Before you stands the Philadelphia Swedish Pentecostal Church a Chicago landmark. Its story isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a tale woven from immigration faith and resilience. The church building itself a beautiful Classical Revival structure was once the Capital Savings Bank. This bank served Chicago’s Swedish community particularly those in Andersonville. Interestingly the bank’s architect Axel V Teisen was a Danish immigrant. He designed many other Chicago buildings including many bungalows.
But this building’s story took a turn. After the Great Depression the bank closed. The Philadelphia Swedish Pentecostal Church purchased the property in 1939. They dedicated the church in 1940. That’s when the iconic “Jesus Saves” sign went up. It remains a cherished symbol of faith in the city.
The church’s roots reach back even further. Reverend Arvid Ohrnell a missionary from Sweden arrived in Chicago in 1925. He began holding services at 3315 N Clark Street. He was joined by Victor Norlin Erick Peterson and Efraim Fraim. Music was key. Ohrnell played the accordion and Mary Nelson the piano.
On March 7 1926 the congregation officially named itself Filadelfiaförsamlingen. Thirty-two men joined that day. Services were initially held in Swedish at locations like Trumbull School and even Carl Carlson’s home. In 1927 the church incorporated in Illinois. They adopted the English name Philadelphia Swedish Pentecostal Church. Philadelphia meaning “brotherly love” perfectly reflects the church’s mission. The church’s mission is to bring people to Jesus Christ to train and encourage them in their faith and to equip them for ministry.
Over the decades the church expanded its reach. They held tent meetings. They started a Bible school and published a newsletter. They partnered with the Salem Church of Evanston. Joseph Mattsson arrived from Gothenburg Sweden in 1933. He served as pastor for 18 years. During World War II the church supported the war effort and missionary work. Missions extended to Mexico Japan Brazil and Africa.
By 1956 services shifted entirely to English. Attendance ranged from 450 to 600 people. The church continued to grow under various pastors. Its legacy is one of faith community and service. Today the Philadelphia Swedish Pentecostal Church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its founders and the generations who have worshipped within its walls. The “Jesus Saves” sign remains a powerful symbol. It continues to serve as a reminder of the church’s devotion and its unique place in Chicago’s history.