History :

St. Mary's parish serves Catholics from Polo, Milledgeville, Forreston, Brookville, Mt. Morris and surrounding unincorporated areas. In 2000, the parish had 176 registered households. The parish provides many programs for parishioners throughout the year. A youth group for children in St. Mary's parish was formed in late 1999. Various activities are planned for children in the parish. Religious education is provided for children in kindergarten through 12th grade throughout the school year. Some children from the parish attend Newman Central Catholic High School in Sterling, Illinois. St. Mary's Altar and Rosary Society is very active. The major fund raising activity is a luncheon and bazaar held in October each year. The proceeds from this event are sufficient to fund the organization for the entire year. The Altar and Rosary Society also helps with Second Hand Rose, the used clothing store in Polo, and the Pantry.