Lost in a poker game. Can you believe it? That’s how the story of Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church began. Right here in this very spot stands a testament to faith resilience and the unwavering spirit of Katherine Tessman. This isn’t just any church. It’s a story of redemption.
In 1924 Katherine Tessman a Dutch immigrant founded the church. It started as a Baptist mission in Bellwood Illinois. Her life was far from easy. Her first husband was an abusive alcoholic. He even gambled her away in a card game. The winner Albert Tessman proved to be a loving husband.
Together they found faith. They established a church in their home. It was named Bellwood Gospel Tabernacle. Katherine became a missionary. She named her church the Light of the World Rescue Mission. The church flourished. It provided weekly worship services evangelism and outreach.
Later the church affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church. This deepened their understanding of the Bible. It also connected them to a rich Dutch heritage. The church moved to Elmhurst in 1964. It became the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. It quickly became one of the largest congregations in the denomination.
The church grew. It expanded its ministries. It served children students adults and seniors. A lightning strike in 1990 caused severe damage. The congregation rebuilt. They continued to grow. In 2009 they built a new facility. It’s this stunning building you see before you today.
The Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a legacy of faith. It’s a story of hope. It’s a living example of how even from the darkest of beginnings a light can shine. A powerful light. A light that continues to shine brightly in Elmhurst and beyond.