125th Anniversary | West Side Christian Church

1901

The year 1901 marked the beginning of what would become West Side Christian Church. The First Christian Church of Springfield had prospered greatly, and a number of its members believed the city would continue to grow toward the south and west. With that conviction, they began to consider the need for a new congregation in that part of Springfield.

On January 17, 1901, an auxiliary of the Christian Women’s Board of Missions was organized. At the election of officers, the new society took the name West Side Auxiliary of the C.W.B.M. The motto adopted for the work was, “Therefore be ye steadfast, unmovable always abounding in the work of the Lord, inasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” In this humble but faithful beginning, the organization of the West Side Church came into being.

On April 9, 1901, a lot was purchased at the southwest corner of State and Edwards Streets for $2,500. The following day, April 10, a building committee was appointed, and Sunday, April 14, was set aside as New Church Day. On that day, $11,000 was subscribed for the new building, giving strong evidence of the faith and sacrifice of those who believed God was leading in this new work.

Ground was broken for the new building on July 1, 1901. Cornerstone laying ceremonies were held on September 2, 1901. Though the building was not yet complete, the first meeting was held in the new church on October 6, 1901. The congregation was already moving forward in faith, trusting that the work God had begun would continue to grow.

On November 2, 1901, a meeting was held by the church board for the purpose of securing a minister. Brother J. Elwood Lynn was selected to serve as pastor, with his ministry to begin January 1, 1902.

On November 10, 1901, those present were given the opportunity to enroll as members of the new congregation. Ninety-eight people from First Christian Church accepted the opportunity, thereby organizing the congregation known as West Side Christian Church. Twelve persons from other Christian churches were also added, bringing the original membership to 110.

Although West Side began as a new congregation, it did not begin without roots. It was born from the faith, vision, and sacrifice of those who had already seen God work through the Christian Church in Springfield. They believed the southwest part of the city was a strategic place for gospel ministry, and they acted with courage and generosity.

The year closed with a new building underway, a minister called, and a congregation formed. What began with prayer, planning, and sacrifice at State and Edwards Streets would become the first chapter in a long history of kingdom ministry through West Side Christian Church.

1902

The year 1902 was the first full year of organized ministry for West Side Christian Church. On January 1, Brother J. E. Lynn began his work as minister, having been called during the closing months of the previous year.

On Sunday, January 5, 1902, the new church was dedicated with three appropriate services. It was a day of praise and thanksgiving for the members of the congregation, as the work begun in faith during 1901 was now formally set apart for the service of the Lord.

Original West Side Christian Church The dedication sermon was delivered by Rev. J. H. Gilliland of Bloomington, Illinois. At the conclusion of the message, a financial statement was presented, showing that the total cost of the building, furnishings, and lot had been approximately $15,000. Of this amount, $11,000 had already been pledged, leaving $4,000 to be raised. Before the close of the meeting, $3,000 was secured, giving strong evidence of the congregation’s willingness to sacrifice for the new work.

The first official board meeting was held Sunday, January 19, 1902. Edward Anderson was elected Bible School Superintendent, with Dr. G. A. Hulett serving as Assistant Superintendent. Edward Anderson also served as chairman of the official board.

At a special congregational meeting held February 23, 1902, it was resolved to accept from First Christian Church the title deed for the lot and church building known as West Side Christian Church. This action further established the congregation in its own work and responsibility.

The first year of ministry was marked by remarkable growth. At the annual meeting held January 16, 1903, reports showed 196 new members added to the church, bringing the total membership to 306. The Bible School enrollment was approximately 400, and the Endeavor Society had 40 members.

Thus, in its first full year, West Side moved from organization to active ministry. With a dedicated building, an established board, a growing Bible School, and many new members, the congregation gave early evidence that the vision for a new church on the west side of Springfield had been blessed by God.

1903

The year 1903 found West Side Christian Church continuing the strong beginning that had marked its first full year of ministry. As of January 16, reports showed 196 new members had been added to the church, bringing the total membership to 306. The Bible School enrollment was approximately 400, and the Endeavor Society numbered 40 members.

The growing strength of the congregation was seen not only in numbers, but also in its developing ministries. On Sunday, April 19, 1903, the Missionary Society had charge of the services, with William F. Cowden of Tacoma, Washington, delivering the special message. This reflected the missionary concern that had been present from the earliest days of the congregation’s organization.

During October, a new department was organized and became known as the Cradle Roll Department. This ministry gave attention to the youngest children connected with the congregation and showed West Side’s growing concern for the spiritual nurture of families from the earliest years of life.

Thus, 1903 was a year of continued increase and organization. The church was still young, but already its work was expanding through Bible School, missionary emphasis, young people’s work, adult teaching, and care for children. The foundation laid in the first two years was being strengthened, and the congregation continued to move forward in the work to which it had been called.

1904

The year 1904 was a year of transition in the young life of West Side Christian Church. Reports presented at the annual meeting held January 8 showed that 98 persons had been added to the church during the previous year. At the beginning of the year, Mr. C. E. Gard was appointed teacher of the Adult Bible Class.

Brother J. E. Lynn continued his ministry during the early months of the year. He had served as West Side’s first minister and had helped guide the congregation through its beginning days, dedication, organization, and early growth. At a called meeting of the board held April 24, Brother Lynn asked to be relieved of the pastorate, effective June 1, in order that he might accept the pastorate of the church at Warren, Ohio.

After several months without a settled minister, Brother F. M. Rogers came from Pittsfield, Illinois, to begin his pastorate at West Side on September 1, 1904. On Sunday, September 4, Brother Rogers preached his first sermon to the congregation.

The annual meeting was held Friday evening, December 30, 1904. Reports showed a net gain in membership of ten, bringing the total membership to 399.

Though the year included the departure of West Side’s first minister, the work continued steadily. The congregation had now passed from its founding pastorate into a new season of leadership. With nearly 400 members, a growing Bible School, and established classes and ministries, West Side entered the coming year with gratitude for its beginning and confidence in the continued work before it.

1905

Sunday, January 1, 1905, marked the first use of duplex envelopes at West Side Christian Church. This step helped give regular order to the giving of the congregation and reflected the continued organization of the church’s growing work.

An evangelistic meeting was held for twelve days beginning Sunday, January 22, 1905, resulting in 14 new members being added to the church.

During July, $600 and interest on the church debt was paid, leaving $900 still unpaid. The congregation continued to move steadily toward freedom from the debt incurred in establishing its building and ministry.

On August 6, 1905, during the regular board meeting, discussion was opened concerning the establishment of a church in the southeast part of the city. This conversation would later develop into Stuart Street Christian Church, showing that even in its earliest years West Side was already looking beyond itself toward the planting and strengthening of other congregations.

The year closed with the work continuing under the ministry of Brother F. M. Rogers. Though the congregation was still young, it was growing in stewardship, evangelism, and kingdom vision.

1906

At the annual meeting held January 12, reports showed that 124 new members had been added to the church. After losses by death and removal, the congregation had reached a total membership of 509.

On Sunday, February 12, pledges were taken to liquidate the remaining debt on the church. Two weeks later, on Sunday, February 26, the mortgage was burned at the morning service. This was a significant moment in the early life of the congregation, as the church was now free from the debt incurred in establishing its first building.

The Bible School continued to grow, and although the building had been completed only a few years earlier, the congregation was already beginning to outgrow its space. The need for additional room would soon become an important concern in the continued development of West Side’s ministry.

The year was marked by growth, generosity, and gratitude. With its debt retired and its membership increasing, West Side entered the next season of ministry with renewed strength and confidence.

1907

At the annual meeting held January 4, the pastor reported that 118 new members had been added to the church, bringing the total membership to 600.

The growth of the congregation continued throughout the year. In October, an evangelistic meeting was held with Brother George Taubman serving as evangelist. This meeting brought 75 new members into the church and was an encouragement to the congregation.

The year was one of continued increase under the ministry of Brother F. M. Rogers. With the congregation now numbering around 600 members and the Bible School continuing to grow, West Side was already experiencing the blessings and pressures that came with a thriving ministry. The church, still only a few years old, was becoming firmly established as a strong congregation in Springfield.

1908

At the annual meeting held January 3, reports showed that 111 new members had been added to the church during the previous year.

The work continued under the ministry of Brother F. M. Rogers during the early months of the year. His ministry had been marked by steady growth, the retirement of the church debt, continued development of the Bible School, and early discussion concerning the establishment of another church in the southeast part of the city.

At a called meeting of the Official Board held August 9, Brother Rogers tendered his resignation, asking that it become effective September 1. He resigned in order to accept a pastorate in Long Beach, California.

The close of Brother Rogers’ ministry marked another transition in the early life of West Side Christian Church. In only a few years, the congregation had grown from its beginning membership into a strong and established church. Though the year brought the departure of its minister, the work itself remained firmly rooted, and the congregation looked forward to the next chapter of service.

1909

On January 1, Brother John R. Golden came from Gibson City, Illinois, to begin his ministry at West Side Christian Church. He began with a congregation numbering 605 members.

An evangelistic meeting held in April brought 180 new members into the kingdom. This was a season of great encouragement to the congregation and gave evidence that the work at West Side was continuing to grow in strength and influence.

In May, an organization known as the Brotherhood of the West Side Christian Church was formed. Its purpose was to create closer fellowship and acquaintance among the men of the congregation.

On June 1, a new directory was printed containing the names of 720 members.

During October, the Building Committee proposed the need for enlarging the auditorium and erecting a new Bible School room. The committee was authorized to proceed with these improvements, as the growing congregation and Bible School required additional space.

At the end of the year, reports showed that 124 new members had been added to the congregation.

The year was marked by new leadership, strong evangelistic fruit, expanded fellowship among the men, and the beginning of plans to enlarge the church’s facilities. West Side had entered another season of growth and was again preparing to make room for the work God was bringing to its doors.

1910

In May, the new addition to the church building was completed. This improvement had been planned the previous year when the Building Committee proposed enlarging the auditorium and adding a new Bible School room. The completion of the work provided much-needed space for the growing congregation and its Bible School.

From September 12 through 16, the Annual State Convention was held at West Side. The Women’s Missionary Society, Men’s Brotherhood, and Bible School each sponsored special sessions, with addresses given in behalf of each organization. Hosting the convention was an honor for the young congregation and reflected the increasing strength and influence of West Side among the churches.

The work of the church continued under the ministry of Brother John R. Golden. With the new addition completed and the congregation participating in broader state-wide fellowship, West Side continued to grow not only in numbers, but also in service, organization, and usefulness to the larger work of the kingdom.

1911

At the annual meeting held January 11, reports showed 29 additions to the church. The Bible School and church membership continued to grow, and the work of the congregation remained strong under the ministry of Brother John R. Golden.

On January 12, the Women’s Christian Missionary Society celebrated its tenth anniversary. This organization had been closely connected with the earliest beginnings of the church, and its continued strength was a reminder of the missionary spirit that helped bring West Side into being.

The year was one of steady progress rather than unusual expansion. The congregation continued to build upon the foundation already laid through preaching, Bible School, missionary work, fellowship, and service. West Side was now ten years removed from its beginning, and the work continued with faithfulness and growing strength.

1912

At the annual meeting held January 3, reports showed 38 additions to the church. The work continued under the ministry of Brother John R. Golden, with the congregation maintaining the growth and strength that had marked the previous years.

Throughout the balance of the year, 52 more members were added to the church. These additions reflected the continued fruitfulness of the ministry and the steady influence of West Side in the lives of individuals and families.

The year was one of continued faithfulness and increase. While no major building project or transition marked the year, the congregation continued its work through worship, Bible School, missionary interest, and evangelism. West Side remained firmly established and continued to grow in both membership and ministry.

1913

The work of West Side Christian Church continued under the ministry of Brother John R. Golden during the first part of the year.

On July 2, Brother Golden presented his resignation to the Official Board, asking to be released from his ministry on August 15. His resignation brought to a close a pastorate that had included strong evangelistic growth, the organization of the Brotherhood, the printing of a new church directory, improvements to the church building, and continued growth in both church and Bible School membership.

Brother Golden’s ministry had helped strengthen West Side during an important period in its early life. Under his leadership, the congregation continued to grow in numbers, organization, fellowship, and influence. Though his departure marked another transition, the church was well established and prepared to continue the work before it.

The year closed with the congregation awaiting new leadership, yet confident that the Lord who had blessed the work from its beginning would continue to guide West Side in the years ahead.

1914

On February 8, Brother C. W. Ross began his ministry at West Side Christian Church. He would long be remembered by the members of the congregation for his ability to quote whole chapters of the Bible from memory.

