Since 1867, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church has brought the Good News of Jesus Christ to Winfield and the surrounding area.
We welcome you to become a part of the St. John's community. Our parish is continually being transformed and lifted up by Christ in the sacraments. In turn, each one of us can lift each other up and create change in the world around us.
I pray that you will feel at home here at St. John's, and become an active member of our community. As we strive to build up the Kingdom of God on this journey to the Father's house, our heavenly homeland, you can help us lead all souls to heaven!
In Christ,
Very Rev. Christopher Lankford, KHS
Pastor
Are you interested in the history and meaning of St. John the Baptist Church? Take a video tour, hosted by Father Chris, to learn more.
We have created a 6-part video series on the different areas of the church. Simply click on the photo or link below and enjoy!
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church was opened in Winfield to serve the growing community. Stone was obtained from the Naperville Quarry to erect the foundation of the church which still stands in our current chapel.
Sisters Paula, Euphamia and Michaela of the Order of the School Sisters of St. Francis came from their mother house in Campbellsport, WI (now Milwaukee). A new rectory was built, and the old rectory was converted into the school.
A bolt of lightening struct the wooden steeple of the church and the fire spread to the roof. A year and one day later, the new church was completed and dedicated by Most Reverend James E. Quigley, Archbishop of Chicago.
In 1942, the cornerstone for the new school was laid. The school had four classrooms, a meeting hall with stage and a kitchen.
In 1991, our new gymnasium opened, allowing for hundreds of volleyball and basketball games and hours of fun!