St. Nicholas Church in Chicago is a true gem of the Ukrainian community, which has been serving as a center of spiritual life for over a century. Built after the model of Kyiv's Saint Sophia Cathedral, it combines elements of Byzantine and Cossack-Baroque styles, reflecting the richness of Ukrainian ecclesiastical architecture.
The history of the church began in August 1905, when a Ukrainian family, the Olenets family, baptized their son in Chicago, which became a catalyst for establishing the parish. The first church, a wooden building, was acquired in 1906 by the community of Galician immigrants, who were committed to preserving their faith and cultural traditions in a new land. Thanks to their sacrifice, particularly the contributions of parishioners, the community was able to secure necessary funding for the further development of the church.
The new magnificent church of Saint Nicholas was built in 1915, and it exudes a special atmosphere. Talented Ukrainian iconographers, including Fr. Hlib Verkhovynskyi and Teodor Katamaj, decorated its walls with frescoes in 1928. Notably, the majestic image of the Virgin Mary O-Ranta adorns the central apse, touching the hearts of visitors. Later, artists from Ukraine contributed to the interior decoration, and marble altars from Italy were ordered, adding additional sanctity to this holy place.
Besides spiritual services, the parish of Saint Nicholas also plays an important cultural role. Activities included societies such as the “Native School,” a choir named after Leschenko, a Tchaikovsky music society, and others that preserved and developed the Ukrainian language and culture. Over the years, the community actively supported Ukraine’s national struggle, raising funds for Ukraine, organizing public events and marches.
Today, the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas is an important spiritual center for the Ukrainian diaspora in the USA. Its rich historical and cultural past, unique architectural decoration, and magnificent spiritual life make it a special sanctuary reflecting the millennia-old traditions of the Ukrainian people and their resilient spirit.
Current information:
Address: 835 N Oakley Blvd, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
Contacts: +1 (773)-276-4537
