choose not to attend services, it still helped create strong neighborhoods.
Those days are gone and the towers are going to start coming down. In the past couple years the archdiocese of Chicago has announced the closing of dozens of schools and churches. I've read the rumor that as many as a fourth of the parishes will be eliminated in the next couple decades.
It reminded me of a time when each neighborhood would have spiritual centers. Residents would walk to worship and know many of their community members. Even for those who choose not to attend services, it still helped create strong neighborhoods.
Those days are gone and the towers are going to start coming down. In the past couple years the archdiocese of Chicago has announced the closing of dozens of schools and churches. I've read the rumor that as many as a fourth of the parishes will be eliminated in the next couple decades.
While some buildings may be bought by new congregations, most won't. The old churches have little parking and often need extensive renovations. Most people now drive to their preferred house of worship instead of walking down the block to whatever happens to be around.
Best case scenario would be that developers find adaptive reuses--say as condos or apartments. Then most of the exterior would remain as the interior is gutted. Doesn't seem likely. A developer would make more money building luxury highrises or office towers on vacant lots.
In Woodlawn people are trying to save Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest Catholic church gutted twice by fire. Yesterday it was announced St. Adalbert's in Pilsen (pictured here) didn't raise enough funds for restoration and will be closed.
The skylines of many neighborhoods are about to dramatically change. Seems a shame to lose so many beautiful buildings. I feel like I'm documenting the end of an era.
Best case scenario would be that developers find adaptive reuses--say as condos or apartments. Then most of the exterior would remain as the interior is gutted. Doesn't seem likely. A developer would make more money building luxury highrises or office towers on vacant lots.
In Woodlawn people are trying to save Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest Catholic church gutted twice by fire. Yesterday it was announced St. Adalbert's in Pilsen (pictured here) didn't raise enough funds for restoration and will be closed.
The skylines of many neighborhoods are about to dramatically change. Seems a shame to lose so many beautiful buildings. I feel like I'm documenting the end of an era.
No comments:
Post a Comment