During an evangelistic meeting held in November, 151 persons were added to the church, 92 of them by baptism. This meeting was a significant season of spiritual harvest and encouragement for the congregation.

Prior to this time, the church had never furnished a parsonage. On December 6, the indebtedness on the building was paid off, and $12,538 was pledged toward the purchase of a parsonage.

The year was one of renewed leadership, evangelistic fruit, and practical preparation for the future. With Brother Ross now serving as minister, the congregation continued to grow, and West Side took another step in providing for the long-term stability of its ministry.

1915

At the annual meeting held January 7, reports showed a membership of 742. The congregation continued its work under the ministry of Brother C. W. Ross, whose preaching and knowledge of Scripture were remembered with appreciation by the members of West Side.

During the year, the Loyal Berean Class was organized. This class became part of the growing Bible School work of the church and reflected the continued importance placed upon Bible teaching and fellowship.

The year was one of continued growth and organization. Following the strong evangelistic meeting of the previous year and the provision made toward a parsonage, West Side continued to strengthen its ministry and prepare for the work ahead.

1916

During the year, Brother C. W. Ross continued his ministry with West Side Christian Church. His leadership had already been marked by strong evangelistic results, continued growth, and a deep devotion to the Scriptures.

In June, Brother Ross was hospitalized for an appendectomy operation. Though this brought concern to the congregation, the work of the church continued, and the members remained faithful in their service and support.

The year was quieter in recorded events than some previous years, yet it remained part of a fruitful season in the life of the congregation. West Side continued to grow in strength, fellowship, and ministry as it carried forward the work begun in its earliest days.

1917

During the year, Brother C. W. Ross continued his ministry with West Side Christian Church. The work of the congregation continued to grow, and attention was again given to extending the influence of the church beyond its own building.

On July 10, a Bible School was started at West Grand Place, meeting in the school house on Sunday afternoons. Mrs. H. E. Brothers served as Superintendent. This work reflected West Side’s continuing desire to reach people in growing areas of the city and to provide Bible teaching where it was needed.

The new Bible School at West Grand Place made encouraging progress.

The year was marked by continued ministry and outreach. As in earlier years, West Side’s work was not limited to its own congregation, but extended into the community through teaching, organization, and a desire to see the gospel carried into new places.

1918

At the annual meeting held January 9, the West Grand Place Bible School reported an enrollment of 81, with Mrs. H. E. Brothers serving as Superintendent. This work, begun the previous year, showed West Side’s continued interest in extending Bible teaching beyond its own building.

At this same meeting, it was decided that the officers of the church should be elected for one year only, instead of for three years as had been the custom.

On March 24, Brother C. W. Ross tendered his resignation at a called meeting, asking that he might be released in order to accept a call to Kansas City, Missouri. He concluded his ministry at West Side on May 18. During his years of service, 455 persons had been added to the church, and the congregation now numbered 895.

On September 15, Brother and Sister R. G. Heicke came from Kansas City, Kansas, where he had been serving the Grand View Church. His ministry began during a difficult season, as the terrible flu epidemic had struck the city, making it necessary to cancel most of the meetings of the church during October and November.

This was also the time of World War I, and 62 members from West Side were serving their country in the armed forces.

The year was one of change, trial, and faithfulness. West Side said farewell to Brother Ross after a fruitful ministry, welcomed Brother Heicke to begin a new pastorate, and faced the hardships of sickness and war. Yet the congregation continued to stand firm in the work of the Lord.

1919

During the year, Brother R. G. Heicke continued his ministry with West Side Christian Church, having begun his work the previous September during the difficult days of the flu epidemic and World War I.

On March 23, Dean Guy W. Sarvis of Nanking University, Nanking, China, one of West Side’s missionaries, spoke to the congregation on “The Religious Conditions of China.” His visit reflected the continuing missionary concern of the church and helped keep before the congregation the needs of the wider world.

Later in the year, in November, a Boy Scout troop was organized. This new work provided another avenue of training and influence for the boys connected with the church.

Another practical improvement during the year was the installation of a motor to pump the organ. This relieved the young boys of the church from a task that had required considerable effort and had been a matter of concern to the board members.

The year was marked by renewed activity following the difficulties of the previous fall. Through missionary emphasis, work with boys, and practical improvements to the church’s worship life, West Side continued to carry forward its ministry with faithfulness.

1920

From March 10 to April 4, a special evangelistic meeting was held with Brother Harry G. Knowles serving as evangelist. The meeting was a great encouragement to the congregation and resulted in 56 persons being added to the membership of the church.

On March 19, the first Father and Son Banquet was held at the church. This gathering marked a new point of fellowship among the men and boys of the congregation and reflected the church’s continuing interest in strengthening family and congregational life.

The work continued under the ministry of Brother R. G. Heicke until the fall. At the regular meeting of the Board held October 3, Brother Heicke presented his resignation, asking to be released November 1 in order that he might accept a call as District Superintendent of the Northwest District of Illinois.

The year brought both fruitful ministry and another pastoral transition. Through evangelistic effort, fellowship, and continued service, West Side remained active in the work of the Lord as it prepared for the next season of leadership.

1921

On January 2, Brother Gilbert Jones came from Stuttgart, Arkansas, to begin his pastorate at West Side Christian Church. His coming marked the beginning of a new season of leadership following the resignation of Brother R. G. Heicke.

In March, a strong Senior Christian Endeavor Society was organized. Later in the year, in November, an Intermediate Christian Endeavor Society was also organized. These societies provided important opportunities for young people to grow in faith, fellowship, and service.

During this time, much attention was given to the observance of the twentieth anniversary of the church. Mrs. C. E. Withey read a paper entitled “Retrospection and Prospective,” which reviewed the history of the church and what had been accomplished during its first twenty years. A large number of charter members were present for the occasion.

The anniversary celebration was climaxed with a special address by Brother John Golden, a former minister of West Side, who returned to be present for the occasion.

The year was one of remembrance and renewed commitment. As West Side looked back upon twenty years of ministry, the congregation gave thanks for the faithfulness of those who had begun the work and looked forward with confidence to the years still ahead.

1922

At a board meeting held March 5, a committee was named to secure plans and estimates for a new Bible School building on the lot south of the church. The continued growth of the Bible School made the need for additional space increasingly apparent.

On Easter Sunday, April 16, the attendance at Bible School was 630, the largest in the church’s history to that time. This record attendance demonstrated both the strength of the Bible School and the growing reach of the congregation.

In October, Brother W. J. Lockhart conducted an evangelistic meeting which proved to be the greatest meeting ever held at West Side up to that time. Through this meeting, 120 new members were added to the church. On October 29, the last day of the meeting, the Bible School attendance reached 762, the largest attendance yet recorded.

The year was one of remarkable growth and spiritual harvest. West Side continued to face the challenges that came with increasing attendance and expanding ministry, but these challenges were evidence of God’s blessing upon the work. With record Bible School attendance and many new members added, the congregation entered the next year with renewed awareness of the need to make room for those being reached.

1923

During the year, the need for additional Bible School space continued to receive attention. On June 3, arrangements were made to raise funds for the new Bible School building. The funds, however, fell far short of what was necessary, and it was decided to wait until a later date. The approximate cost of the proposed building was estimated at $2,000.

The congregation continued its work under the ministry of Brother Gilbert Jones through most of the year. On the evening of September 9, Brother Jones presented his resignation. At the urgent request of the board members, he consented to remain until January 1, 1924.

During Brother Jones’ ministry, 365 new members had been added to the church. His pastorate had included the strengthening of young people’s societies, the observance of the church’s twentieth anniversary, record Bible School attendance, and a great evangelistic meeting.

The year was one of continued growth, but also of deferred plans and pastoral transition. West Side recognized the need for more space, yet waited for the proper time to move forward. As the year closed, the congregation prepared to say farewell to Brother Jones and to enter another season of leadership and ministry.

1924

On June 1, Brother LaVerne Taylor arrived in Springfield to begin his ministry with West Side Christian Church. He and his family moved into the new parsonage at 548 South State Street and entered at once into the work of the congregation.

At this time, the Bible School had grown so large that additional room was urgently needed. To meet this need, a temporary building was erected on the south end of the lot at a cost of $2,860, with the work being done by volunteer labor. The slogan for the project was, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build it.”

The building was constructed between August 7 and September 7. Though referred to as temporary, it was described as the “show place of the church.” The building measured 30 feet wide and 80 feet long and housed the Cradle Roll, Beginner, and Primary Departments.

The year marked the beginning of a long and fruitful ministry under Brother Taylor. With a growing Bible School, a new pastor, a parsonage, and expanded space for children, West Side continued to show its willingness to work, give, and build in order to meet the needs of those being reached.

1925

In 1925, the first Sunrise Easter Service was held at West Side Christian Church. The service was conducted by the Christian Endeavor Society and met at 6 o’clock in the morning, with Mrs. Charles E. Withey serving as leader. This service became the beginning of an annual tradition.

Brother LaVerne Taylor was deeply interested in the churches of the county, especially those without ministers and in need of encouragement. During the year, he formulated a plan to go out to these weaker churches, offering help and strengthening them in the faith. In 1925, he gave assistance to the churches at Berlin and Loami.

The year was marked by worship, outreach, and concern for churches beyond West Side’s own congregation. Through the Sunrise Easter Service, the growing Bible School, and Brother Taylor’s ministry to nearby churches, West Side continued to strengthen both its own people and the wider work of the Lord in the surrounding area.

1926

During the year, the Bible School continued its strong work, averaging 490 in attendance during 1925 and 1926. This steady attendance reflected the importance West Side continued to place upon Bible teaching and the spiritual training of children and adults.

During the evangelistic meetings held in 1926, 60 persons were added to the church. These additions were an encouragement to the congregation and continued the pattern of evangelistic concern that had marked West Side from its beginning.

In March, Mrs. Curry became Superintendent of the Cradle Roll Department, continuing the church’s care for its youngest children and their families.

In July, Brother LaVerne Taylor suggested that the church place all offerings together and support a Living Link Missionary. This reflected his desire for the congregation’s giving to be united in support of the wider work of the gospel.

During the year, the idea of changing the name of the church from “The West Side Christian Church” to “The West Side Church of Christ” was discussed, but no definite action was taken.

Brother Taylor continued preaching in churches throughout the county and city, strengthening the work of neighboring congregations and extending West Side’s influence beyond its own membership.

The church also purchased four lots at State and Ash Streets for $2,900. This purchase reflected continuing attention to the future needs of the congregation and the expanding work of the church.

The year was marked by growth, mission interest, and continued outreach. Through evangelistic meetings, Bible School, support for missions, and Brother Taylor’s work among area churches, West Side continued to serve both its own congregation and the wider kingdom.

1927

During 1927, the church continued its concern for county churches and for the strengthening of congregations beyond its own membership.

In October, Brother LaVerne Taylor suggested that a rally be held on the first Sunday of the revival meeting, inviting the churches that had been helped by West Side’s Gospel teams to come for a basket dinner. He also suggested that a pulpit Bible be given as first prize for the largest attendance and a silk flag as second prize. Attendance was counted at the Bible School, church service, and afternoon service.

The plan was carried out with much enthusiasm. Records show that Auburn received first prize and Athens received second prize. This gathering of county churches became a yearly event until the crowds became too large to be accommodated in the church.

During previous years, West Side had helped support Stuart Street Church. By 1927, that congregation had become self-supporting.

The year reflected West Side’s continuing desire to strengthen other churches as well as its own work. Through the Gospel teams, county church rallies, and support of Stuart Street Church, the congregation continued to show a kingdom spirit that reached beyond its own walls.

1928

In January, Brother LaVerne Taylor preached a revival meeting for the Stuart Street Christian Church, a congregation which West Side had helped in previous years.

During the year, the church borrowed $1,200 to repair the roof and chimney. The Gospel teams also continued their active work in the county, helping to hold religious services in weaker churches. A tent was rented for $25 per week to be used in a meeting on the south side lots. The Gospel teams rented this tent for 17 weeks, with the first meeting held at Auburn and the second at Old Berlin.

In March, the basement was redecorated by the men of the congregation.

The largest attendance recorded during the year was 960 on April 17. On Easter Sunday, there were 1,108 in attendance.

On Sunday, July 28, a most impressive ceremony was held as two young men from West Side were ordained to the ministry: Robert Bennett, son of Mrs. Minnie Bennett, and Lyle Chamberlain, son of Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Chamberlain.

In August, the Builders’ room was completed in the basement at a cost of $676.62.

In the fall, a four-week meeting was held with Brother Taylor preaching. There were 111 additions to the church.

Also during the year, the title of the Stuart Street Church building was turned over to that congregation.

