“Truly we have a proud past filled with fond memories.  As we look to the future, may God grant us wisdom; give us vision, and an eagerness to make this a second ‘Century for Christ and His Church.’

 

A brief history…

 

• Christian Church of Girard was founded July 15, 1860 with 13 members.
• In 1882 the congregation of the Christian Church of Girard helped to develop a sister church in Virden, four miles to the north.
• The first parsonage was built in 1892.
• A new church was built for the congregation in 1900 with the mortgage note being burned in 1910.
• The church was incorporated and known forevermore as First Christian Church of Girard, Illinois on December 16, 1956.
• Church constitution and by-laws were written and adopted in 1959.
• The church’s centennial celebration was held July 13 – 17, 1960.
• In August 1964, the church purchased the land north of the church.
• A new parsonage was built on that land in 1968 – 1969.
• Christmas, 1974 was the first year the church placed a Chrismon Tree in the church and celebrated the first “Hanging of the Greens” service; both traditions continue to this day.
• In 1980 a “Goals Committee” was established to evaluate the building needs.
• In February 1983, the church purchased the west grade school and property.
• In November of 1983, the current constitution and by-laws were amended to combine the positions of Deaconess and Deacon, and to allow women to become Elders.
• The community food and clothing pantry opened in 1984.
• In 1989, the current fellowship hall, education wing, narthex and administrative offices were dedicated.
• In 1993 under the leadership of Interim Pastor Dick Whitworth, Children’s Church began.
• The current sanctuary was completed and dedicated on October 10, 1999, with plans for expansion.
• In 2002, the constitution and by-laws were again updated to include some changes to the membership requirements; stating that those who may not yet have been baptized were also welcome to become members.
• In 2008, a Contemporary worship service was added to compliment the existing Traditional service.
• Currently, First Christian Church of Girard has a total membership of 489, with 275 active participants.