Historic Kankakee church remains vibrant by staying current

Much has changed in 150 years, and facing transition head on is a major reason why St. Paul Episcopal Church still exists.

Actually, the stately church, located on the corner of Harrison Avenue and Station Street in Kankakee since 1900, is not only surviving, it's thriving.

Community outreach is a top priority at St. Paul, and it's something the Rev. Israel Anchan, the church's rector, has emphasized since arriving in 2009.

He knows his approach is different than what members of the congregation and community at large have been accustomed to, but he is convinced it's the best way to achieve success.

"My strategy is quiet different than the traditional one,'' Anchan said. "The old Roman theory is 'come on, let's worship together.' That does not work.

"My strategy is the St. Patrick way. He went out into the community and made them familiar with the church.''

People who reside in the neighborhoods surrounding the inner-city church quickly were introduced to the St.

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