The year was marked by practical improvements, strong attendance, evangelistic work, and continued concern for churches beyond West Side. Through the Gospel teams, revival meetings, building improvements, and the ordination of young men to ministry, West Side continued to serve both its own congregation and the broader work of the kingdom.

1929

The 1929 Easter Sunrise Prayer Service was led by Lyle Chamberlain, one of West Side’s own young men who had been ordained to the ministry the previous year.

Offerings were given on Volunteers’ Day, June 20, to be set aside for payment on the south side lots.

During the year, Roy Coy became organist when Edith Withey resigned to be married and to make her home in Geneva, Illinois.

In July, the church board decided to adopt Mrs. Gertrude Morse as the Living Link of the church, representing West Side in the mission field of Tibet. She and her husband, J. Russell Morse, along with their sons Robert and Eugene, were then serving Christ on the border of Tibet as independent missionaries.

In the fall, the Payne sisters came to assist Brother Taylor in an evangelistic meeting of four weeks’ duration. There were 56 additions to the church.

The year was marked by continued worship, stewardship, missions, and evangelism. Through the Sunrise Prayer Service, support for the south side lots, the adoption of a Living Link missionary, and the fall evangelistic meeting, West Side continued to strengthen both its local ministry and its concern for the work of Christ in distant places.

1930

An all-night prayer meeting was held on Good Friday, April 18, just preceding the evangelistic meeting with Brother LaVerne Taylor preaching and the Payne sisters singing.

The evangelistic meeting resulted in 79 additions to the church. This continued the strong evangelistic emphasis that had marked Brother Taylor’s ministry and brought encouragement to the congregation.

Near the end of July, announcement was made that new carpet would be laid in the auditorium early in August. The men were to remove the pews, and the women were to clean the floor in preparation for the new carpet. The old carpet was to be laid in the Junior room. The cost of the new carpet was $1,097.

Special credit for the new carpet was given to Mrs. B. Seeders, teacher of the Berean Class, whose planning, work, and ability to enlist the help of others made the project possible.

The Bible School planned an all-day meeting for Rally Day, October 26, beginning at 7:30 in the morning and continuing until 8:30 at night. The total attendance for the day was 2,222, and the day was regarded as a great success in every way.

The year was marked by prayer, evangelism, practical improvement, and strong Bible School participation. Through the all-night prayer meeting, the evangelistic additions, the auditorium improvement, and the remarkable Rally Day attendance, West Side continued to show both spiritual concern and congregational energy in the work of the Lord.

1931

On Easter Sunday, April 5, the goal for attendance was set at 800. The congregation exceeded that goal, with 1,004 in attendance.

An evangelistic meeting began on November 8 and resulted in 83 persons being added to the church. This continued the evangelistic emphasis that had been an important part of West Side’s ministry under Brother LaVerne Taylor.

The year was marked by strong attendance and continued spiritual harvest. With more than one thousand present on Easter Sunday and many added through the fall evangelistic meeting, West Side continued to experience growth and encouragement in the work of the Lord.

1932

Brother LaVerne Taylor’s annual report for 1932 reviewed not only the year, but also the previous six years of ministry. The report showed 1,105 additions to West Side during that period.

The report also showed the continuing fruit of West Side’s concern for churches beyond its own congregation. There had been 500 additions in county churches, and of the 10 county churches aided, seven now had ministers.

Brother Taylor had also held 472 revival services outside of West Side. This reflected the broad reach of his ministry and the congregation’s continuing interest in strengthening the work of Christ throughout the surrounding area.

The year gave evidence that West Side’s influence extended well beyond its own membership. Through additions to the church, service to county congregations, and hundreds of revival services, the work of the Lord continued to grow both within West Side and through the churches it had helped strengthen.

1933

The North American Convention was held in Springfield, June 21 through 25, with fine attendance and program. West Side shared in the significance of this gathering as churches and leaders came together for fellowship, teaching, and encouragement in the work of the Lord.

The Easter Sunrise Service was led by Mrs. LaVerne Taylor, continuing the tradition that had begun at West Side in 1925.

In the fall, an evangelistic meeting was held with the Pollocks serving as leaders of the music and personal workers. Sixty-six persons were added to the church through this meeting.

The year was marked by fellowship with the larger brotherhood, continued worship tradition, and evangelistic fruit. Through the convention, the Easter Sunrise Service, and the fall meeting, West Side continued to participate faithfully in both local ministry and the wider work of the church.

1934

On June 3, Brother LaVerne Taylor and his family completed ten years of faithful and loving service with West Side Christian Church. The church and Bible School planned a celebration during the evening service in recognition of this milestone.

Friends had contributed money, and a committee purchased a set of dishes for Brother and Mrs. Taylor. The dishes were placed on a table in front of the pulpit and, at the proper time, were revealed and presented to them by Mrs. Charles E. Withey.

During the year, 121 persons were added to the church. This continued the fruitful ministry that had marked Brother Taylor’s years of service at West Side.

The year was one of gratitude and continued growth. As the congregation paused to honor ten years of ministry by Brother Taylor and his family, it also rejoiced in the additions to the church and the continued blessing of God upon the work.

1935

In the fall, an evangelistic meeting was held with Brother Henshaw preaching and the Payne sisters providing the singing. This was the fourth meeting in which the Payne sisters had assisted West Side. Through this meeting, 48 persons were added to the church.

In October, Charles Jones was elected Superintendent of the Bible School. This continued the strong emphasis West Side had placed upon Bible teaching and the organization of its Bible School work.

The year was marked by continued evangelism and steady congregational ministry. Through the fall meeting and the ongoing work of the Bible School, West Side continued to labor faithfully in the work of the Lord.

1936

At the close of twelve years of Brother LaVerne Taylor’s work at West Side Christian Church, the church presented Brother and Mrs. Taylor with a chest of silver in appreciation for their faithful service.

On November 6, the Christian Hospital Club was organized with ten ladies. The purpose of the club was to sew and work for the Homes and Christian hospitals in St. Louis. The members met on the first Friday of each month, with dues of twenty-five cents per month. The ladies sewed, knitted, or worked for the Homes or Hospital, and when no such work was ready, they worked on Red Cross projects.

In December, an evangelistic meeting was held with Mr. and Mrs. Brock serving as singers and workers. This meeting brought 79 additions to the church.

At the close of the Christmas meeting, Brother Taylor tendered his resignation. His reason was that he desired to go into the evangelistic field.

The year marked the close of one of the most fruitful pastorates in West Side’s early history. Brother Taylor’s years had included strong evangelistic results, service to county churches, growth in Bible School work, mission concern, and continued strengthening of the congregation. As the church honored his service and received many new additions through the December meeting, it also prepared to enter another season of ministry and leadership.

1937

On April 1, Brother Orval M. Morgan began his work with West Side Christian Church. He came to the congregation from Albia, Iowa, bringing with him Mrs. Morgan, their son James, and Brother Morgan’s mother.

An Easter attendance goal of 1,000 was set, a goal intended to celebrate Brother Morgan’s first Easter with West Side.

The Ladies Aid had been an organization through the years which contributed liberally to many projects undertaken by the church. However, as fewer women were able to carry on the work and program, the organization decided to disband during the year.

In September, the teachers and officers of the Bible School received national recognition and were awarded leather-bound Bibles in a “Reachers and Teachers” national contest.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Tubbs were sponsors of the Christian Endeavor at this time. They reported that 14 young people wanted to attend the Young People’s Conferences.

In October, hopes were expressed that a Bible School could be started in the southwest part of town, but this did not materialize.

The Finance Committee presented a budget of $7,593 for the coming year of 1938. A vote of appreciation was given to Brother Morgan for his plans and push in putting over the finance campaign.

The year marked the beginning of Brother Morgan’s ministry and a new chapter in the life of West Side. Though some long-standing work came to a close, the congregation continued to show strength in Bible School leadership, young people’s ministry, financial planning, and hopes for wider outreach.

1938

For many years, West Side had sent a number of its young people to Christian Service Camps in Indiana, since no satisfactory camps had been established in this section of Illinois. During Brother Orval Morgan’s ministry, the suggestion was made that a location on Lake Springfield be considered as a possible camp site.

A committee was appointed to investigate the possibilities. A site known as the East Hazel Dell area was inspected, but it did not prove to be adequate. After several meetings and much discussion, the present camp site, then known as the Old Shuster Farm, was selected as the likely location.

After further discussion and consideration, the decision was made to move forward. Early in the year, an option was taken on the property for one year. The cost of the option was $200, and the payment was met by about twenty people who were interested in the program.

The year was significant in the development of what would become an important ministry to young people. Through prayer, planning, and the willingness of interested members to give, West Side took the first steps toward establishing a Christian camp on Lake Springfield.

1939

Interest in the Lake Springfield camp project grew rapidly, and facilities were increased in preparation for the first summer camp in 1939. The first camp presented much work and many hardships for those who attended, but it marked the beginning of what would become an important ministry to young people.

During the year, the work of West Side continued, with many out-of-town churches being helped so that the work of the Lord might be carried on.

At Christmas time, Brother Orval Morgan suggested a rather unique idea: that a 20-minute concert of hymns and carols be broadcast from the tower of the church so they could be heard for blocks around. This was done, with music furnished by members of the church, and it received a large amount of favorable comment.

In the latter part of the year, the Kingsmen’s Class suggested the purchase of new pulpit furniture. After discussion and planning, the project moved forward.

During 1939, the Bible School averaged 619 in attendance. The average attendance at the morning worship service was 412, and the average attendance at the evening service was 240. There were 127 additions to the church during the year.

The year was marked by outreach, creativity, growth, and the beginning of camp ministry at Lake Springfield. Through the first summer camp, help given to out-of-town churches, the Christmas tower concert, and continued additions to the congregation, West Side carried forward its ministry with energy and vision.

1940

In 1940, the Lake Springfield Christian Assembly continued to grow, with enrollment reaching over 200 students. This young camp ministry, begun only the year before, was already showing promise as an important work among young people.

On March 17, dedication services were held for the new pulpit furniture which had been suggested by the Kingsmen’s Class in the latter part of the previous year. This furniture became part of the regular worship life of the congregation.

Several practical improvements were also made during the year. A safe was purchased for the church, the parsonage was painted in June, and a new furnace and stoker were installed.

In July, the Bible School picnic was held at the Lake Assembly grounds and was reported to be the biggest ever. This gathering reflected both the strength of the Bible School and the growing importance of the Lake Assembly property in the fellowship life of the church.

In November, word was received that Brother Gilbert Jones had died of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Decatur, Illinois. His death came as a shock to West Side, where he had once served as minister and had been deeply loved by the congregation.

The year was marked by growth at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, improvements to church property, fellowship among the Bible School, and the sorrowful loss of a former minister. Through both progress and grief, West Side continued faithfully in the work of the Lord.

1941

By 1941, West Side had accomplished so many undertakings that it became necessary to expand and carry on the work on a larger scale.

During the year, the basement under the north end of the building was completed, providing room for two large classes. This improvement helped meet the continuing need for additional space in the church’s growing Bible School and ministry work.

Four half-time scholarships for Cincinnati Bible Seminary were written into the budget for 1942, reflecting the congregation’s continued interest in preparing workers for Christian service.

An evangelistic meeting was held at Pleasant Plains, Illinois, with Brother Orval Morgan preaching. Through such efforts, West Side continued its concern for churches and communities beyond its own congregation.

On June 15, dedication services were held for the new rooms in the basement. In September, the Bible School voted to enter the “Christian Education On Advance” campaign, a four-year project designed to better the work of the church and Bible School.

There were 74 additions to the church as a result of the evangelistic meeting held in March.

At Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, 42 different towns were represented, showing the growing reach of the camp ministry which West Side had helped establish only a few years earlier.

During October, Teachers Training Classes were started, further strengthening the teaching ministry of the church.

The year was marked by expansion, education, evangelism, and preparation for future service. Through new classroom space, seminary scholarships, Bible School improvement, camp ministry, and teacher training, West Side continued to strengthen both its own congregation and the wider work of the Lord.

1942

The 40th annual meeting of West Side Christian Church was held on January 7, with 179 people present for a supper and business meeting. Special recognition was given to four charter members who were present.

Plans were made in January for an evangelistic meeting to be held from March 16 to April 5, with Brother Orval Morgan bringing the messages and the Payne sisters conducting the singing.

The Pulpit Supply Committee was also looking for an assistant minister during this time.

On Easter Sunday, there were 1,039 present for the Easter church service. A considerable amount of remodeling and redecorating was completed in the basement of the church during the spring.

