About Lumen Cordium Society

A Tradition of Giving

Shortly before his death in 1996, Joseph Cardinal Bernardin established the Lumen Cordium (Light of Hearts) Society in recognition of the women and men whose examples of stewardship stand as true testimonies to our faith alive in the Archdiocese of Chicago.

In 1997, Archbishop Francis Eugene George, O.M.I. was sent by Pope John Paul II to shepherd over two million Catholics living in Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois. The Lumen Cordium Society was a fledgling group that found its roots and inspiration from soon to become Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I. Under his guidance, the Society has thrived and is now the preeminent fund-raising group for the Archdiocese of Chicago.

The Lumen Cordium Society recognizes the unique history, personality and strength of the Archdiocese of Chicago. It celebrates the inspired generosity and vision of both the laity and clergy that came before us, building hundreds of spires that reach to heaven throughout Cook and Lake Counties as a testimony to their faith.

In the 21st century, the Society welcomes those who, like their ancestors before them, know in their hearts that they have a mission from birth to leave something that will live long after them as testimony to the faith and vision of these times.

The Society’s purpose is to establish a legacy of strengthening the faith and spiritual future of next generations graced by the gospel and spirit of Jesus Christ.

Hearts on Fire

The Lumen Cordium Society is a special alliance of Catholic men and women who take a leadership role in the work of the Church. As a member, your generosity will set an example of good stewardship as you reach out with love to people and ministries in need of your assistance. While the satisfaction derived from advancing the mission of the Church in Chicago is the greatest reward, the benefits described below are intended to convey Cardinal George's gratitude for your support.

From Left: Cardinal George and Herta and John Cuneo, the Rogowski Family, Ralph Hansen, Cardinal George and Bill McEssy

Patrons

Those donating at the $1,000 to $2,499 level will be:

• Recognized in our annual Publication of Society members
• Included in our Prayer Intention Book of Society Members placed in the Cardinal’s chapel
• Recipient of a complimentary subscription to The Catholic New World
• Invited to our annual Mass and Reception with the Cardinal

Benefactors

Those donating at the $2,500 to $4,999 level will be:

• Receiving all the above Patron benefits
• Invited to our annual Faith Enrichment Lecture
• Invited to our annual “Heaven on Earth” tour of historical churches
• Invited to an annual Reception at the Cardinal’s residence

Archbishop’s circle

Those donating at the $5,000 to $9,999 level will be:

• Receiving all of the above Benefactor benefits
• Invited to the Cardinal’s Christmas Reception at the residence

Cardinal’s guild

Those donating at the $10,000+ level will be:

• Receiving all the above Archbishop’s Circle benefits
• Invited to the Guild Dinner with the Cardinal at his residence