Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church
A Greek-Catholic, Ruthenian community in northern Illinois.
Who we are
A Greek-Catholic, Ruthenian community in northern Illinois. The Byzantine Rite is one of twenty-three Eastern Catholic Church in full communion with the Holy See in Rome.
Pray with us
Divine Service Schedule
- Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 10:00am, Holidays and Thursdays at 7:00pm*
- Matins: Sundays at 9:00am
- Vespers: Saturdays at 5:00pm
*See bulletin for Holy Day and current schedule
RADIO PROGRAM
Light of the East
Listen to Fr. Thomas Loya teach about the beauty of the Eastern Catholic church. With over 1,000 recorded episodes, “Light of the East” is a unique program that reveals how the riches of the Eastern Catholic Churches – their liturgies, spirituality and relevancy – are a gift to the whole Church and to today’s world. “Light of the East” is broadcast in the greater Chicago area on AM750 WNDZ Sundays at 1:30 p.m. CST or listen online by visiting the podcast homepage.
Latest News
Read reflections and Learn about events at Annunciation
Glory to Jesus Christ!
Join Our Community
Prayer
The prayers of the Eastern Catholic Churches are incredibly immersive. We experience our Divine Liturgy with all of our senses. This immersion helps us to realize that our church and our Liturgy truly reflect the idea of Heaven on earth.
Events
Our parish life is richly blessed with events throughout the year which help us grow as a community of Eastern Catholics. These events include Christmas on the Prairie, the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, Holy Week, and much more!
Our Prairie
Our award-winning prairie is truly an extension of our parish ethos— bringing our sacramental, liturgical worldview into nature. It is a respite amidst the hustle and bustle of our growing community and a key component in our parish evangelization efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect at an Eastern Catholic Church
Can I attend your services?
Yes! Everyone is welcome to attend Divine Liturgy and any other service. Attending Divine Liturgy will fulfill your Sunday Mass obligation.
How do I receive the Eucharist at Divine Liturgy?
Only Catholics in good standing with the Church are allowed to receive Holy Communion. Remain standing, open your mouth, tilt your head back, do not extend your tongue. The Holy Eucharist is dropped into your mouth from a little spoon. Do not say Amen.
What is “Agape” after Divine Liturgy on Sundays?
We gather after Divine Liturgy for food and fellowship. All visitors are welcome!
What language are your services?
All of our services are in English, with occasional parts in Old Church Slavonic, the traditional language of our church.
Do I need to fast before receiving Holy Eucharist?
Our tradition is to fast from midnight before receiving Holy Communion. The Church requires a one-hour fast from food and beverages (except water and medicine) before receiving Communion.
Do I need to fast before receiving Holy Eucharist?
Our tradition is to fast from midnight before receiving Holy Communion. The Church requires a one-hour fast from food and beverages (except water and medicine) before receiving Communion.
Contact Us
Join us for services, visit our parish, or see the prairie!