The Congregational Church of Batavia is celebrating its 175th year. On Aug. 8, 1835, fourteen people from five families gathered in the cabin of Thompson Paxton. From that meeting, the Church of the Big and Little Woods was formed. This is one of the first churches in Kane County. It continues to grow. In 1840, at a meeting in the home of Sylvanus Town, the congregation decided to build a church building in the growing village of Batavia. The name of the church was changed to the Presbyterian Church & Society of Batavia. In 1845 the church name was again changed to the Congregational Church & Society, acknowledging the anti-slavery position of its founders. In 1855 plans were made to use local limestone to build the New England style structure enjoyed today. The current building was first used in 1856. This year we are celebrating “175 years of love and service.” Just as early church leaders worked to bring the Christian message to the IL frontier, the Congregational Church of Batavia works to make that same message relevant on the frontier of our contemporary society. Special worship services are planned for Sun. Aug. 8 and Sun. Sept. 12; with a gathering at Fox Valley Country Club Sept. 12, at 4pm. For more details on these events, please contact the church at 630-879-1999.
9:00a.m.& 10:30a.m.
