May Crowning honors tradition at St. Coletta’s of Illinois

St. Coletta’s of Illinois marked a cherished tradition on May 8 with a May Crowning ceremony honoring its beloved Blessed Mother statue, bringing together participants, students, staff and community members in a celebration of faith and shared history.

The morning began with Mass in the organization’s cafeteria, celebrated by Fr. Dan Korenchan of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Orland Hills. Following the service, attendees processed outdoors to the statue, where they gathered in prayer and reflection.

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Participants, students and staff each took part in the ceremony by placing flowers at the base of the statue -- a meaningful gesture of devotion that has been passed down through generations at St. Coletta’s. The ceremony culminated as Kennedy School student Najee L. and adult Community Day Services (CDS) participant Cole Z. climbed the steps together to crown the Blessed Mother with a wreath of flowers.

The statue itself holds deep historical and emotional significance for the St. Coletta’s community. A marble landmark that dates back to the organization’s early years, it features four boys at the Blessed Mother’s side, modeled after students who once attended Kennedy School. For decades, it has stood as a symbol of care, dignity and belonging for individuals served by the organization.

In conjunction with this year’s May Crowning, St. Coletta’s of Illinois is launching a special appeal to preserve and protect the historic statue. Exposure to the elements has begun to take a toll on the marble structure, and funds raised will support efforts to safeguard it for future generations.

“This tradition is a beautiful reminder of who we are and where we come from,” said St. Coletta’s CEO Heather Benedick. “Preserving the statue means preserving a piece of our shared story.”

Founded in 1949 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Coletta’s of Illinois is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through educational, residential and community-based programs.

For more information about the preservation appeal or to make a donation, please visit www.stcolettasofil.org or call 708-342-5200.