At a special meeting of the Board held April 29, Brother Morgan offered his resignation, asking to be released in order to accept the pastorate of the Broadway Church of Christ in Lexington, Kentucky. The Board accepted his resignation with regret, effective September 1.

On September 1, Brother Reuben Anderson began his ministry at West Side. Shortly afterward, a service flag was presented to the church with 23 stars, representing those young men from West Side who were serving their country. A paper called the “Newsette” was also published for the boys in service, helping them keep up with the activities back at West Side.

The year was marked by strong attendance, continued improvement to the church building, pastoral transition, and the realities of wartime. West Side gave thanks for the ministry of Brother Morgan, welcomed Brother Anderson, and continued to encourage those serving both the church and their country.

1943

Brother Reuben Anderson continued his ministry with West Side Christian Church during 1943. The first year of his ministry resulted in 85 additions to the church, giving encouragement to the congregation as it continued the work during wartime.

During the year, Brother Anderson conducted an evangelistic meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio. West Side’s concern for evangelism and the wider work of the church continued to be reflected not only in its own congregation, but also through ministry beyond Springfield.

The average Bible School attendance for the year was 550. On Easter Sunday, April 25, there were 955 present at the service.

The year was marked by continued growth, strong Bible School attendance, and faithful ministry under Brother Anderson’s leadership. Even as the nation remained in a time of war, West Side continued its work of worship, teaching, evangelism, and service.

1944

In the early part of 1944, the Sangamon County Christian Endeavor Union held its annual banquet at West Side Christian Church.

February 6 was an eventful day in the life of the congregation. On that day, the church voted to purchase the property known as Gingham Gardens. The same day, the congregation also voted to call Thomas C. Keys as assistant minister.

An evangelistic meeting was held March 13 through April 2, bringing 42 new members to West Side. Brother T. C. Keys and the Davis sisters were in charge of the music during the meeting.

On Easter Sunday, 1,098 attended the services. Special pledges for South Side Church of Christ amounted to $4,432.90, which proved to be a great encouragement for the new church.

In September, Brother Reuben Anderson held a revival meeting at Ashland, Illinois. Shortly afterward, on October 22, an evangelistic meeting was held at South Side, with Brother F. W. Strong conducting.

During this season, a number of West Side members transferred their membership to South Side Church of Christ. On October 22, 24 members transferred. The Bible School at South Side began November 5, with 30 more transferring from West Side. On November 12, 13 more transferred, making a total of 67 people from West Side. Dedication services were held at South Side on November 19. Again on November 26, 21 West Side members transferred to South Side.

Brother and Sister Anderson closed their ministry at West Side on December 27. On December 28, they left for California, where Brother Anderson was to serve another church.

The year was one of expansion, evangelism, and transition. West Side strengthened its own work, helped encourage the beginning of South Side Church of Christ, and released members for the sake of a new congregation. As the year closed, the church said farewell to Brother Anderson and prepared for the next chapter of ministry.

1945

One month after Brother Reuben Anderson left West Side Christian Church, Brother Ernest E. Laughlin and his family came from Orrville, Ohio, to become the church’s minister. On February 1, Brother Laughlin brought his first message to the congregation.

Plans were immediately made for an evangelistic meeting to begin March 18. The meeting was well attended, and 40 members were added to the church.

At this time, the church membership numbered 1,382. The Bible School had an average attendance of 526, and on Easter Sunday there were 1,093 present for the services.

Brother Thomas Keys, who had served as assistant minister, resigned to begin service in Bethel, Ohio. His work at West Side was remembered with appreciation, and he was missed by the congregation.

It was evident that some type of new building would be needed to accommodate the Bible School classes. A committee was appointed to study the details and possibilities of a new Bible School building. During the year, $7,190.53 was raised for the Building Fund.

For some time, the church had not sponsored a Boy Scout troop. Brother Laughlin, having served as a Scoutmaster himself, knew the value of this training for young boys and was concerned that a troop be started. A troop was soon organized under the direction of Mr. J. J. Moran as Scoutmaster and Mr. Harold Van Meter as Assistant Scoutmaster. After Mr. Moran moved out of the city, Mr. Van Meter became Scoutmaster of Troop 38.

During the summer, six weeks of camp were held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly.

The year marked the beginning of Brother Laughlin’s ministry and a renewed season of organization and growth. With additions to the church, strong Easter attendance, continued Bible School needs, renewed Scouting ministry, and summer camp activity, West Side continued to strengthen its work among children, youth, and families.

1946

Early in 1946, church attendance had become so large that arranging seating space created a considerable problem. Brother Ernest E. Laughlin suggested that two worship services be held on Sunday mornings, with one service beginning at 8:00 a.m., Bible School at 9:30 a.m., and a second worship service following at 10:30 a.m. This plan met with the approval of the Church Board, and the two services were soon started.

The Bible School continued to grow, averaging 582 in attendance. On Easter Sunday, there were 1,021 present for worship services. Church membership reached a total of 1,687 members.

During the year, $5,453.45 was raised for the Building Fund. By the close of the year, the Building Fund showed a balance of $22,605.13.

This year also marked the beginning of the Bean Suppers at West Side. These suppers were planned as an evangelistic arm of the church and were held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, beginning in October and continuing through March of the following year. They were sponsored by the Men’s Brotherhood, with Brother Marion Hoffman serving as president. The suppers averaged 166 men in attendance, giving great encouragement for the future of the ministry.

A total of 203 new members were added to the church during the year.

The year was marked by growth, adaptation, and evangelistic vision. With crowded services, expanding membership, growing Bible School attendance, continued giving toward future building needs, and the beginning of the Bean Suppers, West Side continued to make room for those being reached through the work of the Lord.

1947

In 1947, a church was established on East Monroe Street. This church was called the Monroe Street Church of Christ.

During the year, John Carter was called to serve as Assistant Minister. He was well known to the congregation, having grown up in the church from boyhood to young manhood, and was now ready to serve the Lord in the work of the church.

Mr. and Mrs. Morse, West Side’s Living Link missionaries serving in the Far East in Tibet, came home on furlough. A report was also received from Guy Mayfield, another of West Side’s Living Link missionaries, who was serving in the Mediterranean area. He reported that he was working in seven cities and traveling about 500 miles per week.

The Bible School averaged 589 in attendance during the year. A Girl Scout troop was organized, with Mrs. Clarence Jones serving as troop leader.

During the summer, Lake Springfield Christian Assembly held seven weeks of camp, with 552 students enrolled. Of this enrollment, 131 churches were represented.

The Men’s Brotherhood enjoyed a very successful year, with Mr. Jesse Ray serving as president. The Bean Supper program averaged 198 men at each meeting. One of the most pleasing accomplishments was the attendance of 333 new men who had never attended a Bean Supper before.

On Labor Day, the Men’s Brotherhood held an all-day fish fry at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Six hundred people attended the day’s activities. The enthusiasm and interest were so encouraging that the Brotherhood decided to make the fish fry an annual event.

There were 151 additions to the church during the year.

The year was marked by expansion, missions, youth work, camp ministry, men’s ministry, and evangelistic fruit. Through the establishment of Monroe Street Church of Christ, the calling of John Carter, continued missionary relationships, strong Bible School attendance, and the growth of the Bean Supper program, West Side continued to reach both within Springfield and beyond.

1948

The year 1948 brought many outstanding activities to West Side Christian Church. Both morning and evening attendance at worship services increased over the previous year.

Brother John Carter tendered his resignation to serve as Office Editor of the Christian Standard in Cincinnati, Ohio.

On March 24, the new Baldwin Electric Organ was received. It was first used on Easter Sunday and was dedicated on Mother’s Day evening, May 9. The chimes were received, and on October 31 a program was held dedicating them to the service men of World War II.

The average Bible School attendance for the year was 604, an increase of 15 over the previous year.

Scoutmaster Harold Van Meter reported that 23 boys were registered in Troop 38. He also reported that 14 scouts took part in the Annual Lincoln Pilgrimage. At the Annual Council Meeting held December 9, Troop 38 was again presented the 1948 President’s Award for outstanding recruiting achievement.

West Side was host to the North American Christian Convention, held at the Armory. This was the second time West Side had the privilege of serving as host.

The Men’s Brotherhood accomplished its greatest year thus far. The Brotherhood organized a Cub Pack, and the Bean Supper program continued to attract large groups of men.

The year was marked by increased attendance, worship improvements, youth work, convention service, and strong men’s ministry. Through music, Scouting, Bible School, hospitality to the larger brotherhood, and the continued growth of the Bean Suppers, West Side carried forward its ministry with strength and usefulness.

1949

The year 1949 presented many activities and opportunities for the people of West Side Church of Christ. Brother Ernest E. Laughlin conducted a one-week pre-Easter meeting.

Plans were completed, and bids were let and accepted for the new Bible School building. Work began on May 31. Cornerstone laying ceremonies were held September 25, with Brother Burris Butler of Cincinnati, Ohio, bringing the message.

Prior to this year, a great deal of thought, planning, and prayer had been given to the establishing of a church in the southeast part of the city. These efforts became a reality as arrangements were made to conduct a tent meeting on three lots at 2531 South 13th Street, which had been purchased for the purpose of building a church.

A four-week meeting was held with Brother Luther Perrine of Cornland, Illinois, serving as evangelist. At the conclusion of the meeting, 57 persons had been added, and Bunn Park Church of Christ had its beginning. Forty-six people transferred from West Side to help establish the new congregation.

Enrollment at Lake Springfield Assembly was 526 during the summer. Thirty-five young people dedicated themselves to full-time life work for the Lord, and 76 young people made the confession.

The polio quarantine caused the lowest attendance of the year on August 21, with only 206 people present. Even so, the average Bible School attendance for the year was 569, only 35 less than the previous year.

The year was marked by building, church planting, camp ministry, and perseverance. Through the new Bible School building, the beginning of Bunn Park Church of Christ, the continued work of Lake Springfield Assembly, and faithful Bible School attendance even during a difficult season, West Side continued to expand its ministry and strengthen the work of the Lord in Springfield and beyond.

1950

During 1950, the work begun the previous year in the southeast part of Springfield continued to develop through Bunn Park Church of Christ.

The new building for Bunn Park, erected by West Side Church, was ready for occupancy on January 1. The building was dedicated on January 25.

Brother Luther Perrine began his ministry with Bunn Park on January 15. Prior to his coming, Ollie Trail, an elder of West Side Church, had served as temporary minister for the new congregation.

A two-week evangelistic service was held in the spring, and a four-day preaching rally was held in the fall. During the year, the Bible School attendance at Bunn Park averaged 113, and Easter attendance was 169.

The year showed the continuing fruit of West Side’s efforts to establish and strengthen new congregations in Springfield. Through the opening and dedication of the Bunn Park building, the beginning of Brother Perrine’s ministry, and the continued evangelistic work of the new church, West Side’s influence extended beyond its own congregation for the sake of the kingdom.

1951

So that the Golden Jubilee booklet might serve its purpose, the committee desired to record the activities and events of West Side up to and including May 13, 1951.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of West Side since the church was organized. A committee was appointed to handle the celebrations and activities in honor of the Golden Anniversary. The committee presented the idea that everyone should wear a lapel button. The buttons were designed to signify the cross and Bible, and a supply was ordered.

Immediately following the anniversary week, an evangelistic meeting was held for two weeks with Brother O. A. Trinkle of Minnesota Bible College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, serving as evangelist.

On April 8, the last Sunday of the evangelistic meeting, dedication services were held in the new building. Brother Ernest E. Laughlin brought a challenging message.

The North American Christian Convention was held in the Illinois State Armory from April 25 through April 29. Brother Laughlin served as chairman of arrangements and was elected president of the 1952 convention to be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. About 5,000 ministers, missionaries, and laymen gathered in Springfield for the five-day convention.

On Sunday, May 13, Pentecost Sunday, a special Jubilee program was held in the auditorium of the new building. Brother Earl Hargrove of Lincoln Bible Institute in Lincoln, Illinois, brought the keynote message. This program was the highlight of the Jubilee anniversary, and a large crowd was present for the activities.

During the year, West Side also founded Christian Day School, later known as Christian Elementary School and now Springfield Christian School. This new ministry extended West Side’s commitment to Christian education beyond the Sunday Bible School and became one of the most lasting expressions of the church’s desire to help children grow in faith and learning.

The year was one of remembrance, dedication, and celebration. As West Side marked fifty years of ministry, the congregation gave thanks for the faithfulness of God, dedicated new space for the growing work, welcomed the larger brotherhood to Springfield, and looked ahead to the continued service of Christ and His church.

