Here stands Lakeside Church of Chicago, a beacon of faith in Skokie, Illinois. While its current home on West Howard Street may seem unassuming, this church has a story that spans generations and crosses continents.
Lakeside Church of Chicago wasn’t always just a church, it was a lifeline for a community of Japanese immigrants in Chicago. Founded in 1943 by a small band of believers, it began as the “Japanese Christian Church at Moody.” It was a place where the community found solace and support, especially during a tumultuous time in their lives. Imagine a time when anti-Japanese sentiment was high: many faced internment camps and discrimination. This church offered a safe haven.
In 1949, the community purchased a building on Wellington and Sheffield and renamed it “The Lakeside Japanese Christian Church.” For decades, it served as a place where Japanese-American families could connect with their heritage. This church wasn’t simply a place of worship, it was a cultural center, a pillar of their community.
As time marched on, many members moved to the suburbs, and the church’s congregation began to diversify. To reflect this evolution, the name changed to “Lakeside Church of Chicago” in 2002, removing the word “Japanese,” and welcoming people from various backgrounds.
Today, Lakeside Church of Chicago is a vibrant congregation, rooted in its history and embracing the future. While its origins lie in the Japanese community, it’s a testament to how faith can bring together individuals from different walks of life, creating a diverse and welcoming community.