S
t. Edmund School in Oak Park may be sold soon, according to Rev. Carl Morello, pastor of Ascension and St. Edmund parishes. The school was closed nearly a decade ago due to declining enrollment, but it has been used by the Migrant Ministry and youth groups since then.

    The building's maintenance costs around $75,000 annually, including heating expenses. Morello plans to contact the Archdiocese of Chicago to explore options for selling the property. The archdiocese will then work with potential buyers, considering community input.

    St. Edmund School was built in 1917 and features a unique French Gothic façade. If sold, it's possible that the building could be repurposed as a community center or converted into condos while maintaining its exterior structure.

    The Migrant Ministry, which has operated out of St. Edmund School for two years, is reviewing alternative spaces to meet the changing needs of migrants in the area. The ministry serves around 60 people per day, down from 200 previously, due to increased hesitation among migrants to leave their homes.

    Morello acknowledges that selling the school will be an emotional process, as it holds significant historical and spiritual value for the parish community. He reassures concerned individuals that the church itself is not being closed, but rather the school building is being considered for sale.