Have you heard the story of a church founded by German missionaries? This is the story of Christ United Church in Chicago. It stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community and a legacy spanning over a century.
Christ United Church began in 1892. German missionaries were sent to America. They organized the Evangelical Synod. This group later merged with the Reformed Church in 1940. In 1957, the Evangelical and Reformed Church united. It joined with the church of its original benefactors. This formed the United Church of Christ.
Christ United Church was first known as Deutsche Evangelische Christus Gemeinde von Des Plaines. It means The Christ German Evangelical Church of Des Plaines. The church was founded in Carl Wicke’s home. It was at the corner of Miner and Pearson Streets. Three pastors from the Home Mission Board attended. Twenty men who were the Founders and Charter Members were also there.
These founding members included Carl Aherns and Carl Eicksmann. Christian Geils and Henry Gielow were present too. Felix Jarchow and Henry Kassier joined them. Fred Kaufmann and Frank Koch also participated. These names echo through the church’s history.
Initially, gatherings took place at Parson’s Hall. It was at the intersection of Ellinwood and Lee. The monthly rent was a mere six dollars. The Brock Land Co. then donated land. It was at the corner of Cora and Henry Streets. William Hammer won the contract. He built the frame church for $3600.
Construction began with a cornerstone laying on October 2, 1892. Five ministers participated. A brass band and five choirs from Chicago churches joined. Special trains accommodated the attendees. Reverend E. Bloesch became the first Pastor. The Home Mission Board paid half his salary.
The church bell was a gift from the Ladies Aid. It was cast in 1892 by the McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore. The bell fell silent only during the construction of the present Church. It rings for life’s critical moments.
A pipe organ was donated in 1893. St. John’s Evangelical Church of Addison Township gave it. The Ladies Aid was organized that year too. It later became the Women’s Guild. They aimed to finance the small Church.
Christmas programs were held on Christmas Eve. They attracted large crowds. Children received an apple and an orange. These gifts were delicacies for most. A fir tree stood by the altar. It was decorated with real lighted candles. Elders sat with wet clothes on poles for safety.
In 1894, Christ United Church established its first choir. Henry Weber was the organist and choirmaster. He served for 32 years. The church experienced growth. A parsonage was built next to the church in 1900. It cost $1600.
Sunday school has been a part of the church since its beginning. Mr. Fred Ahbe served as Superintendent from 1900 until 1930. Rev. Charles Heller was the first young man from the Church to enter the ministry. In 1911, the church held an occasional Sunday evening service in English.
Rev. Dr. George W. Goebel became Pastor in 1919. He served Christ United Church for 25 years. In 1921, women gained the right to vote within the Church. A new pipe organ was dedicated in 1924.
Christ United Church continues to press onward. As its eyes look upward to the cross atop its steeple, it praises its Heavenly Father. This is a rich heritage. The church preserves its legacy through faith and community.