St. John’s Red Doors are the portal to our parish community that embodies God’s abundant, unconditional love.

St. John's has been graciously welcoming people for over 140 years in Chicago’s Old Irving Park neighborhood. Beginning in 1883 with one neighbor teaching Sunday School in her living room, we’re now a community fridge and pantry that never closes, a Thanksgiving table set for the neighborhood and beyond for 41 years and counting, apartments furnished for newly arrived immigrant families, music offered freely to all, and a congregation where every person is not merely welcomed but celebrated. That’s what our Red Doors are all about. What began in medieval England as a sign of sanctuary for anyone fleeing danger has become a tradition in our parish.

On a Sunday morning, you might see our new Rector, The Rev. Cindy Rigali Lund, standing in front of our open Red Doors inviting people to join the sacred celebration inside. Her presence is an authentic invitation, part of the St. John’s movement and mission to create God’s dream on earth. We are building upon the sacred tradition of Red Doors, and our vibrant community is being extended to friends, families, neighbors, Chicago land, and the world. In our current climate, people need a space for hope, healing and action – and St. John’s is just that!

Join the momentum of this exciting next chapter, as we embark on a

Season of Radical Welcome. Your 2027 pledge is the tangible sign of your gratitude for St. John’s past and present mission, as well as enthusiasm for our bright future. This year, help us meet our goal of 100% participation, and our budget goal of $365,000, reflecting our deep communal commitment to radically welcome neighbors near and far. Join us today to open the Red Doors and transform the world through our shared mission: We gather to celebrate God’s gifts — open hearts, minds, and hands — and transform the world!

Peace and grace,
Rev. Cindy+