CHICAGO (July 6, 2004) - A new publication that chronicles Chicago's Catholic heritage is now available to those who visit Chicago and to residents. "A Guide to Catholic Chicago" is the newest publication of New World Publications, the publishing arm of the Archdiocese of Chicago, and is being distributed to visitors' bureaus, airports and places of lodging in metropolitan Chicago.

According to Tom Sheridan, editor and general manager of New World Publications, the guide will also be available in many parishes and locations mentioned in the guide. Positive feedback has already been received, according to Sheridan, from concierges at hotels where the guide has been distributed.

The 2004 edition emphasizes the rich Catholic traditions in architecture, shrines, places of learning and inspiration, and ethnic heritage that have contributed to Chicago's greatness. "Visitors and residents alike look for connections to their faith," says Sheridan, "and they'll find them in "A Guide to Catholic Chicago," whether it's the tombstones on graves of the Irish at the Illinois & Michigan Canal corridor or tombs of Chicago's cardinals, or the archdiocese's newest basilica, St. Hyacinth, in the Polish community."

"Catholics weave together the fabric of Chicago's character," notes Chicago historian, Ellen Skerrett in an interview in the guide. Skerrett lectures and writes extensively on the architectural heritage of Chicago churches and their surrounding communities,

"A Guide to Catholic Chicago" will be published annually, and while this first edition concentrates on old history, future editions will highlight some of the more contemporary additions to Catholic life in Chicago. In addition to the places mentioned, the guides are available from New World Publications by calling 312-655-7777.