1952

1952 was a busy year for West Side Christian Church, with Brother Ernest E. Laughlin, Minister, ending the year with a message "We know within our own hearts if we have been faithful, sincere and really devoted to His Cause. The past we cannot change — Lord forgive our sins. The present we may examine — Lord help our infirmities. The future lies within our hands — Lord consecrate our souls."

On Sunday evening, December 21, over 350 people witnessed a drama presentation. The young adult group presented "The Other Wiseman" directed by Jane Mullett. Participants in the play were Ralph Good, Larry Farris, Chuck Trippel, David Hampsmeier, Ray Westbrook and Bonnie Catherwood. A trio that included Del Reynolds, Ralph McLean and Eural Hoffman sang at the service.

December 28 was the last "Building Fund Day" for the new Bible School building that was built in 1949. A mortgage burning ceremony was held at the New Year's Eve program that ended at midnight with a devotion given by the minister.

1953

1953 began with Ernest E. Laughlin as Minister and Ralph D. McLean as Minister of Youth and Education. New board officers elected were Charles McBrian, Chairman of the Board of Elders; Clifford Search, Chairman of the General Board; Harvey Trippel, Treasurer; and W. D. Lancaster, Chairman of the Board of Deacons.

The Missionary Committee included Chairman Merrill Cruzan, Ernest Laughlin, Frank McCune, Harry McWilliams, Miss Eleanor Polk, Mrs. Ralph Winters and Mrs. B. L. Renfrow.

Newly elected officers of the Women's Department for 1953 were: Mrs. Ernest Laughlin, Mrs. Charles McBrian, Mrs. Ray Graham, Mrs. Ralph Moore, Mrs. Louise Scott, Mrs. Charles Stewart, Mrs. Victor Lankford, Mrs. W. E. Lucas, Mrs. Ed McGuar, Mrs. J. C. Barnes and Mrs. Glen Tarr.

In January four new choirs were inaugurated into the music program consisting of the Junior Choir, the Jubal Choir, the Youth Choir and the Chorus Choir, in addition to the Senior Choir.

The Christian Day School Board elected for 1953 consisted of Jess Ray, Stanley Curry, Kenneth Smith, Melvin Hurley and Clifford Search.

On February 22 the new nursery was dedicated with everyone rejoicing in its size and facilities.

The adult Bible School classes held an attendance contest in March, each class with a different "sister" church. Included were the Beau Knots, U and I, Loyal Daughters, Bereans, Philathea and Men's Class.

Beginning in March, a monthly newsletter similar to the Harbinger was published for the Christian Day School and was mailed regularly to the parents of children in the school.

March 1 marked the first Sunday West Side Christian Church was on the air on WMAY. The broadcast was a 15-minute prerecorded program called "The Open Book" with Brother Laughlin as the preacher and other West Side talent. It was hoped this broadcast would reach hundreds of people in our area. Each March West Side participated in church league basketball tournaments. (Church league basketball continued through the years.)

In April the Senior Choir under the direction of Mrs. Harold DeCamera, with Roy W. Coy at the organ, presented a cantata entitled "The Empty Tomb". During this Easter week, 12 were added by baptism and 17 by transfer of membership. There were 973 present in the Bible School on Easter Sunday morning. In April an invitation was extended for visitors to have lunch at the Christian Day School lunchroom. The cost of the noon meal was 25 cents for children and 40 cents for adults. Total enrollment in the school at that time was 52.

On May 12 the Mother/Daughter banquet was held with more than 300 attending. Co-chairmen were Mrs. Charles Tubbs and Mrs. Leroy Linn. (Mother/Daughter banquets, brunches or teas continued through the years.)

June 28 was "Improvement Fund Day" and the offering that Sunday totaled $726.16. Many improvements were made that year and new equipment was purchased with the monthly Improvement Sunday collections.

Each week of July and August 1953, West Side participated in the Church Soft Ball League at Iles Park, with Ed Kane as Team Manager. (Church softball leagues continued through the years.)

During the summer of 1953, Lake Springfield Christian Assembly held seven weeks of camp with 655 students enrolled, and of this enrollment, 90 churches were represented. (Camp at LSCA continued through the following years.)

Entering the mission field from West Side were two sisters, Eleanor Brown and Zola Brown. Eleanor served in the Go Ye Chapel Mission in New York City, and Zola traveled to the Belgian Congo in Central Africa.

A special vote was taken in August on a resolution recommended by the General Board that the local congregation finance one-half of the registration fee and one-half of the tuition for a child attending the Christian Day School whose parents were members of West Side Christian Church. The resolution passed.

Our living link missionaries in 1953 were Mrs. Gertrude Morse, Eleanor Brown and Elston E. Knight.

Under the leadership of Ernie Laughlin, the Men's Brotherhood sponsored the All Church Labor Day Fish Fry at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Enthusiasm and interest were so encouraging that the Brotherhood decided to make it an annual event. On September 7, 1953, the Annual Labor Day Fish Fry was held with 600 attending the well-planned and organized outing. (The All Church Labor Day Fish Fry continued annually at LSCA.)

In November West Side held a two-week evangelistic meeting with Brother Kenneth Martin presenting the messages.

The youth of West Side presented a three-act play entitled The Birth of Our Lord on December 20 under the direction of Leonard Musick.

A youth revival was held the week of December 21. The evangelist was Phil Young, a student at Lincoln Bible Institute, and the song leader was Howard Kraps, Youth Minister of the First Christian Church in Lincoln.

Brother Ralph McLean, Minister of Youth and Education, terminated his service in December, to give full time to the development of The Christian Youth Hour.

The year-end report for 1953 showed that a total of 145 precious souls had become members of the congregation. The average Bible School attendance was 718, and the average attendance of the two morning worship services and the evening service was 944.

1954

In January the new Board members elected were: Robert Haenig, Chairman of the Board of Elders; Don Lankford, Chairman of the General Board; Harvey Trippel, Treasurer; and Leonard Sapp, Chairman of the Board of Deacons.

Brother Laughlin established the Men's Bean Suppers as a tool for outreach and fellowship among the men. It was held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month starting in October and ending in March of the following year. The bean suppers proved to be so successful that a decision was made to continue with them each year. (Men's bean suppers did continue, but not for the duration as in those early years.)

There was a spiritual crusade the week of March 22-26 with appearances each night of the week by different speakers. Average attendance was 321 with 30 souls added to the church.

In April the Senior Choir presented the 1954 Easter cantata entitled "Love Triumphant."

Also in April, the General Board of West Side approved sponsorship of, and the congregation supported, a Pension Trust Plan whereby ministers of any Christian Church could voluntarily have the advantage of a pension trust if the church where they served participated. The church and the minister would share the payments.

The last Sunday in June was a special night. The theme was titled "Hand in Hand Together" and featured couples married by Brother Laughlin since 1945.

In 1954 Daily Vacation Bible School was organized by Mrs. Naomi Laughlin, and Department Heads were Mrs. Henry Mull, Mrs. Noble Maddux and Mrs. Charles McBrian. (Vacation Bible School continued each year.)

On September 28 the new kitchen was completed and the Women's Department held dedication services with a short program and refreshments.

South Side Christian Church announced the dedication of their new house of worship in December. The speaker was Alva Sizemore. All members of West Side who had a part in starting the South Side Church were invited to attend a special recognition service.

1955

Early in 1955, the "Open Book" broadcast over Radio Station WMAY presented its 100th program.

A reception honoring Brother and Mrs. Laughlin on their tenth anniversary at West Side was held in the new basement following evening services on February 20.

Brother Laughlin began his Preacher's Pre-Easter Class for boys and girls in March and continued through April 3. About 28 young people attended. (Classes continued to be held for those young people interested in becoming Christians.)

A new married couples Bible School class was formed in February, taught by Mrs. Hildred McGuar. After deep consideration, the members named it the T.N.T. class. The initials stood for "Tied And True", signifying tied to Jesus and true to Him. From the "Preacher's Corner" of the Harbinger, Brother Laughlin said in part, "We shall watch with interest and pray for the growth of this young class."

In an effort to boost summer attendance, a Calling Campaign was conducted by all Bible School classes starting in early 1955 and closing in June with a total of 675 people contacted. The Berean class made a total of 111 calls; TNT class made 106 calls; and the Beau Knots had a total of 96 calls with all other classes completing calls as well.

The Women's Fellowship luncheon was held March 3 and the guest speaker was G.B. Gordon, Program Director of WICS-TV. Tickets were 60 cents and a nursery was provided.

March 29 the General Board accepted the proposal of General Clay Donner, Director of Civil Defense for Springfield and Sangamon County, to conduct a ten-week training program for West Side people in the event of an air raid attack.

A cantata entitled "Christ Crucified" was presented on April 3 with scripture read by Charles Jones. The organist was Roy W. Coy, and Mrs. Harold DeCamera directed the cantata.

The total attendance of all Easter services on Sunday, April 10, was 2,766 with 27 baptisms and 5 transfers.

A revival was held April 10-17 with Brother Laughlin bringing the messages. Pauline DeCamera was the song leader and Carol Haenig and Esther Bell were the pianists.

On May 5 Brother Jay E. Lynn, the first minister of West Side Christian Church, passed away in Claremont, California. He had served this congregation from January 1, 1902 until June 1, 1904.

An annual cleanup day was held in May 1955 to prepare Lake Springfield Christian Assembly for the summer camp season with participants providing basket dinners. Camp enrollment in 1955 was 555 with 25 baptisms and 14 re-dedications.

On May 24 the Bible School Council voted to change Promotion Day from October to June, so that it would coincide with the graduation of the public schools. Therefore, all departments were to promote their students on June 26.

The "Talking Bible" demonstration at West Side on June 7 let everyone hear the Bible on 33 1/3RPM records. This was new and unique and had only recently been made available at moderate prices.

In June one of the Elders made a splendid suggestion — a church library! Many people would be able to contribute worthwhile books and others would contribute to a fund to purchase useable books.

On November 3, a Women's Department fellowship dinner was held. It was a "guest night" with the husbands invited to attend. Tickets were 60 cents each.

On December 18 the choir, under the direction of Mrs. Harold DeCamera, presented "The Song of the Angels" Christmas cantata.

In December the new church secretary, Jane McCammack, placed her membership with West Side Christian Church. She was a graduate of Lincoln Bible Institute.

1956

On January 1 there was a total of 718 in the a.m. worship services, 200 in the p.m. service and 592 in Bible School.

In March the Camp Board secured Mr. and Mrs. Earl King as custodians for the Lake Springfield Christian Assembly.

The Benevolent Committee in 1956 included Jo Rowe, Margie Crump, Margaret Crabtree, Merrill Cruzan, Francis Fishburn, Georgia Colter and Ed Foutch.

West Side was on the air again at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, May 6. This time the 30-minute program was on radio station WCVS and consisted of music, scripture, a message and an answer to a biblical question.

During the five Sunday evenings of July, open-air services were held at the Christian Day School lots on North Walnut and Miller Streets. Both Jesus and John the Baptist began preaching out of doors, and the first century Christians, having no church houses, met under the stars. The titles of the first two meetings were "Don't Fence Me In" and "Look at the Stars."

Christian Day School buses were put into service at the beginning of the 1956-57 school year. A chauffeur's license was required to drive the large bus, but not the station wagon. The pay rate was $1.00 per hour. A total of 141 students were registered for the 1956-57 school year.

The new Director of Christian Education, Don Whitney and his wife, Bobbi, were added to our membership on September 30.

1957

The Building Planning Committee reported that a complete building program was planned for the church. The Elders approved one day of every month as a "Church Building Fund Day" with February 17 being first. The amount contributed was $893.88. It was voted to take up the option on the south end of the property west of the church. The congregation voted to initiate plans to build a new worship auditorium.

On Easter Sunday there were 1,155 in Bible School, a goal that many had worked very hard to attain.

On March 26 a ladies' bean supper was held and hosted by the men. There were 227 ladies in attendance.

In 1957, as in other years, emphasis was put on planning a good attendance for Pentecost Day, which marks the birth of the church when 3,000 people decided to do something about their lost condition. They believed, repented and were baptized for the remission of their sins.

On May 26 the Christian Day School held its first graduation exercises with attractive diplomas made by Delbert Reynolds. There were a total of eight graduates. This was indeed a mark of progress in the history of the school.

In June prayers were asked for Brother Laughlin who took a leave of absence because of illness. Brother Don Whitney asked that everyone help ease the burden by "keeping your Christian life on such a high spiritual plane that it will not be a matter of concern to your minister and by giving of your talents, service and wisdom to the church that its progress and future will not be a matter of great concern or anxiety."

