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The first Presbyterian Church of Itasca is an active community of about 180 members that gather to celebrate Christ and serve local and non local communities through mission and fellowship activities.
The church is a member of:
Brief History of the Congregation
Few churches get their start in a rail car, but that is exactly where our congregation began.
In 1884 Edwin Orlando Nichols, a man of earnest faith decided churchless Itasca needed a Sunday school. Knowing the Itasca Accommodation train stood unused every weekend, Mr. Nichols organized a Sunday school in the train car. In 1885, 26 Christian workers petitioned the Chicago Presbytery to turn the railcar Sunday school into a church. On October 25, 1885 Reverend E.R. Davis preached the initial sermon just south of the church’s present location at 207 East Center Street. By the time the first resident pastor was installed in February 1921, the church membership was up to 60.
In 1950 the last service was held in the old church building and ground was broken for the current structure. The congregation had grown to 265. In May 1952 the new house of worship was dedicated. Ten years later, the education wing was dedicated. The vision of Mr. Nichols, 75 years earlier, had come a long way from those initial meetings in a rail car.
Today, some members still remember the building of the church in the 1950’s; others in our congregation were not even a twinkle in their parent’s eyes so long ago. We are diverse in many ways, including in our thoughts and opinions. We are still a small congregation and our church continues in its history of ministry to its members, its community and the world.
Fellowship
One of the most active councils at First Presbyterian is the Church Life Council. Church Life is responsible for social and fellowship events. In 2006, the council organized 17 events for some for adults, some for children and some for the whole family. These events included brunches, dinners (yes, Presbyterians like to eat), trips to Ravinia and the theatre, Easter egg hunts, the annual Trunk or Treat Halloween event. 2007 is planning to be an equally active and fun year.
In addition to social events, there are bible study groups, a quilting group and a group just for men.
Adult Dialogue
Adult dialogue is a Sunday morning Christian education and spiritual exploration for curious and growing adults. All (the uncertain, the believer, the seeker and those eager to strengthen their faith) are invited to join the conversation.
Through book reviews, Bible study, open dialogue about current events and invited speakers, we’ll learn and grow together. Come and be open to the new thing God is creating in you!
Men’s Weekly "6:48" Group
Each Thursday morning at 6:48 AM a group of five to eight men, meet, greet, eat, relate, pray and discuss a bible topic at the McDonalds restaurant on the corner of Irving Park Road and Prospect in Itasca. The group’s goal is to incorporate topics discussed into each individual’s faith journey. We are not a "holy huddle," simply men discussing issues of life and supporting one another.
You need not be a member of our church to attend our group. All men are welcome. Our discussions are open, but what said in the group stays in the group. Members respect the opinions, views, and ideas of each other, and all try to walk our talk with Christ. We are accountable to each other and feel that God"s word feeds our spirits.
If you are curious, give it a two time in a row and I am sure you too will get hooked.
Quilting For Missions Group
Our purpose is to make quilts for needy children. Most of our quilts have been sent to a mission in Mongolia, but many have also been donated and used in the Chicago area. We have an annual quilt sale and the proceeds are used to buy materials to make more quilts. Any excess monies are donated to a mission use of our choice.
We can always use more people. Sewing skills are wonderful but not necessary. We have a great time working together. If the thought that your work will keep a child warm touches your heart, please consider joining us. You needn’t be a church member to be a part of our group. For information, contact Louise (630) 773-1352
Women’s Bible Study
The Women"s Bible study group meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. We do not meet in the summer months. The group is lead by the pastor or one of the members of the group. In the past, our studies have included a study of the liturgical calendar and women in scripture.
Our group has about 16 members. We enjoy a time of study, prayer, and usually go out for lunch. We meet in the church lounge for coffee at 9:30 am and study begins at 10:00. All are welcome.
In addition to the above activities we have two choirs
- Cornerstone choir (Adult choir)
- Good News Ringers (Bell choir)
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