Serving the Deaf Catholic Community
The International Catholic Deaf Association, Chapter 10, provides spiritual support, news, and membership for our vibrant community.
LATEST UPDATES: Online resources and membership outreach expanding this season.
Our Mission
The International Catholic Deaf Association (ICDA) Chapter 10, also known as Chicago Catholic Ephpheta (CCE), has a rich history of serving the Deaf Catholic community since its inception. Founded with the vision of spiritual inclusivity, we are dedicated to providing accessible news updates, expanding membership opportunities, and organizing meaningful events. Our commitment remains steadfast: to offer online resources that bridge faith and communication, ensuring every member of our community feels connected, supported, and spiritually fulfilled.
Upcoming Events Highlight
Join our vibrant community in spiritual outreach, ASL-led worship, and fellowship. Explore our scheduled gatherings and stay connected with the Chicago Catholic Ephpheta.
March 7, 2026
Lent Mission
with
Fr. David Cornett
at St. Francis Borgia Deaf church
8a-4p
June 7, 2026
CCE Chapter Meeting
Tri-monthly gathering for Chicago Catholic Ephpheta members to share updates and discuss spiritual and social plans.
July 26, 2026
CCE Picnic
Annual picnic hosted by CCE & St. Francis Borgia
Meet Our Chapter Leaders
Introducing the dedicated individuals who guide the organization and foster community connections.
Susan Elizabeth
Chapter President
Brian Van Thyne
Treasurer
Iris Martinez
Vice President
Tom Bleers
Board of Trustees
Terry Valenti
Secretary
Joe Delulio
Board of Trustees
Donna Mattini
Membership Secretary
Bob Swatek
Board of Trustees
Fr. Joe Mulroney
Chaplain
Brian Swatek
Past President
vacant
Ben Anderson
Web Designer & Seminarian
Parliamentarian
Our History
Chicago Catholic Ephpheta (CCE) is a 501(c)(3) organization serving Deaf and hard of hearing Catholics in the Chicagoland area. Our roots go back to 1896, when Deaf Catholics first began gathering in Chicago for worship, fellowship, and support in American Sign Language.
In 1952, our community formally became Chapter 10 of the International Catholic Deaf Association–United States Section (ICDA-US). Since then, CCE has continued to grow as a place where Deaf Catholics can fully participate in the life of the Church, share their gifts, and support one another in faith.
CCE is based at St. Francis Borgia Church in Chicago, Illinois. Through Masses in ASL, retreats, social events, educational programs, and outreach, we work to foster respect, faith values, and the Good News of the Gospel among Deaf individuals and families across the Chicagoland area. Our chapter strives to build a welcoming community where everyone can belong, be understood, and deepen their relationship with God.
Contact Our Chapter
ICDA Chapter 10 CCE is dedicated to expanding outreach and offering spiritual resources for the Deaf Catholic community.
Video Phone
For ASL communication: 312.736.2400
Email Outreach
SFBDeaf@gmail.com
Membership Support
Contact us to learn about membership benefits and local community events.
Support & Resource Inquiry
Membership Registration Form
Membership Dues (January 1 - December 31 annually)
Annual dues for individual ($5) or couple ($10) is for local chapter.
Annual dues for individual ($20) or coupled ($35) is for both local chapter and national membership of ICDA-US.
ICDA-US membership includes a subscription to the ‘Deaf Catholic’ magazine and discounted registration for events.
Please make checks payable to CCE. You may pay cash to Donna Mattini, CCE Membership Secretary or mail this form along with a check or money order to:
Donna Mattini c/o CCE
3425 Lous St.
Franklin Park, IL 60131