In August a welcomed letter was received from Brother Laughlin showing improvement in his health and assurance that there was no malignancy, but being cautioned against such a heavy schedule. Brother and Mrs. Laughlin retuned to the congregation and he to the pulpit on September 8, and the evening services were renewed after a summer of working with the other churches. A fellowship for Brother Laughlin was held after the evening services.

The General Board approved the building plans in September, and the drawings of the floor plans were displayed for the construction of the new worship sanctuary seating approximately 672 people as the Number I project. The Number 2 project would be the remodeling of our present Bible School space. A vote by the congregation was taken on November 3 and the building plans were approved.

A revival was held October 21 through November 1. Brother Earl Ray "Cotton" Jones, Minister of the Gardenside Christian Church, Lexington, Kentucky, brought a new ring to the old gospel from the South.

1958

New choir robes were purchased and arrived in February. They were paid for by private contributions with no money taken from the regular budget. The cost of each robe was $15.45.

The youth held an enthusiastic pre-camp rally in March 1958 with nearly 250 young people.

Over fifty of our youth attended the Midwest Christian Youth Convention in Greenville, Illinois on April 28, 1958. They participated in the program by demonstrating our youth organization and describing the process of learning Christian service by doing various jobs.

Many times during the 1950s West Side placed in the "Top Ten" for attendance printed in the Lookout. In November of 1957 West Side placed seventh. Those people having perfect attendance in Bible School became members of the "52 Club" and were presented with a pin and given special recognition during the Sunday evening services on February 12, 1958. A goal had been set to have 900 in Bible School each Sunday from Easter to Pentecost, and that goal was met. Later in November, the combined morning worship total was 885, and the Bible School total was 820, indicating a great need for a new worship center.

May 25 was the date of the second Christian Day School graduation with nine students graduating.

On June 15 the congregation voted to employ the National Fund Raising Company, Inc. of Chicago to supervise and assist us in raising funds for our new building.

One of the highlights of the summer youth activities was the Great Youth Fair held each year at Lincoln Bible Institute. In August 1958 the parade featured entirely music. Each group was required to sing and portray a hymn. Groups were judged and ribbons awarded to winners. There was also a talent contest. Twenty-three of our young people attended and participated in the parade. A second place ribbon was awarded to Bill King who played his accordion in the talent contest.

In September, by congregational vote, West Side sold 12 lots of property and portions of two lots in the Walnut Hill Addition. The buyer was the John B. Crosby Company of Springfield for a sum of $22,000.00.

By October a Building Fund Committee was selected consisting of the following men who would be working with the National Fund Raising Company: Wayne Canterbury, Alvin Cormeny, Virgil Dial, Reeves Evans, Edwin Foutch, William Gates, James Henderson, Leonard Hill, Edward Kane, Don Lankford, Warren LaRue, Charles McBrian, Edward McGuar, Don Nesbit, Jess Ray, Leonard Sapp, Clifford Search, Art Smith, Carl Sternamen, Oliver Stewart, Harvey Trippel and Charles Tubbs.

A column entitled, "You Can Quote Me..." regarding the building fund campaign and our proposed new worship sanctuary, was written by various members of the congregation and was published for several weeks in the Harbinger during November 1958. Each paragraph rang with positive viewpoints and ideas.

The Christmas Story was presented in song and the motion picture, "Holy Night", was shown on Sunday evening, December 21.

1959

A junior worship service for ages kindergarten through the sixth grade was started in April at both the 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services, with 109 children present at the first service. This was something new and different for West Side.

The annual Ladies' Bean Supper was held on April 28, and the Mother/Daughter Banquet was held on May 7 at a cost of 75 cents each.

In November the Benevolent Committee requested names of needy families for the Thanksgiving baskets. This was a yearly undertaking to provide food for those less fortunate at Thanksgiving time. (The giving of Thanksgiving baskets continued through the years.)

The Building Fund reached $83,881.55 by the end of the year 1959.

1960

LaRue Turley gave the Treasurer's Report in January. Accounts Receivables were $6,453.63 with disbursements of $2,938.73; leaving a balance of $3,514.90. The Building Fund had a balance of $89,781.87 as of January 31, 1960.

A swimming pool was being built at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly in late 1959 after approval of the Lake Springfield Christian Assembly Board. On February 14, 1960, there was a three-way pulpit exchange involving West Side, South Side and the Lincoln Christian Churches. Brother Leon Appel from Lincoln spoke at West Side with a presentation of the new pool project and pictures. Brother Laughlin preached at South Side and Brother Howard Kraps journeyed to Lincoln. This exchange was to help generate interest for the new swimming pool project at LSCA.

In April it was announced that the Building Fund had passed the $100,000 mark and that plans were in the final stages so that the building could be started soon.

In June descriptions of the new worship auditorium were listed in the weekly newsletter, the Harbinger. While the building was under construction, all worship services and Bible School classes, except the junior and primary classes, were to be held at the Hay-Edwards Elementary School on Lawrence Avenue.

In June a letter from Mrs. Ray Graham, President of the Women's Department of West Side, announced with great detail that the women would be organizing Circles so that the women could help each other find a place of more active service for Christ and the church. There were 14 Circles and they began meeting in September at the homes of the circle leaders.

On July 10 the congregation gathered to worship in the old building for the last time and to bid farewell. On Monday the men of the church were to remove the pews, pulpit furniture, chairs, etc. Following that, a demolition crew would be at work. Brother Laughlin asked the congregation to remember that God is the one who wrought good work and that the new facility would have greater utility and greater potential.

In August James Osness became the new Director of Education. He was a native of South Dakota and attended the Minnesota Bible College. He, his wife and son were welcomed into our church.

By the end of October, the Building Fund had grown to $121,370.14.

The Cornerstone Laying for the new building was held Sunday, December 4 at 2:30 p.m. Among the articles included in the cornerstone box were: microfilm of the history of the church, list of our leadership personnel, pictures of our two remaining charter members, other pictures, a local newspaper, song book, Bible, list of men ordained at West Side, along with some other items. Brother John Carter with the Standard Publishing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio, gave the address.

1961

At a congregational election in January, Wayne Hayes, missionary to the Mexican people, was accepted as a living link missionary to fill the post vacated by Eleanor Brown with the Go Ye Chapel of New York City.

On January 24 the Men's Brotherhood held a box supper gathering. This was an opportunity for the men to get together for a rousing song session and sermon.

For the record, in April 1961 the name "West Side Christian Church" now would appear on the front of our new building. This was the corporate name of the congregation. All legal transactions, checks, etc. used this corporate name. As further appendage, the name "Church of Christ" would appear in parenthesis just under the above name on the building, on our stationary, and other publications of the church.

In May the General Board received and accepted the resignation of James Osness as Education Director to be effective on July 16, 1961.

West Side was happy to announce that services would be conducted in the new sanctuary on June 4. Dedication services for the new sanctuary were held on Sunday afternoon, July 9 with Brother Burris Butler, Managing Editor of Standard Publishing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio, as the main speaker. He is the individual who brought the cornerstone-laying message for our education building.

It was announced that there would be an organ recital on Sunday afternoon, July 23, to dedicate our new organ with a fellowship hour following immediately in the church basement. In August everyone was urged to attend a big fun filled festival at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. The menu consisted of boneless fried fish, potato chips, baked beans, cole slaw, sliced tomatoes and a favorite drink for only 75 cents for adults and 50 cents for children. There would be trap shooting with real guns and clay pigeons, boating and water skiing, plus a big ball game in the afternoon. A wonderful program followed the noon meal that included songs by the Believers Quartet, solos by various people of the church, plus a large number of surprises. All of this was climaxed by antics from Luke Perrine and Ernie Laughlin (local clowns).

New offering plates were used for the first time in early October. The plates were designed to match the rest of our paneling, and were provided as a gift from one of our fine families. October - With God All Things Are Possible. The final tabulation of commitments to complete our new sanctuary obligation amounted to in excess of $138,000.

The choir presented their annual Christmas cantata on December 13 entitled "Love Transcending".

1962

Fixed monthly expenditures for our congregation amounted to $3,423.31. This did not include office supplies, janitor supplies or any other unusual expenses. Due to demands by extra-budgetary items and operations, a deficit was being created in our current operation budget. The church was alerted to the fact that every member of the West Side congregation must face this serious consideration. In addition, a "Turn Off the Lights Campaign" was conducted. The electric bill had averaged $135.00 per month for the past four months. Much of this was considered to be unnecessary expenses, and our members were asked to please help by turning off lights when leaving any room.

In September the General Board interviewed Brother Charles Lee, the Minister of Shoals Christian Church, to be our Assistant Minister. He had a very successful ministry at the Shoals, Indiana, Christian Church for four years. Mr. Lee was 29 years old, married with three children. The Board recommended that Mr. Lee be called to West Side. On September 30 the congregation approved hiring Brother Lee as Assistant Minister. He would be assuming his duties here at West Side on November 1.

In October Brother Laughlin was operated on at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, and was doing fine. However, in December, the congregation was sadly informed that it was necessary for him to cease active service at West Side for an indefinite period of time.

1963

In February the Thursday workers finished 26 quilts, made 21,243 cancer dressings and gave two-dozen dishtowels to the kitchen.

Also in February "The Light of Evangelism" was a new feature for our Sunday evenings. Worship hour featured a program whose purpose it was to introduce our Sunday evening program to the outside; create a renewed interest among West Side members in the evening hour; tie our Bible School to this evening hour; and also to promote evangelism. The "Light of Evangelism" was symbolized by a lighted cross which would only remain lighted so long as there were two people in the evening hour that had never attended our evening service before.

In March the West Side congregation was informed that Brother R. H. Heicke, age 82, a former minister of West Side had died on January 28 at his home in Carbondale. Mr. Heicke served West Side from September 1918 until November 1920.

1964

By February a new format was being designed for the Harbinger. It would contain more news of the congregation than the present one — listing the known sick, deaths, marriages, births, announcements and other pertinent news of the congregation. Suggestions from church members were welcomed.

In February the General Board voted to recommend to the congregation the purchase of the Nazarene parsonage property located two houses west of the church building on Edwards Street.

Again in the summer of 1964, West Side would be having combined evening services with South Side Christian Church. The location of services would alternate between the two churches during the months of June and July.

Don Ray resigned in May as Minister of Education to accept a call to the First Christian Church in Phoenix, Arizona, as their Minister of Education.

It was noted in July that the men's clinic would become a reality. Plans were made to hold a Men's Christian Clinic at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly on September 4 and 5. (The Men's Clinic continued to be held for many years at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly.)

Brother Bill Scattergood began serving as preacher of Junior Church in mid-September.

In September the Board of Elders granted Ernie Laughlin a few weeks leave of absence and in October the Board granted Brother Ernie another leave of absence from all ministerial duties for 60 days. Brother Enos Dowling offered to present the messages each Sunday morning. If members of the congregation needed assistance, they were advised to please call Charlie Lee or Bill Scattergood.

1965

The Ladies' Fellowship was honored to have Jane Mullett of West Side, a worldwide traveler, speak on "Good People and Places" at the January dinner meeting in Fellowship Hall. Later in the year, the Ladies' Fellowship welcomed Mrs. Leon Appel of Lincoln as the speaker for the evening. Her message was "Christian Women's Warm Hearts and Helping Hands."

February 8 was the Annual Sweetheart Banquet for area churches. Tickets sold for $1.00 each. (Sweetheart Banquets continued through the years.)

In February the Laughlins celebrated their 20th anniversary at West Side.

Also in February, a Big Brother/Big Sister Program was set up under the Pastoring Committee with Brother Jess Ray as chairman. This program was designed to help the new members find a way into the fellowship of West Side.

The Men's Brotherhood "kickoff' banquet was held on February 23. All men attending were treated to a free steak supper along with great fellowship.

The Lake Springfield Christian Assembly Camp Board and area churches were working to get the administration building finished, and on May 29 a dedication of the administration building was held with Marion Henderson speaking.

Brother Laughlin entered Mayo Clinic in May for a checkup and he requested that the congregation remember him in prayer. Then in August we were all saddened to learn that it had become necessary for Brother Laughlin to resign as our Senior Minister. At the September General Board meeting, it was recommended that Brother Laughlin be given the title of Minister Emeritus.

During Ernie Laughlin's years of service as Senior Minister to the West Side Christian Church, there were 1,544 individuals baptized and 1,281 transferred their membership to the West Side congregation.

The week of December 26 was titled "Timothy Week". The ordained ministers from West Side were invited to return to bring the messages.

