Welcome
Home
Whether you've been away for a few months or a few decades, there's a place for you at St. Francis Solanus. No explanations needed. We're simply glad you're thinking about coming back.
The door has never closed
People step away from the Church for all kinds of reasons. Life gets busy. A move, a marriage, a loss, or a hard question pulls you in another direction. Sometimes there was a hurt that never got talked through.
Whatever your story, God has not stopped looking for you, and neither has your parish. Like the father in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), the Church doesn't wait at the door with a lecture. She runs out to meet you.
Five good reasons
You don't need to have it all figured out. Here are a few things worth knowing as you think it over.
Your Baptism made you part of the family of God, and nothing erases that. Whether or not you've been to Mass lately, this is still your home.
"You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32). The Church has been helping people with life's biggest questions for two thousand years: why we're here, how to live, and what comes after.
Through the seven sacraments, Christ meets us with His own life and strength. Confession offers a fresh start, and the Eucharist feeds us for the week ahead. Explore the sacraments.
A parish is a family of people walking the same road. Small groups, Bible studies, and simple conversations after Mass help faith grow. Find a small group.
Faith grows when we put it to work, from serving at the food pantry to helping at Mass. There's a place for your gifts here. See our ministries.
Not sure where to start, or carrying something heavy? Fr. Arisman is glad to talk, with no pressure and no judgment. Ask the Pastor.
Your first steps home
There's no sign-up required and no right order. These are simply the steps most people find helpful.
Come to Mass
Just come. Sit wherever you're comfortable, follow along in the missal in the pew, and don't worry if you've forgotten the responses.
Mass times →Go to Confession
If it's been a long time, Confession is the best place to begin again. Tell the priest how long it's been and he'll gently walk you through it.
How Confession works →Get connected
Register as a parishioner, introduce yourself after Mass, or join a group. Small steps add up to a real home.
Become a parishioner →Helpful resources
A few trusted places to learn more about the faith, from home and on your own schedule.
Catholic movies, talks, and studies, including a series on the sacraments.
Stories Catholics Come HomeReal stories from people who found their way back.
Free course Aquinas 101Short videos on the big questions of faith from the Thomistic Institute.
Becoming Catholic OCIAFor adults finishing their sacraments or exploring the faith.
Common questions
Don't see yours? Send Fr. Arisman a question or call the parish office.
(217) 222-2898I've been away a long time. Where do I even start?
Start by coming to Mass. If you've been away from the sacraments for a while, going to Confession is the next good step, and it's the usual way to prepare to receive Holy Communion again. If you'd rather talk first, reach out to Fr. Arisman. He's happy to meet with you.
Can I receive Communion the first time I come back?
If you've been away from the sacraments and are aware of serious sin, the Church asks that you go to Confession first. You're still welcome at Mass in the meantime. If you're unsure about your situation, just ask Fr. Arisman. That's what he's here for.
I'm nervous about Confession. What if I don't remember how?
That's completely normal. Simply tell the priest it's been a long time and that you'd like his help. He'll guide you step by step. Priests are glad to hear these confessions, and nothing you say will shock them.
I'm divorced. Am I still welcome?
Yes. Divorce alone does not keep you from the sacraments. If you have remarried outside the Church, please talk with Fr. Arisman. He can explain the annulment process, also called a declaration of nullity, and help you take the next step.
I never received First Communion or Confirmation. Is it too late?
It's never too late. Adults who were baptized Catholic can prepare to receive the sacraments they missed, usually through our OCIA process. Learn about OCIA.
I was hurt by someone in the Church. Can we talk about it?
Yes, and we're sorry. Hurts like that are real, and they deserve to be heard. Fr. Arisman would welcome a conversation, in person or through Ask the Pastor, whenever you're ready.
Will people notice I've been gone?
Mostly, people will just be glad to see you. No one is keeping track. Come early, sit anywhere, and stay for a few minutes after Mass if you'd like to say hello.
Come home this weekend.
Join us for Mass on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. or Sunday at 7:00, 9:00, or 11:00 a.m. Or reach out first. We're here either way.