St. Irene Church is sited to complement the campus-like atmosphere of the existing facilities and grounds. The brick-clad structure conveys a welcoming character appropriate for a place of worship. The building program included a Eucharistic Hall, Daily Liturgy Chapel, Reconciliation Chapel, Gathering Space, Sacristy, and Music Room. The fan-shaped Eucharistic Hall features seating that wraps around the altar platform thus fostering a sense of community and closeness for the congregation. Two exposed steel trusses support a central light monitor which introduces abundant daylight into the main worship space. The gathering space features stained glass windows relocated from the previous church building and a two-level marble baptistry. A “Season’s of the Church” tapestry forms an appropriate backdrop for the main altar. The ecclesiastical furniture was designed to complement the architectural design.
“Paul... I congratulate you on the completion of St. Irene’s Church. It is a wonderful building to celebrate in. I am sure you know how happy the parishioners are. Nice going!”
Most Reverend Joseph L. Imesch
Bishop
Diocese of Joliet
“Thanks for a fantastic church which will outlast all of us.”
Reverend Thomas A. Corbino
Pastor
St. Irene Church
Year: 1995
Location: Warrenville, Illinois
Area: 14,754 square feet
Key Features
100% attendance increase in 12 months
700-seat Eucharist Hall
60-seat Daily Liturgy Chapel
reconciliation chapel
foyer/gathering space
sacristy
music room
extension of the campus -like character of the facilities and grounds
Awards
2000 Silver Award, Illinois Indiana Masonry Institute
1999 Excellence in Architecture Award, AIA Northeast Illinois
1999 Merit Award, Illinois Council of Society of American Registered
Architects