Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square

In 1904, a small group envisioned a spiritual haven in Logan Square. They laid the cornerstone for Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square. The original chapel, facing Kimball Avenue, quickly proved too small for the burgeoning congregation. Just six years later, a new, larger structure was built, much of which still stands today. Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square has witnessed over a century of Logan Square’s history. The current building, erected in 1910, reflects a simpler architectural style compared to the more ornate Gothic designs of the era. Its buff-colored brick and limestone striping create a unique aesthetic. Subtle carved stone medallions add a touch of elegance. In 1925, a Sunday School Annex was added. This addition, built with matching buff-colored brick, features arches influenced by both Gothic and Moorish styles. Inside, the sanctuary’s sloping floor, a design element borrowed from theater architecture, enhances the acoustics. A modernized altar stands as a testament to the church’s evolution over time. The church faced challenges in the mid-20th century as neighborhood demographics shifted. Membership declined. Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square merged with another local Methodist congregation in 1968. More recently, the church has faced costly repairs. An anonymous donor, working through Logan Square Preservation, contributed $100,000 for crucial masonry work. However, over $1 million is still needed to fully restore the building and address accessibility issues. The church has been exploring partnerships with community organizations to help fundraise and share the space. Grace United Methodist Church of Logan Square continues to be a vital part of the community. It serves as a venue for community events, basketball games, and yoga classes. There are ongoing discussions with the Chicago Park District to potentially use part of the church as a community center for nearby Unity Park.