What began as a humble meeting in Room 53 of the Arcade Building has blossomed into the Elim Evangelical Free Church. In 1885 some Lutherans gathered. They wanted to organize the Svenska Evangelisk Lutherska Elims Fömlingen.
The church was officially incorporated on March 17 1886. Just a year later George M Pullman gifted the congregation two lots. These lots were at the corner of 113th and Calumet Avenue in Palmer Park.
The cornerstone was laid in June 1888. The first service was held in December 1888.
Let’s delve deeper into the early leadership of Elim Evangelical Free Church. Rev Gustaf A Ekeberg served from February 1 1886 to April 1 1891. Rev Ernst Adrian Zetterstrand followed. He served from October 14 1891 to September 24 1893. Rev Henry O Lindeblad then took the reins. His tenure lasted from September 27 1893 to January 29 1898. Rev Gustave Forsberg served from 1899 until his death on May 31 1900. Rev Victor J Tengwald concluded this initial period. He served from November 4 1900 to April 2 1910.
Marriage records offer a glimpse into the lives of early Elim Evangelical Free Church members. On April 10 1886 Carl Gustaf Bergein married Miss Christine Carlson. On May 5 1886 Charles H Johnson 27 married Miss Ida C Nelson 19. Both resided in Pullman Illinois.
Many other marriages followed within the close-knit community. These unions solidified the foundation of Elim Evangelical Free Church. They also wove a tapestry of shared faith and life experiences.
The Evangelical Lutheran Elim Church of Chicago holds a special place in history. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It started with a small group and a big dream. It became a cornerstone of Chicago’s spiritual landscape.
Janice Helge wrote an article with more information. It shares even more history of The Evangelical Lutheran Elim Church of Chicago.
The Kyrko-Bok for Svenska Evangelisk Lutherska Elimsforsamlingen is a valuable resource. It is the First Church Register 1885 to 1900. It holds a Memorandum of Pastors.
As you stand before Elim Evangelical Free Church consider its rich history. Think about the dedication of its founders. Reflect on the countless lives touched by its ministry. It is more than just a building. It is a living testament to faith, community, and the enduring power of the human spirit.