Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church was founded in 1970 as an English-language Orthodox mission to be a Beacon of Orthodoxy in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The community began with a prayer service at Grace Lutheran Church in Prospect Heights on February 1, 1970, and soon moved Sunday liturgies to the cafeteria at Prospect High School in Mount Prospect.
In 1975, the parish purchased property on North Quentin Road in Palatine, including two lots and a home that was used as a rectory. In the late 1970s, during a period without a resident pastor, the parish was served by the diocesan chancellor. Since the rectory was no longer needed as a pastoral residence, it was remodeled and converted into a small chapel and multi-use space.
As the community continued to grow, a dedicated church building was constructed and consecrated in 1982. This building—now serving as the parish hall—was the spiritual home of the parish for many years. In August of 1985, Holy Resurrection welcomed its current rector, Fr. Alexander Kuchta, as a full-time priest. He continues to serve the parish faithfully to this day.
In 2005, the parish completed its current church building in the traditional Byzantine style.
Over the years, Holy Resurrection has become a diverse Orthodox community, with members of Greek, Carpatho-Russian, Ukrainian, Russian, Serbian, Romanian, and Arabic heritage. About one-third of the parish are converts from Protestant and Roman Catholic backgrounds, and many non-Orthodox friends also participate in parish life.
All services are conducted in English, and the choir sings in traditional four-part harmonies.
The parish offers a Church School, adult education classes, catechumen instruction, and regular opportunities for fellowship. Through worship, teaching, and service, Holy Resurrection continues to fulfill its mission as a Beacon of Orthodoxy in the northwest suburbs.