St John Of The Cross Convent, 5103 Caroline Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558, US

This is more than a church—it's a community. At the Congregation of Saint Joseph Ministry Center, visitors can attend Catholic mass; buy religous statues and brightly painted stationery—some by resident Sisters who are artists—at the Gift Shop; practice yoga, participate in peace prayer and reiki attunements and other spirtual and health activities at The Well Spirtuality Center; and volunteer with the School on Wheels, which teaches free English courses to low-income immigrant adults in Cook County and DuPage County. And the above list doesn't even skim the surface of the programs, lectures, retreats and other services offered through the Ministry Center. The Congregation of Saint Josesph Ministry Center has been present in the La Grange community for more than 100 years—it was one of seven formerly independent congregations of St. Joseph that founded the Congregation of Sisters of St. Joseph in 2007, with ministries in eight states and in Japan. The current facility was built in the 1960s. The bright, modern building and cheerful, helpful staff make it a place that's easy to return to.