1966

A number of personnel changes took place in 1966. Because of the congregation's love for and dependency upon Brother Ernie, the Board of Elders felt it necessary to remind the people of their obligation and responsibility in the acceptance and support of a new minister. In February the General Board extended a call to Brother Floyd Strater of Enid, Oklahoma, to be our Senior Minister. Brother Strater accepted the call and preached his first sermon on February 27. Brother Bill Scattergood resigned on March 11 to be the minister of the church at Moweaqua. In September the new principal of Christian Elementary School would be E. C. Redmond of Atlanta, Georgia. Also in September, Vaughn Beeman from the East Point Christian Church in East Point, Georgia, would be coming to West Side as our Youth Minister.

The spring revival was held from April 3 through 10 with Floyd Strater preaching. The Volunteers Quartet provided the music. Later in the year, a revival was held from November 13 to 18 with evangelist Luke Perrine preaching and Gladys Perrine as the song leader.

Since parking was becoming a serious problem at West Side, in April the congregation voted to purchase the properties at 916 and 920 West Cook Street to be converted for additional parking.

On September 9 the choir presented a cantata titled "Let The Earth Hear His Voice."

The "Crusaders For God" Loyalty Campaign began on September 25 for a ten-week period. The purpose of the campaign was to develop warmth, friendship and spiritual depth. At the completion of the loyalty campaign, West Side averaged 749 in Bible School, 834 in morning worship and 416 in evening service.

In an effort to assist our shut-ins who were unable to attend services at the church building, beginning in October, the morning worship services were being taped.

By November the buildings on Cook Street, which had been purchased to provide space for the new parking lot, had been removed from the site and bids received for the resurfacing of this area with rock. The use of rock would allow for settling and the parking lot would be blacktopped later. In the spring of the following year, three large automatic lights were installed.

In December arrangements were made with the Lincoln Cab Company to provide taxi service to transport those with a need to and from morning and evening worship services at no cost. This arrangement was set up on a two-month trial basis.

In 1966 offerings totaled $138,507.87; attendance in morning worship averaged 803; Bible School averaged 719; and evening services averaged 320.

1967

Evangelistic meetings were scheduled for March 19-26 with evangelist Glenn Bourne, President of St. Louis Christian College. The song evangelist was George King, head of the Music Department at Ozark Bible College.

In early 1967 a new building was proposed to house the Junior, Primary and Intermediate Departments. Also to be considered in the expansion was a chapel that would seat approximately 175 people, provide a bride's room, rest rooms and a cry room.

In May the North American Christian Convention rally was held at West Side with Palmer Young, the convention president of Louisville, Kentucky, speaking. Richard Hargrove directed the music.

The Women's Fellowship of West Side had a Women's Benevolent Rally in June sponsored by the Women's Auxiliary of the Lincoln Christian Nursing Home. The rally included an inspiring program and a luncheon. Monroe Street and Bunn Park Christian Churches were the guests.

Walter Goodman from Joplin, Missouri, and the head of the Goodman Church Builders, met with West Side board members on Sunday afternoon, July 14, to discuss plans for our new building.

In August, the parking lot on Cook Street was black topped and striped to provide parking for 92 cars. The total cost of this project including the three houses, their removal and the parking lot preparation totaled about $50,000. The amount of $32,000 was paid and the congregation anticipated liquidating the balance of this total project by the end of the year. This new parking lot was a tremendous help toward solving the parking problem.

Guys 'n Gals for God planned a trip to visit three missionaries and two churches in the Bahamas in 1968.

The Women's Fellowship of West Side sponsored a day of inspiration, fellowship and challenge for women in the area on September 21. Mrs. Lonnie Dever and Mrs. Melvin Bryant were the speakers.

A revival was conducted November 5 through 10 with Roy Blackmore, Minister of the East Tulsa Christian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as the evangelist, and the song leader was Martha Blackmore, daughter of former minister LaVerne Taylor.

The Men's Brotherhood held a prayer breakfast on Saturday in early November. Every man was urged to be present in order to have a part in a real spiritual experience. At that time the men were praying for individuals by name that should be making decisions for Christ. The men had talked to these individuals, taught them, and decided it was time to take their names to God in prayer.

In 1967 offerings totaled $159,443.75; attendance in morning worship averaged 821; Bible School averaged 693; and evening services averaged 300.

1968

In March a new program was inaugurated to help with the new members and the baptismal services. The Elders would help in receiving those who came forward to make decisions for Christ. If there were ladies to be baptized, the Elders' wives would assist in this. A worship center had been prepared in the baptismal area. After each person was baptized, the Elders would serve them their first communion and take time to explain the meaning of worship, faithfulness and the Lord's Supper. It was the responsibility of the Elders to follow up and shepherd every new convert to develop them to a mature faith in Christ.

On April 28 the West Side congregation voted unanimously to have the West Side name removed from the listing in the Disciples' Year Book. The necessary papers were sent and West Side received a confirmation from the yearbook office.

A Sunday evening radio program called "Sunday Night At West Side" was started in early July. This program was carried over WCVS at 7:00 p.m. Sunday evening and was anticipated that our shut-ins, sick and many outsiders would enjoy this added service.

A missionary banquet was held on September 13. The speaker was Phil Young, of St. Louis Christian College. Miss Vera Mushrush showed slides and lectured on the Bernel Getter family in India; Helen Swengel spoke to the women and Paul Bajko to the men; Bob Owens, student at the University of Illinois talked about campus ministry; and Lawrence Hallum from the Cookson Hills Home also spoke.

In September a new group was formed at West Side known as the College/Career group. This group began meeting at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Ed Foutch with 14 young adults present. Also, a New Couples Bible School class was started in November. This class met in the hallway west of the choir loft and was taught by Ed Ransford.

West Side always welcomed our missionaries to speak during services in order to keep us informed of their work. During the year 1968, we were blessed to have several share their experiences. Our congregation had voted to add the Winegarners as living link missionaries and increase our aid to them. We were happy to have Chuck and Nance Winegarner join us in February of 1968. Robert Smith, missionary in Brazil, spoke to us in late January 1969. Ziden Nutt from Chidamoyo, Rhodesia, was able to be with us on a Sunday evening in April. Exie Fults, missionary to Japan, spoke during services in June. A missionary conference was held in September with speakers Jerry Gibson of the campus ministry at the University of Illinois, and Don Meechem, missionary to Zambia.

Offerings in 1968 totaled $174,635.15; attendance in morning worship averaged 783; Bible School averaged 697; and evening services averaged 318.

1969

In March our Youth Minister, Vaughn Beeman, received a plaque from the Alumni Association of Lincoln Christian College in recognition of outstanding work with youth.

On March 7 the West Side congregation voted to purchase additional property in order to build a new Bible School building and on March 21 a special offering was taken toward the purchase of the neighboring lot.

During the evening service on December 14, Walter Goodman with the Goodman Church Builders came to West Side to present plans for the new building addition. Slides of the floor plan and design of the building were shown.

Offerings in 1969 totaled $180,407.81; attendance in morning worship averaged 825; Bible School averaged 676; and evening services averaged 289.

1970

At the beginning of the 1970s the ministers on staff were Floyd Strater, Charlie Lee and Vaughn Beeman. The attendance during the worship services averaged 741; there were 304 in the evening services and 680 in Bible School. Stewardship was as follows: General Fund $2,540.87; Building Fund $549.29; Christian Elementary School $722.52; Missions $485.12; and Bible School $155.25.

May 3 was an exciting day for West Side Christian Church because the ground breaking for the new education building took place. Following the groundbreaking ceremonies, the entire church family enjoyed dinner together at the St. Nicholas Hotel in downtown Springfield.

In the mid-1970s a group of mothers known as the "Mothers' Club" gathered every Wednesday morning at the church building. These ladies shared concerns about being wives and mothers after which they had Bible Study together. It was quality time just being together and sharing.

In June West Side had an opportunity to purchase an additional piece of property near our church building and voted in July to purchase this property. The house located at 919 West Cook Street was purchased for the amount of $25,000. The recommendation of the General Board was that the house be purchased paying $7,500 down. The church would continue to rent the apartments in the house and let it pay for itself until the balance could be paid and the house be removed for much needed parking.

In August the new swimming pool at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly was dedicated.

1971

February 12 was "Missionary Day" in our Bible School. All of the adult Bible School classes met in the worship auditorium to hear Ruth Smith who had been a missionary to the Philippines for the past 25 years.

In April the doors of the new educational building were opened and tours were scheduled. By mid-August the building was inspected by the State and evaluated for insurance purposes. As a result of the inspection, the value was set at $1,518,000. A total of 26 new teachers and helpers were recruited and ready to start working whenever we were ready to move into the new building. Then in September, ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held for this new education building. Mayor William Telford, Co-chairmen Jess Ray and Cliff Search, as well as Howard Shehorn cut the ribbon. Later in September, dedication services were held, and Orval Morgan was the speaker at both services.

1972

On April 2 the Bible School set a new record with a total of 1,221 in attendance. On April 3 a Bible School Victory Banquet was held with all teachers invited. Robert Wilson presented the message.

In May the General Board recommended the hiring of Calvin Forman to assist with the youth program as an Assistant Youth Minister. Mr. Forman graduated from Lincoln Christian College. While working on his M.A. degree at LCC, he would be spending four days a week working with the church and two days at school. Marcia, his wife, was also a graduate of Lincoln Christian College.

On May 12 an appeal was sent out for West Side members to join the Minuteman Committee. The program was started in 1964 with a group of people in central Illinois agreeing to contribute $5.00 each to help finance the building of new churches with the understanding there would be no more than two appeals per year. The appeal at that particular time was to help finance the church in Lincoln and to assist with the new church in Decatur the following spring. We were happy to report that Bible School classes were responding well to the new food pantry and it would soon be filled. This was another outreach program for the church. At a regular Board meeting in September, full consideration was given to starting a new ministry at West Side. This was a "Bus Ministry". Several men in the congregation made a trip to Hammond, Indiana to observe the largest such ministry in the country. It was the unanimous decision of the General Board to try such a ministry at West Side. The program started with four buses that could be rented for $15.00 a Sunday. This cost included the bus, gasoline and insurance. Different sections of the city were studied so that we could reach the most people who were not being reached for the Lord. We would be going into the mission fields within our own city. The program was scheduled to start on September 17. The congregation was asked to please be in prayer for this new venture. Serving on this committee were C. B. Green, Bill Taylor, Ed Ransford and Floyd Strater, in addition to the many captains and drivers involved. (By October it was reported that there were 147 riders taking part in this ministry.)

In September of 1972 a group of people from the T.N.T. Bible School class began organizing a Christian program of entertainment, which they named "Floyd's Follies." Floyd Strater was the teacher of the T.N.T. class at that time. Floyd's Follies was an entertaining program of Christian witness and joy. The group spent many hours planning and preparing this program and appeared before civic clubs, the new high rise apartment buildings, Lincoln Christian Nursing Home, the Dirksen House, McFarland Zone Center and state penitentiaries to mention a few, all in an effort to witness to those who were having problems and letting them know that Christ is the answer.

Also in September a new Bible School class was organized. This class would be a new adventure in the Bible School program — a long overdue class for people over age 25 and single. The class began meeting in the room just behind the narthex in the southwest corner. Vic Lankford was the new teacher and we felt fortunate to have him give assistance to this most vital ministry.

The adult choir, under the direction of Jewell Buck, presented the Christmas cantata "Messiah" on Sunday evening. Everyone was invited to the Christmas Eve communion services to enjoy the organ music and the live nativity scene and to partake of communion.

1973

A North American Christian Convention rally was held at West Side in April. The president of the convention, W. F. Lown, was the speaker; Red Florence led the music; Menard County Singers presented a few songs; and Jewell Buck directed the combined city choir. West Side had 47 people attending the NACC that year which was held in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In late June a thank you was received from Calvin Forman stating "Words cannot express our feeling as Marcia and I leave our ministry at West Side. We have come to love you in Christ. We thank God for the privilege of ministering with such outstanding men of God as Floyd, Charlie and Vaughn."

In October it was reported that an all-church fellowship supper would be held. It would also be a reception for our new secretary, Bonnie Duhon, and our new Assistant Youth Minister, Mike Bright. Floyd's Follies presented the program for the evening.

1974

Something good had come out of Washington! The congressional resolution proclaimed April 30, 1974 as National Day of Prayer.

Bringing Christ To The Deaf — This new deaf ministry began at West Side on May 19, 1974 with Bob Griffith preaching to the deaf; Carol Griffith leading songs; and Helen Van Meter playing the piano for any "hearing" people who might attend the services which met at 10:30 a.m. in the church parlor. Our members were asked to please be in prayer for this new venture.

