Cardinal Wilton Gregory’s exceptional faith journey began more than six decades ago at St. Carthage Catholic School on the South Side of Chicago. There, he felt God’s call to the priesthood even though he was not a Catholic.

He was received into the Church at the age of 11 and continued his studies in the archdiocese schools and seminaries until he was ordained in 1973. 

In recognition of his extraordinary gifts and devotion, he was ordained a bishop in 1983. Chicagoans have taken pride in his numerous contributions to the faith and society, notably his strength when, as Bishop of Belleville, and president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, he championed the 2002 Charter for the Protection of Children and Youth, including policies that ensured no priest with a substantiated allegation of child sexual abuse would ever serve in ministry.

His lifetime of service to the Lord, God’s People and society has been recognized many times by Church and secular entities.

We are particularly pleased that this son of Chicago has been named a Laureate of the Order of Lincoln and join Governor Pritzker in congratulating him.