Established in 1894 Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It began in a hall above a saloon. This humble beginning contrasts sharply with the church’s current prominence. The original parishioners were mostly Irish immigrants. They displayed incredible determination. Their persistence led to the establishment of Saint Andrew. Archbishop Feehan even named the parish in honor of its first pastor Father Andrew Croke.
Saint Andrew’s first church was a simple wooden structure. It was built in 1896. The congregation grew quickly. A larger church was soon needed. A new Romanesque style brick church replaced the wooden one in 1913. The original wooden building wasn’t demolished. Instead it was moved across the street. This illustrates the resourcefulness of the community.
The church continued to expand. A new school opened in 1926. This school remains open to this day. By the Great Depression overcrowding was a serious problem. The church was extended by 60 feet. A new high altar was also installed. This addressed the needs of the 10000 parishioners.
In the 1930s the church underwent significant changes. The interior was redecorated. John Mallin created beautiful artwork. Sadly these decorations were later removed. Father David L McDonald hired Mallin. He served as pastor until his death in 1930. The church also gained a new gymnasium in 1951. It was used for the Catholic Youth Organization activities. The gymnasium even doubled as a roller rink. It could fit an astonishing 5000 people.
Even amidst challenges such as a gambling raid in the 1970s Saint Andrew persevered. The raid highlighted the financial difficulties faced by the church’s school. Despite setbacks Saint Andrew continued its mission of serving the community. It remained a vital center of faith in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. Today Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church continues to be a place of worship. It stands as a symbol of enduring faith. It’s a place where the spirit of its founding members lives on.