Imagine a church born from a mission. Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church began in April 1942. A young minister, Dr. Frank J. Irvine, came from Colorado. The United Presbyterian Church sent him to start a mission in Dearborn.
Littlefield Presbyterian Church helped. For six years, Cherry Hill worshiped elsewhere. They used Lindbergh Elementary School. It stood across Telegraph Road from where the church is now.
In 1948, the chapel was finally completed. Sunday School classes grew quickly. Soon, classes filled every space. By 1950, they planned an Education Building. It would connect to the chapel. The addition was dedicated in May 1953.
The church grew again. By 1955, another building committee formed. They planned the Sanctuary. The colonial-style building was dedicated in June 1958. Months later, the Austin Pipe organ was installed. It became the Sanctuary’s crowning glory.
Dr. Irvine oversaw three major building projects. People pledged and paid $700,000 in under 15 years. Membership increased and more space was needed. Offices, music rooms, youth areas, and classrooms were required. In 1970, an addition was built at the rear of the Sanctuary. Existing buildings were also improved.
Countless young people attended Sunday School and youth activities. Cherry Hill’s ministry extended beyond Dearborn. Youth groups took yearly mission trips. The church sponsored championship athletic teams. There were fellowship and Bible study groups. Community programs thrived.
For years, Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church hosted the Dearborn Pastoral Counseling Center. They also provided space for C.H.U.P., a co-op nursery school. Scout Troup #1111 called the church home too. The church gifted the community “The Boar’s Head Festival.” This costumed musical program featured Christmas music. Around 300 people participated. Large audiences attended every other year.
Today, Cherry Hill Church builds on its history. The church operates the “Helping Hand Food Pantry.” It assists those needing food. The program continues to grow. Several community groups meet in the building. In 2016, the church started “Music at Cherry Hill.” This concert series presents national and international artists.
The church seeks new ways to move forward. They focus on ministry, mission, witness, and worship. Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church offers space for lease. Shared use is available for congregations and meetings. Office space is also an option. The location is convenient, just off Telegraph Rd.
Consider the large meeting room. It is 23 ft by 39 ft. It suits groups of 10-30 people. Classrooms are 22 ft by 24 ft. Multiple smaller spaces are available as offices or classrooms. Two kitchens feature oven hoods and stoves. Each stove has 10 burners. Food prep areas are included. Serving windows connect to the fellowship halls. Two fellowship halls attach to the kitchens. They are perfect for coffee hour. Ample parking is available on site.
In 2025, Charles Miller presented a pipe organ recital. The goal was to save the musical treasure. The 2,400-pipe Austin organ was built in 1958. After 66 years, the organ console needs replacement. The new console will have a computer system. It will have new keyboards. The organ will gain musical flexibility and reliability.
Cherry Hill Presbyterian Church has offered Christian Education studies. They have also been part of the Dearborn community since 1942 supporting neighbors.