Remember the movie “Sparkle?” Whitney Houston sang “His Eyes Are On the Sparrow” at Iroquois Avenue Christ Lutheran Church. This church stands as a testament to faith. It embodies architectural beauty. It reflects a community’s enduring spirit.
Iroquois Avenue Christ Lutheran Church’s story began in 1911. Members of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church sought to establish a mission on Detroit’s east side. Indian Village was chosen as the ideal location. The church was first named Christ Lutheran. A temporary home was rented. Soon after, a parsonage was built. It stood at Iroquois and Waterloo, now Vernor Street.
Reverend John A. Dietzer became the first pastor. To avoid confusion with other churches, Iroquois Avenue was added to the name in 1913.
Ground was broken for the permanent church in February 1913. The congregation moved into the partially built basement. The first service was held there on October 19, 1913. The completed church was dedicated on November 13, 1913. Three services were held. Each had capacity attendance.
Louis Keil designed the church sanctuary. He was a church member. He also designed steamship interiors. Henry Malow, another member, built it. Keil captured the essence of a European church during his travels. The design blends Gothic elements. It also incorporates influences from the Arts & Crafts Movement. The original cost was $25,000.
The floor plan is in the form of a cross. This symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thirteen sets of stained glass windows adorn the church. They depict Bible stories and Christian themes. Members donated the windows. They create a constant visual reminder of Christ’s life.
The Easter window showcases the Arts & Crafts Movement. It uses a floral design of Easter lilies. The lily symbolizes purity and resurrection. Other windows are painted in Renaissance style. The chancel contains a Nativity window. Windows represent the Crucifixion and Resurrection. They also show Jesus calling Peter and Andrew. Others depict Peter’s failed attempt to walk on water and the Angel. God’s word and biblical scenes of Christ blessing children are present. Christ knocks. The Good Shepherd and Gethsemane also appear.
The church’s first organ was a three-manual Roosevelt. In 1952, it was replaced. The current four-manual organ was built by the Austin Company. It came from Detroit’s West Methodist Church.
The console includes four sets of manual keys. It features a 32-note pedal keyboard. The organ contains a double bourdon 32ft tone. It also has large-scale diapasons, flutes and reed pipes. Cathedral Chimes are tubular. They are made from bell metal. The organ contains 2,336 pipes.
In 1928, the parish house was added. It became a center for activities. It included an assembly hall and classrooms. There were offices and a gymnasium. The parish house continues to serve the community.
Iroquois Avenue Christ Lutheran Church stands tall. It has witnessed many changes. It has been a movie set. It has been a temporary home for schools. The congregation continues its mission. It embraces diversity. It offers hope for Detroit’s future. The church gathers people together. It shares life abundantly.