Preserving History. Restoring Faith.

Help us take action to restore and preserve the precious art in the Vatican Museums.

Our Mission

The Illinois Patrons of The Arts in the Vatican Museums is a non-profit organization that raises funds for the preservation, care, exhibition, and restoration of art in the Vatican Museums.

Upcoming & Recent Events

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SAVE THE DATE: April 28, 2025
The 2nd Annual
BISHOP KEVIN BIRMINGHAM LECTURE

With: Rev. Louis Cameli and Dr. Gloria Groom

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This Lecture is dedicated to Bishop Kevin Birmingham to continue his work of serving those in the margins, reflected on his coat of arms with the saying, “Tend My People.” In one of his roles, Bishop Birmingham was the Cardinal’s representative for the Illinois Patrons. Anne Shea, President of the Board, had met Sister Norma Pimentel in Rome and discovered her body of artwork featuring migrants. When Anne shared this with Bishop Kevin, he suggested that an invitation be extended for Sister Norma to come to Chicago. From this the seed was planted to initiate a collaboration between Illinois Patrons and Holy Name Cathedral. When Bishop Kevin passed away unexpectedly on October 2, 2023, the April 15, 2024 presentation became the First Annual Bishop Kevin Birmingham Lecture.

The Vatican Museums: Integrating Art & Faith
Honoring the 10-Year Initiative of the Illinois Patrons

Held on November 2, 2024  at the University Club Chicago

Click to listen to the program introduction by Jack Shea

Read the feature article on the Vatican City State website here.

Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E.,
Secretary General, Vatican City State

Appointed by Pope Francis in 2021 as the first female Secretary General, Sr. Rafaella occupies the second highest position within the Vatican City State. As part of her responsibilities, she oversees the diverse departments of the Vatican City State, including the Vatican Museums.

Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago

As the spiritual leader for a flagship diocese in North America, Cardinal Cupich shepherds the Chicago Catholic community through transformative times.

The Illinois Patrons are going to Rome!

iubilaeum2025

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Everyone is invited to join in celebrating Jubilee Year: Pilgrims of Hope. The countdown has begun in anticipation of the official start of Jubilee 2025 on December 24, 2024 with Mass presided by Pope Francis at Saint Peter’s Square, and the opening of the Holy Door.
To find out more about the Jubilee, visit the Jubilee 2025 Vatican website and the USSB website Jubilee 2025 | USCCB.

Our Illinois Patron pilgrims will be in Rome January 18-25, 2025. The Pilgrims will be visiting the Vatican, Rome & Assisi, with a unique historical and theological guided tour and curated access to people, places & religious and cultural Icons.

Illinois Patrons enjoying their Vatican Tours in Rome

Alexi Bloom and husband Michael Flis with Monsignor Terence Hogan at the Vatican.

Illinois Patrons Board Member Michael Smith’s son, Dominick, at one of the inside tours.

Ellie Galvin and husband Andrew Robinson at Vatican Square.

Recent News

“Unlocking the Secrets of the Vatican Museums: An Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Look”
In this special episode, explore the intricate world of art restoration in the Vatican Museums. Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Patrons of the Arts of the Vatican Museums, we take you behind the scenes to showcase the dedication in preserving over 20,000 works of art.
” Unveiling Our Enduring Commitment to Art Conservation”

Reflecting on the past and looking toward the future,
the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums all share an ongoing spirit of dedication
and devotion to the preservation and conservation of art, cultural heritage, and faith.

We are excited to share with you a compilation that captures
the essence of our remarkable journey together over these last forty years.

Recent Projects & Restorations

Ciborium Monument of St John Lateran
Shields from Rwanda
Tunic Restoration
Virgin and Child
Apollo del Belvedere

Preliminary Study done in partnership with the New York Patrons Chapter

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