Holy Family Parish Celebrates 40 Years of Faith, Growth, and Service

In the mid-1980s, the Archdiocese of Chicago recognized a growing need for a new parish to serve the expanding communities of Palatine, Inverness, Hoffman Estates, and parts of Barrington. This vision was not just about meeting a geographical demand; it was also about creating a church experience that would inspire and uplift. Cardinal Joseph Bernardin envisioned a vibrant and dynamic parish that would draw people deeper into their Catholic faith through worship rich in spirit and tradition, echoing the engaging approach of neighboring Willow Creek Community Church.

Answering this call, Father Med Laz was appointed as the founding pastor of Holy Family Catholic Community in 1984. However, before there was a church building, there were people—and they needed a space to gather. That space became the gymnasium at Fremd High School in Palatine, fondly referred to as "St. Fremd." Here, the first Mass was celebrated on December 1, 1984, marking the humble beginnings of a community rooted in faith and fellowship.

The dream of a permanent home for Holy Family soon became a reality. A farm was purchased in Hoffman Estates, and construction began on a worship space that included a church, narthex, chapel, rectory, and offices. On May 5, 1988, the first Mass was celebrated in the newly constructed church, bringing the growing community together under one roof.

Holy Family continued to flourish, and in 2002, Holy Family Catholic Academy was established with just 29 students. Today, the Academy is the only International Baccalaureate World School in the northwest suburbs with an enrollment of almost 500 students. Led by Principal Kate O'Brien, HFCA prepares minds to lead tomorrow and hearts to serve today.

Under the leadership of Father Terry Keehan, Holy Family has grown into a thriving Catholic community of 15,000 members. The parish offers a wide range of ministries, numerous small Christian communities, an active youth and teen program, and an array of impactful social justice initiatives. Guided by its mission, Holy Family empowers individuals to experience New Life in Christ through sacramental living, transformative worship, lifelong spiritual growth, and service to others.

As Holy Family approaches its 40th anniversary, the community reflects on its rich history and looks forward to its future. The milestone will be celebrated on Saturday, November 23, following the 5:00 p.m. Mass, with additional celebrations after all weekend Masses.

Holy Family Catholic Community has been a beacon of faith, hope, and love for four decades, enriching the lives of its members and the surrounding communities. As parishioners and visitors come together to commemorate this anniversary, the spirit of unity and service that defined Holy Family’s beginnings continues to shine brightly.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable journey and the vibrant future ahead.