Current Events

Sunrise Mass

A bright, new day dawned along the Chicago lakefront on August 3 with a gathering of more than 100 people praying for peace and an end to violence.

Organized by the black deacons of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the sunrise service celebrated its ninth year of bringing together people of all races to pray for non-violence in families, schools and in the streets.

Rev. Paul Whittington, pastor of St. Katherine Drexel Parish, presided at the Mass while Deacon Herbert Johnson gave the homily. The Mass at Oakwood Beach drew 23 deacons and several priests.

Deacons of the Archdiocese of Chicago line up for the procession before the Sunrise Mass for peace on August 3 at Oakwood Beach. (Photo by Deacon Ron Morowczynski)
People from throughout the Chicago area gathered at Oakwood Beach to pray for non-violence. (Photo by Deacon Ron Morowczynski)
Deacon Herbert Johnson carries the Book of the Gospels during the Mass for peace. (Photo by Deacon Richard Hudzik)