What began as a small gathering has blossomed into the vibrant Unitarian Church of Evanston. This church stands as a testament to community, faith, and progressive ideals. Let’s delve into the story of this welcoming place.
In the late 19th century, Nellie Brough sought a Unitarian community for her children. She was the daughter of Unitarian ministers. Upon moving to the Chicago area, she wanted to recreate the Unitarian experience. She connected with other transplanted New England Unitarians. Together, they decided to start a church in Evanston.
They contacted J.R. Effinger. He was the Secretary of the Western Unitarian Conference. Effinger met with them in September 1891. He recommended Rev. Jenkin Lloyd Jones. Jones supported the establishment of groups in the Chicago area. Rev. Jones then suggested Rev. James Vila Blake of Third Church Chicago. These men preached at the Evanston gathering. In December, Rev. Blake agreed to minister to the small congregation on Sunday afternoons.
For a decade, the group met in various halls around Evanston. By 1898, they considered building their own church. The Board of Trustees hesitated due to the expense. However, the Woman’s Alliance staged fundraisers. They garnered $1500 for a Building Fund. In 1900, they presented this to the Board. The Board then decided they could bring it off. So they started a capital campaign.
Choosing a name proved difficult. Members debated declaring themselves Unitarians. The vote was split between “Evanston Unitarian Church” and “Church of All Souls.” The group practically called themselves the “Church of All Souls.” Two issues forced their hand. Julia Hintermeister took over Sunday School in 1899. She found it hard to recruit families to a nameless institution. Also, the Board needed a name to incorporate and own land. So in 1901, “Church of All Souls” became the official name. The church incorporated in 1902.
Marion Mahony Griffin designed a lamp for the Church of All Souls. Griffin spent her career working with Frank Lloyd Wright. The congregation embraced poetry and theater. Mahony Griffin reflected this in her design. The church featured stained glass in skylights, windows, and light fixtures. Though small, it prefigured her later work.
Today, the Unitarian Church of Evanston is a Welcoming Church. It is a Peace Advocate and a Green Sanctuary. The church nurtures the human spirit for a better world. It offers in-person and virtual Sunday services. The Unitarian Church of Evanston fosters spiritual growth and community well-being. The Unitarian Church of Evanston invites all to explore its support services. It enhances personal and collective well-being. It provides lovely spaces for weddings, memorials, and meetings. The Unitarian Church of Evanston offers a supportive environment for all backgrounds. This is a community cultivating minds and sustaining spirits. The Unitarian Church of Evanston works towards a more just and peaceful world.
As you leave, remember the journey of the Unitarian Church of Evanston. From a small gathering to a beacon of community. May its message of love resonate within you.