The history of the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church is closely intertwined with the story of a determined group of Irish Catholic families who sought to establish a new parish in the late 19th century. Despite being surrounded by farmland and facing a bleak economic landscape, these resilient individuals refused to be deterred by the challenging circumstances of their time. The founders of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church understood the significance of creating a community space where they could practice their faith and forge meaningful connections.
In the year of 1894, the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church was established to serve the English-speaking Catholics residing on the North Side of Chicago. With a vision for a thriving congregation, a small wooden church was built, its simple structure standing as a testament to the community’s unwavering faith. However, as the number of parishioners grew, the need for a larger and more permanent structure became apparent.
In 1913, the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church was rebuilt in a Romanesque style, its grandeur symbolizing the community’s growth and prosperity. The decision to rebuild the church reflected their unwavering commitment to their faith. The original wooden structure was torn down, and construction commenced on a new, more substantial building. This new structure, a testament to the community’s dedication, was completed in June of 1913. Throughout the 1920s, the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church continued to flourish, under the leadership of Father David L. McDonald, who served as pastor from 1924 until his death in 1930.
During Father McDonald’s tenure, the church underwent extensive renovations and decorations. The sanctuary ceiling was adorned with an ornamental frieze and a majestic “Holy Ghost” emblem, while the walls were graced with a striking painting depicting “The Ascension,” a breathtaking masterpiece measuring thirty feet by twenty-four feet.
In 1931, the Very Rev. Msgr. William P. Griffin assumed the role of pastor. Realizing the need to accommodate the rapidly growing congregation, he commissioned the architect Joe W. McCarthy to expand the church. The expansion project, completed in 1932, brought about a new era for the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church. The original decorations were removed, and the interior underwent a significant redecoration. It remains open to this day, serving not only as a sacred place of worship but also as a gathering space for the community, carrying on the legacy of those who came before.