Tuning in to the unseen world in Logan Square we stand before the Church of the Spirit. It is Chicago’s oldest Spiritualist church. The Church of the Spirit has been a beacon for those seeking connection beyond the physical realm since 1897.
Founded as Bund Der Varheit No. 18 by Rev. Frank Joseph the church first served a German-speaking community. Band of Truth No. 18 reflects its original mission to spread spiritualist teachings. In 1915, the congregation found its permanent home purchasing this building from the Evangelical Free Church. It was then renamed Chapel of the Spirit. The name evolved to Church of The Spirit in 1944. It reflects its growing identity.
Look closely at the modest brick building. A tall stained-glass window catches the eye. It depicts Jesus Christ holding a lamb a relic from its Evangelical past. Yet, this image finds resonance within the Spiritualist faith. Some believe Jesus was a Spiritualist Medium himself.
Step inside the Church of the Spirit. You will notice the hymnals containing classic Christmas songs. Congregants still recite the Lord’s Prayer during services. These Christian elements coexist with Spiritualist beliefs. They show the diverse paths that lead people here.
Spiritualism is a unique blend of science philosophy and religion. It centers on the concept of continuous life. Death is seen as a transition not an end. Mediums can communicate with spirits. They bridge the gap between our world and the spirit world.
Many members of the Church of the Spirit arrived after experiences that defied explanation. Intuition and gut feelings are seen as signs of clairvoyance. People seek answers and understanding within this community. As assistant pastor Cher Dyle says people recognize something within themselves. They want to know more and this church embraces that.
The Church of the Spirit embraces non-rational sources of knowledge. Dr. Kenneth James an assistant pastor compares mediumship to dream interpretation. Both require patience and introspection to understand the message. In our fast-paced world reflection becomes a vital practice.
The church emphasizes personal responsibility and the Golden Rule. The church declares do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Members strive to align their lives with spiritual laws. They believe that the doorway to reformation remains open to all souls.
The advent of Modern Spiritualism began in 1848. The Fox sisters in New York developed a code to communicate with a spirit. The Church of the Spirit honors these pioneers. A framed drawing of the Fox Sisters’ home hangs in the chapel.
Notice the sunflower emblem of Spiritualism. It symbolizes turning toward the light of truth. All are welcome here to experience modern Spiritualism. It is where much of the spiritual enlightenment movement in the West began.
The Church of the Spirit stands as a testament to enduring faith. It is a haven for those seeking connection meaning and a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries. It is a place where the seen and unseen intertwine. It offers solace insight and a sense of belonging.