About Us
Our History
| Our History Our Principles Our Policies Our Staff Contact Information |
The First Congregational Church of Evanston was founded in 1869 by settlers from New England, where Congregationalism is rooted. Our beliefs are inspired by the Pilgrims, who pledged themselves to live and worship in freedom according to the dictates of conscience. This heritage is evident today in modern Congregationalism, which is based on convictions, not creeds.
The first Congregationalists in Evanston built a church in 1870 on our current plot of land - when Hinman Avenue was a dirt road. That Gothic structure burned to the ground in 1884. A second church building in the Romanesque style was dedicated on the same site in 1886. Over time, it became dilapidated and our church forebearers hired the architectural firm of Tallmadge and Watson to draft plans for a new building. The structure was razed and our current sanctuary - an outstanding example of Colonial Revival architecture - was dedicated in 1927. The Church House, which is located down the street at 1417 Hinman Avenue, was also designed by Tallmadge and Watson and was dedicated at the same time.
Our Principles
As a Congregational Christian church, we value faith, freedom and fellowship. We do not require a formal statement of belief as a condition of membership. Sincere Christian conviction and an honest desire to be together as followers of Jesus Christ are what unite us. We are open and affirming to people of all ages and abilities, races, sexual orientations and national origins.
The First Congregational Church of Evanston belongs to the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches (NACCC) and is currently engaged in "covenanted exploration" with the United Church of Christ (UCC) as the congregation prayerfully considers affiliation with that denomination.
Learn more about us by viewing this brief video.
Our Policies
As a Congregational church, we are autonomous and self-governing, free from external control. Our ministers are the primary spiritual leaders of the church. True to our Congregational roots, however, all members take on responsibilities. All have the privilege and duty of exercising the special talents with which God has endowed them. Our church boards and committees, which are composed of church members, include:
- The Ministry Council - The senior governing body of the church consisting of representatives from each Ministry Team or committee and members elected at large from the membership. The Moderator of the congregation presides over the Ministry Council.
- Board for Worship, Music, and the Arts – Focuses on worship, the observation of the sacraments and music ministries of the church.
- Board of Deacons – Oversees the spiritual affairs of the church and pastoral care, including visiting homebound or hospitalized members. Deacons also assist in extending the invitation of the Church to the community, particularly to newcomers and prospective members.
- Board of Christian Education – Provides education and opportunities for spiritual growth to children, youth and adults.
- Board of Trustees – Manages the maintenance of physical resources and oversees the budget and financial resources that make church programs possible.
- Board of Mission – Focuses on issues of people and communities beyond the walls of the church by providing education and action on topics or social concern.
- Pastor's Advisory Committee – Provides a sounding board and support for the senior minister.
- Communication Committee – Facilitates communication in the church and the community through the church newsletter, website, local media, etc.
Our Staff
The office of the First Congregational Church of Evanston is located in the Church House at 1417 Hinman Avenue. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
On-Call Minister for Pastoral Care
Rev. Nan Conser
Director of Music
David Lornson
Office Manager
Melia Pappas
Council Moderator
Laima Day
Contact Information
Sanctuary:
The Sanctuary is located at the Corner of Hinman Ave. and Lake Street
1445 Hinman Ave.
Evanston, IL
Mailing Address:
First Congregational Church of Evanston
1417 Hinman Avenue
Evanston, Illinois 60201
Voice: (847) 864-8332
Fax: (847) 864-2143
Email: Office@FirstChurchEvanston.org
Last Updated: June 6, 2010