“Westchester Bible Church has faithfully taught the Word of God for over 40 years.” I wonder what those first years were like. The Westchester Bible Church started in a humble way. It began in the southwest side of Chicago at Lawndale Bible Church. Pastor Gray sought a place in the western suburbs. He and his family arrived in Westchester in the spring of 1956 to start a new church.
On April 15 1956 thirteen people met. This first service was in the parsonage basement on Canterbury Street. For two years the church held Sunday morning services at High Ridge School. The church grew steadily.
On August 3 1958 the original church building was dedicated. It stood on the corner of Sunnyside and Cermak. By June 1969 an educational wing was added. This provided offices and rooms for infants and toddlers.
The West Suburban Bible Church joined Westchester in January 1972. This merger increased the congregation considerably. Two morning services became necessary to accommodate everyone.
A new auditorium was constructed after much prayer and planning. The parsonage was moved to the corner of Dorchester and Sunnyside. Services were held in the Fellowship Hall for a year. This hall was beneath the auditorium. The first service in the new auditorium was on February 1 1976. What a momentous day that must have been for Westchester Bible Church.
Since 1976 six young men have been assistants to the pastor. More than 40 full-time Christian workers have come from the congregation. Westchester Bible Church stands as a testament to faith and community.
Today Westchester Bible Church continues its mission. Sunday services start with a cafe at 9:00 am. Sunday School follows at 9:30 am. Sunday morning worship begins at 10:45 am. Sunday evening worship is at 6:00 pm. Wednesday night features Bible study and prayer at 7:00 pm.
Westchester Bible Church has evolved over the years. It grew from a small gathering in a basement to a vibrant community. Its dedication to teaching the Word of God has remained constant. The church continues to be a beacon of faith in Westchester.