Chicago: Celebrating St. John Bosco-St. James Parish’s Seniors

By Fr. Miguel Suarez, SDB, Pastor, St. John Bosco-St. James Parish

(Chicago, Ill. – July 22) – The tropical warmth of the Hawaiian Islands met the deep gratitude of the Chicago Salesian community last Saturday, July 18, as St. John Bosco-St. James Parish hosted a vibrant appreciation event dedicated entirely to its senior members.

The special morning celebration brought together dozens of parish elders for a festive event designed to honor their generous contributions, faith, and wisdom.

In keeping with the Salesian tradition of joyful hospitality, the parish’s special events team transformed the Savio Center into a bright island paradise. As seniors arrived, volunteers greeted them with smiles and placed colorful Hawaiian leis around their necks, thereby instantly setting a cheerful, festive tone for the morning.

“We value and love our elders deeply,” one of the event organizers said. “This morning was our way of saying thank you for everything they do to anchor our parish family.”

The heart of the event centered on bringing the community together through shared experiences. The morning's itinerary beautifully balanced leisure, entertainment, and spiritual reflection.

Attendees were treated to a delicious morning brunch, which provided the opportunity for longtime friends to catch up and for new connections to form. The Savio Center was filled with laughter and energy as seniors participated in interactive games and enjoyed uplifting music.

In alignment with the parish's spiritual mission, heartfelt prayers of thanksgiving were offered, together with prayers of petition for continued blessings of good health and joy for all the seniors of the parish.

The playground dimension of the Salesian oratory is for all, young and young at heart. The event concluded with warm smiles, uplifted hearts, and a renewed sense of connection among the St. John Bosco-St. James Parish community. The parish’s leadership extended their special thanks to the volunteers, whose hard work made the tropical celebration a reality.