After visiting the Dana-Thomas House, architecture fans should face east on Lawrence and look up…read more The yellow stone cross visible above the rooftops a few blocks away tops the central spire of Springfield's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The church is situated between the school and convent on one side and the rectory on the other, all executed in the same deep yellow stone. The imposing facade is Greek Revival, and when I walked up the steps in the middle of the day (on a Wednesday), the doors were open. The sanctuary is expansive and as opulently decorated as any of the great churches in Chicago. Marble is everywhere, from the wainscoting, to the niches, to that which frames the icon behind the altar. The stations of the cross are done in mosaic, but the most striking part of the church are the windows. Light floods into the tall, narrow windows showing the vivid colors of the images. Even though services weren't scheduled when I visited, there were several people seated around the church having quiet moments to themselves. More people came in while I was there, so it seems that the church is commonly open, but that visitors should enter quietly and move through the church unobtrusively and respectfully.

I spent the summer in Springfield this year on an internship, and this is the church I attended…read morewhile I was there. The congregation was so welcoming. Racially and ethnically diverse, it was a pleasure to see us all united under Christ as our Lord. Another great thing about the SCOC is that we were able to meet at the Washington Street Mission, leading to an easy connection with the organization. I was able to volunteer there and be a part of the great work the WSM is doing as well. Finally, the pastor and his family are simply the most wonderful people, and the message is firmly based on the Bible. As far as non-denominational Christian churches go, the Springfield Church of Christ is the best place to go.

love this church! open to everyone at any age, best christian church i have been to in my life!…read morejoin us now, asap starting soon the summer sermors, "at the movies" are completley fantastic!

This is a very welcoming Church. There is always plenty of staff to answer questions and show…read morepeople around. The worst music is up beat and really gets one wanting to sing. The preacher does a fantastic job of keeping his sermon relatable to the congregation. I like how he seems to throw a few things in to get a laugh. It's a great way to start your Sunday and the start of a new week. I do suggest trying the café for a drink. I've yet to find one drink or snack I didn't enjoy. I would say be careful getting something to drink before church due to it sometimes taking a little bit to get your drink.

I appreciate the friendliness and the diverse community of the church…read more It is a place where people can get involved. The theological foundation of the church is biblically solid. The preaching and the teaching are inspiring, encouraging and challenging. The worship arts is professionally done and draws the worshipers into the presence of God.

Wonderful liturgy! Enthusiastic young priest. Great music and loving church family. Educational…read moreopportunities are offered during the school year; Adult Sunday school, children's Sunday school and confirmation classes. The Cathedral has a men's group that meets regular for breakfast and project planning. There are two women's group that serve the parish. The women's forum meets monthly between service and the women's group meets over lunch. Both are informative and inclusive. Church choir meets on Sunday's between services also- no extra evening rehearsals on regular weeks. Occasionally before Christmas or Easter some extra rehearsals are added. The organist is MAGNIFICENT! She recently completed her doctorate in organ performance. There are two services each Sunday. 8:00 is a simple spoken service, and is considered low mass. 10:30 has hymns, incense, chanting and a more formal liturgy. If you are looking for a traditional worship experience, the Cathedral Church of St. Paul is the place to be!

I went there for 7 years when I lived there now since I have lived in Chicago for 8 years I still…read morefollow them. I watch their service on Sunday, watch the BIBLE lessons on Wednesday and participate in the healing service on Tuesday. It gives a lot to my life.

So, I walked in the snow to get here after learning 15 minutes before Sunday School. But, I managed…read moreto get into a Sunday school class by about 9:30. Everyone was friendly from my walk into the door to the break between services. I didn't sit long if at all without someone coming over introducing themselves and welcoming me in. As for the Sunday school topic it was from James 1 about being slow to speak and quick to hear. Slow to anger. It was what I needed to hear in a ministry today so I wan we'll pleased with my visit thus far. Here are the good to knows about this church if you're considering coming: If you have kids, there is a nursery. There is also coffee and donuts out for snack between services. Oh and the building is much bigger than it looks from the outside. Parking is on the street or in between the INB buildings and or at the restaurant next door when they are closed.

Bread pudding with Sauce Anglis Hopefully we will have…read moretaking classes here very soon in the different location one of less hostility.