St. John Berchmans Catholic Church Wedding Guide

St. John Berchmans is one of Logan Square’s treasures: a historic parish founded by Belgian immigrants at the turn of the 20th century, its Renaissance-style church rising over Logan Boulevard. For couples who love the northwest side, it offers what the downtown churches cannot: a true neighborhood wedding, with grand architecture and a parish community feel.

A St. John Berchmans Wedding Film

Watch Cayli & Matt’s wedding: vows at St. John Berchmans, then a celebration at the Chicago Athletic Association downtown, complete with a groomsmen basketball game.

The Ceremony

Weddings at St. John Berchmans are traditional Catholic celebrations, offered as a full Nuptial Mass or a Wedding Rite. The church’s scale and ornament give the liturgy real grandeur on film, and the Logan Boulevard setting, one of Chicago’s greenest boulevards, makes for a beautiful arrival and exit sequence.

Music Guidelines to Expect

Like many historic Catholic churches, St. John Berchmans follows sacred music standards: expect an approved list of classical selections (Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” Pachelbel’s “Canon in D,” Clarke’s “Trumpet Voluntary,” Schubert’s and Gounod’s “Ave Maria”), a parish organist and cantor who typically have the right of first refusal, and no secular or recorded music during the liturgy. Live trumpet and violin are usually welcome additions. Confirm the current guidelines and fees with the parish’s wedding coordinator early; the approved classics are approved for good reason, and on film, they never miss.

Photo & Video Locations

Logan Square’s boulevards, the Illinois Centennial Monument, and the neighborhood’s murals and greystones are all minutes away, a distinctly Chicago alternative to the downtown backdrops. And when couples do head downtown for the reception, as Cayli and Matt did, the drive itself becomes part of the film’s story.

Filming at St. John Berchmans

We have filmed here and know the church’s sightlines and light. As with all historic parishes, we confirm videographer placement guidelines before the day, position for the processional and vows without intruding on the liturgy, and catch the recessional as the doors open onto the boulevard.

FAQ

Can non-parishioners marry at St. John Berchmans?

Catholic parishes generally welcome couples with a connection to the parish or neighborhood, with standard marriage preparation requirements. Contact the parish office to confirm policies and dates.

What reception venues pair well with St. John Berchmans?

Logan Square’s own lofts and event spaces are minutes away, and downtown venues are an easy drive; our couple celebrated at the Chicago Athletic Association on Michigan Avenue.

Who films weddings at St. John Berchmans?

We do, and we love a Logan Square wedding. Check your date →