Unity Church of God in Christ

Stepping back in time, imagine Chicago in 1869. A new church, Unity Church, rises at the southeast corner of Dearborn Street and Walton Place. Its story begins, not in triumph, but in tragedy. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 ravaged the young city, leaving Unity Church in ruins. Only its walls and towers remained. Yet, from the ashes, hope emerged. A small group gathered amidst the debris. Their pastor offered words of comfort. They pledged to rebuild Unity Church of God in Christ. Services continued in a temporary wooden structure provided by the neighboring New England Church. By the winter of 1872-1873, the lecture room was usable. Finally, on December 7, 1873, Unity Church of God in Christ was rededicated. The auditorium opened its doors once more. The cost of rebuilding reached nearly $92,000, a testament to their unwavering faith. Unity Church of God in Christ flourished under the leadership of Reverend Robert Collyer. He preached there for six years. Then, in 1879, he moved to New York. The church struggled after his departure. The congregation dwindled. In 1903, facing financial difficulties, the church was sold to the Medinah Temple Mystic Shrine for $65,000. The building was repurposed as a lodge hall. The auditorium was enlarged, pews replaced by chairs, and the organ moved. Even in its new role, the legacy of Unity Church of God in Christ lived on. This building, twice resurrected, served as a symbol of resilience and community. It stands as a reminder that even in the face of devastation, faith can rebuild and renew.