Here at the Chicago Temple, we find ourselves before a unique blend of faith and architecture. The Chicago Temple is more than just a church. It is a skyscraper. It stands tall as a testament to Chicago’s spirit of innovation.
The story of the Chicago Temple begins in 1831. Methodist circuit riders founded the First United Methodist Church. This makes it the oldest church in Chicago. Six years later Chicago was incorporated. Imagine those early days. The congregation first met in members’ homes. Then in 1834, they built a log cabin. It was located north of the Chicago River.
In 1838, they moved the cabin. They floated it across the river. They rolled it on logs to this very spot. The corner of Washington and Clark Streets has been the church’s home ever since. A brick church replaced the log cabin in 1845.
By 1924, the congregation dedicated the skyscraper we see today. At the time, it was the tallest building in Chicago. The Chicago Temple is a bold statement of faith. Some members wanted to move to the suburbs. Instead, church leaders chose to stay. They decided to build something grand.
They hired Holabird & Roche. These architects were instructed to design a Gothic structure. It needed a churchly tower. A radiant cross had to grace its pinnacle. The building should be a city temple. During construction, it was called City Temple. However, the name was changed to The Chicago Temple.
Inside, you will find three sanctuaries. The main sanctuary seats 500 people. A wood carving above the altar shows Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. Stained glass windows depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. One window even shows downtown Chicago and the Chicago Temple.
On the second floor is the Dixon Chapel. You will also find the James Parlor and the Heritage Room here. Church offices are on this floor too. Classrooms and a choir room occupy the third and fourth floors.
The Sky Chapel is a highlight of the Chicago Temple. It sits 400 feet above the city. The Walgreen family donated it in 1952. It honors Charles Walgreen. The chapel’s altar shows Jesus weeping over Chicago. Sixteen stained glass windows tell stories. They depict the Old Testament. Others show the life of Jesus. Still others represent the history of the Christian Church.
Floors five through 21 are office spaces. Lawyers like the proximity to city and county buildings. The sixth floor once held the office of Clarence Darrow. He was a famous trial attorney.
The Chicago Temple stands as a symbol. It represents faith, resilience, and architectural daring. It is a place where worship meets the sky. The Chicago Temple continues to play a vital role in Chicago. It welcomes all. Its diverse membership reflects the city’s cosmopolitan spirit. As you leave, remember the bold vision that created this unique space. The Chicago Temple invites you to make no small plans.