St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bradford is marking 150 years of faith and community with a series of events throughout the year, inviting the public to join in the celebration.
Founded in 1876, the same year the United States celebrated its centennial, and the Catholic Diocese of Peoria completed its first year, St. John’s has served as a spiritual home for generations of families in Bradford. In 2025, the Diocese consolidated four area parishes into one – Incarnation of Our Lord Parish, with St. John’s among them.
The church, located at 218 E. First St., is a striking example of Neo-Gothic Revival architecture, designed by University of Illinois graduate George P. Stauduhar, known for his work on Catholic churches across the Midwest. Visitors are encouraged to admire the church’s stained-glass windows, crafted by Munich artist F.X. Zettler, who earned top honors at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
The anniversary celebration begins Friday, Oct. 17, with an organ concert featuring Mary McKean at 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to view the historic windows.
Additional events hosted by the Bradford Catholic Women of St. John’s include:
• Nov. 2: Cemetery tour and scavenger hunt following 10 a.m. Mass
• Dec. 6: Bradford Christmas Open House and church tour, 4–7 p.m.
• Jan. 17: Trivia Night at the Carmody Center, 7 p.m.
• Feb. 15: Breakfast at the Carmody Center following 10 a.m. Mass
• March 15: St. Patrick’s Day Dinner at the Carmody Center, 5 p.m.
• April 19: Final anniversary celebration and Mass, 2 p.m.
For more information or to follow their journey go to Facebook at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church – 150 Years – Bradford Ill.