At a special meeting in May, the General Board voted to start a new Christian Ministry. It was to be located in the parsonage formerly occupied by the Charlie Lee family. This ministry became known as the Fellowship House. The Fellowship House was a place for Bible study, fun, outreach and true Christian fellowship for young adults. Mike Bright and Steve Stewart began living in the house on June 1 and shortly thereafter Kirk Browning joined them.

Since 1974 and possibly before, a program was instituted known as G.T.O. (Go Tell Others). GTO was a specialized program for junior high students that used service projects, lessons, and other activities to build a community of students growing and impacting the world. The students and adults of GTO had fun, learned about Jesus, and continued to look for opportunities to do more for God in the Springfield area. GTO continued through the years.

In September a church secretary appreciation dinner was held for Bonnie Duhon who would be moving to Omaha, Nebraska. The new secretary, Kaye Swanson, was welcomed at that dinner.

1975

By January of 1975 the Bus Ministry continued to grow with 167 people taking advantage of this service.

On April 3 a Father/Son banquet was held with Jeff Hollenbeck, quarterback for the University of Illinois football team, as the speaker. (Father/Son banquets continued through the years.)

The Deaf Ministry was started in 1974 and in April of 1975 announcement was made that a new Bible School class was being started. West Side was pleased to announce that this would be the Deaf Ministry Bible School class.

In July, the Christian Elementary School Board and the General Board both approved the calling of Paul Stetler to be our new Minister of Music. Mr. Stetler would be spending half of his time working with the school and the other half working with the church. He would develop a graded choir program and work with special groups to better use the talents of our people.

In September a new ministry was added at West Side. The Springfield Manor and Oak Terrace Nursing Homes had expressed an interest in having church services. This was arranged and Brother Ed Ballard traveled to both nursing homes each Sunday to teach these Bible School classes.

After much planning and preparation, groundbreaking services were held in late September for the new Lewis Memorial Nursing Home. (Later in July 1977 the nursing home began taking residents. Then in November 1977 Administrator Ron Grover announced the dedication service and open house. Our church members were urged to attend this special day for the nursing home.)

October — A long-range plan of growth was in place for West Side and a piece of property located to the west, between the church building and the Fellowship House, became available and the congregation voted to purchase this property. It was felt that West Side had a spirit of vision; wanted to grow; was willing to sacrifice; and planned to reach more people for the Lord.

There was increasing interest in having a bell choir at West Side. Consequently, in October a special fund was established for the purchase of the hand bells. By December, the Bell Fund goal was reached and surpassed. Thus, we were able to purchase the hand bells, as well as additional equipment and music.

1976

Through the years West Side Christian Church had held revivals. Now something new was about to happen — our first Deaf Revival was to be held in March of 1976. Duane King was the evangelist and the Deaf Choir performed nightly.

The two houses located at 915 and 917 West Lawrence were sold at a public auction in June and would be removed within 45 days. This property would eventually be used to provide an additional parking lot for the church.

West Side Christian Church celebrated America's bicentennial. In July a "Bicentennial Day" was held at West Side. There were solos by Vicki McGuar, Sue Hilliard and Jane Larsson. The adult choir, youth choir and instrumental ensemble were also a part of the service.

Happy Birthday West Side Christian Church! In October the congregation celebrated its 75th birthday anniversary with four great services. Special Sundays were designated in honor of four of our previous ministers. The ministers honored were Laverne Taylor, Orval Morgan, Rueben Anderson and Ernie Laughlin. The church members rejoiced at having the opportunity to celebrate this existence of West Side for 75 years.

In November, another staff person was added at West Side. Judy Bowden was welcomed to the position of our Financial Secretary.

1977

On February 11 it was reported that $62,115.61 had been raised for the Lewis Memorial Nursing Home. West Side had previously pledged $50,000, but surpassed that goal.

The second annual Deaf Revival was held for three nights during the month of March. Brother Harold Noe was the evangelist for these services.

In May it was reported that Dora Briles would be leaving West Side as our church secretary to be the church secretary at the Englewood Church in Indianapolis. Then in June, we had a new secretary in the church office. Sally Neisler (later Miller) was a graduate of Lincoln Christian College, and she was welcomed as a part of our church staff.

There was much excitement about the hand bell program at West Side. In June the four bell choirs presented a full concert, and by August there were 58 people involved in the hand bell program.

In October the congregation approved the purchase of the houses located at 928 West Edwards Street and 923 West Cook Street. This was just another indication of the positive and long-range thinking of the congregation. These two houses immediately adjoined the church property to the west. This would allow us more space closer to the building where it was needed.

In November another special day was celebrated at West Side known as "Jewell Buck Day". This special day was to honor Jewell Buck for her 25 years of faithful service to the church in many areas, especially as Choir Director. A reception honoring her was held in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the evening services.

At the end of December, the West Side congregation was informed that Floyd Strater, Senior Minister for the last 12 years, had accepted a call to the Knott Avenue Christian Church in Anaheim, California. He would be with us for only another two months.

1978

On February 19 West Side honored the Strater family with a reception and all area churches were invited to attend. This was their last Sunday with the West Side congregation.

During the years Floyd Strater served as Senior Minister of West Side Christian Church, there were 783 people baptized and 632 transferred their membership to the West Side congregation.

In March members of the congregation welcomed Vaughn Beeman to be our new Senior Minister. Vaughn had previously served as our Youth Minister and Christian Education Minister.

In April the adult choir, under the direction of Paul Stetler, presented a concert titled "Alleluia." At that time there were 50 voices in the adult choir.

The three services at the end of year concluded with a hand bell Christmas concert with all five hand bell choirs participating; an adult musical by the adult choir titled "Love Reaching"; and the annual communion service on Christmas Eve.

1979

In February the first meeting of the West Side Christian Church Shepherds Club was held. This was a group of retired men whose ministry was to help others. They would provide transportation, do yard work, or other items that needed done for those who were unable to do for themselves.

In August there were more property transactions. The property located at 932 West Edwards Street was purchased for the amount of $60,000.00. That property was adjacent to the existing church property and the General Board recognized its potential for future church expansion. The property located at 546 South State Street was owned by the church and no longer being occupied by the church or school. The General Board agreed to sell this property to Mike Bright for the amount of $30,000.00. Of this amount, $20,000.00 was to be applied toward the purchase of the Edwards Street property and $10,000.00 going to reduce our indebtedness at the Illinois National Bank.

1980

The spring revival was held in February. A men's choir was organized to sing at this revival with about 25 men volunteering to participate.

A new Young Couples Bible School class was formed. This new class was scheduled to meet the first Sunday in March in the south end of the All Purpose Room. The teachers for this class were George and Rosanne Elder.

The first Book Fair was held at West Side on April 20. The Berean Book Store set up a book display at the south entrance of the building. Books could be bought for the church library and the buyer had the opportunity to be the first to read them.

In May we were informed of the death of Ernie Laughlin who had been the Senior Minister at West Side from 1945 to 1965. He had endured a long illness.

May 28, Mike Bright resigned as our Youth Minister to accept the position of Associate and Youth Minister of the Southeast Christian Church in Orlando, Florida. Mike would be bringing the message in the evening service with a reception in his honor to follow in the Fellowship Hall.

In September the congregation voted to hire Jim Littlejohn as our Youth Minister. Brother Littlejohn came to us from the Greenville Christian Church. Also in September, after serving as interim Principal, Charlie Lee was named the Principal of Christian Elementary School.

A Hand Bell Festival was held on November 14 and 15. Donald Allured from Birmingham, Alabama, directed the closing concert with three of our bell choirs participating.

December — The Shepherd's Club continued to serve those in need. A Shepherd's Club breakfast was served to all of these volunteers as well as to the preachers. All retired men of the church were invited to attend.

1981

May — It was joyfully announced "That's Incredible Day" was an enormous success. This special day was originally designated as a day in which the congregation would be conducting a calling program to invite people to our Bible School. The Bible School goal for that day was set at 1,000 and after count was taken, there were 1,082 people in attendance.

In December, Paul Stetler unveiled his dream and goal of a Living Christmas Tree at West Side. Paul, Valerie and Sid Fox traveled to Lexington, Kentucky, to visit the Southland Christian Church to attend their Living Christmas Tree program. A great deal of preparation was necessary for the planning and construction of this tree. Our own Emil Cook prepared the plans for and directed the construction of the tree. The first Living Christmas Tree program was held on December 11 through 13 with a total of five performances. This was the beginning of our Living Christmas Tree program with presentations continuing annually.

Choirs started by Paul Stetler included Celebration Singers (high school), Alleluia Ringers (high school), Junior Celebration Singers (6-8 grades), Jubilee Ringers (6-8 grades), Joy Singers (3-5 grades), Joy Ringers I (3-5 grades), Joy Ringers II (4-5 grades), Christian Chimers (Adult), Golden Bells (Adult), and Fellowship House Singers (College/Career). In March 1986 the Junior Celebration Singers (Junior High choir) was renamed Precious Promise. Later in 1986 Paul Stetler challenged the U & I Class with the possibility of having a Senior Adult Choir. This Senior Adult Choir became known as "The Golden Tones." Also in 1986 a new group, "Sounds Alive" (Band/Orchestra), was organized and all members who played instruments were encouraged to participate.

The Celebration Singers and Alleluia Ringers traveled to the Deep South in central Florida for two weeks in June with their program "Maybe Today". In November the Celebration Singers and Alleluia Ringers performed the "Festival of Praise" directed by Rich Cole, the Music Intern from Lincoln Christian College. This group of young people continued traveling and performing for several years.

1982

March 28 through 31 were the dates of the spring crusade. Ken Idleman, President of Ozark Bible College, Joplin, Missouri, was the speaker each evening and the song evangelist was Joe Wright from Wanchula, Florida.

The first Ladies' Retreat was held in July at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Kay Watts, former missionary to Zambia, was the speaker. A music group known as Shekinah, which included our own Annie Stewart, led the music. (Ladies' Retreats continued.)

After two surveys, years of meetings with the Long Range Planning Committee, Elders meetings and General Board meetings, a meeting was held on September 12 to inform the entire congregation of planning ahead in order to do a more effective job of carrying out the Great Commission in such a manner that our Sunday morning average would reach at least 1,200 by the year 1990 and 1,500 by the year 2000.

1983

In the spring of 1983, many church members contributed toward the purchase of a 5-octave set of hand bells. Suggestion had been made that contributions could be made toward the bell fund as memorials for those who had passed on. The bells were needed and this would be a lasting memorial.

A group of ladies known as "Mothers' Together" met together on Wednesday mornings. This was a continuation of the originally group known as "Mothers Club" which was formed in the 1970s to share praises; request prayers for family and friends; and for Bible study. Mothers Together was originally led by Cindy Lash and Annie Stewart.

A mini-Ladies' Day was held in March with the theme, "An Excellent Woman - Who Can Be?" Later in August, the second annual Ladies' Retreat was held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Brenda Edgar, wife of the Governor, and Diana Seaman were the main speakers with music by the group Shekinah.

In June the Personnel Committee, Board of Elders and General Board made a recommendation for the hiring of Cindy Lash for the newly created position of Director of the Pre-School Department. It was the feeling of the Personnel Committee that Cindy possessed several unique talents that equipped her to meet the goals of this position. One of the major tasks of the Director of Pre-School Ministries was to survey the congregation regarding a Christian Day Care Center, which eventually was established in June 1984.

The North American Christian Convention was held in St. Louis from July 26 through 29. Floyd Strater was the President of the convention that year.

In August the Long Range Planning Committee recommended to the General Board that the church purchase the property at 927 West Lawrence and the Board approved the purchase. The purchase price was $54,900 and had an assumable loan of $47,000 at 8.75 percent. Payments were $509.00 per month. At that time, the property was being leased to the State of Illinois Aid to Retarded Children for $425.00 per month, and the church planned to continue with the lease.

The Long Range Planning Committee had previously conducted a detailed study of our existing facility. One of the hindrances of growth identified in the study was a shortage of parking, and it was recommended that our current parking be re-evaluated to maximize parking on our existing property. As a result, it was the decision of the General Board to remove the old Fellowship House, located at 909 West Lawrence, which had originally been purchased at the recommendation of the Long Range Planning Committee for future parking. It was hoped this would ease the parking problem for the time being.

In September the Area Christian Men's Fellowship held their meeting at the Heritage House Restaurant. The speaker was Luke Perrine and his wife, Gladys, was the song leader.

1984

The Christian Day Care Center became a reality in June of 1984. The Day Care opened with Kim Moore as the Director. The first Board of Directors were: Jim Manes, Chairman; Jim Eichenberger, Vice Chairman; Ollie Stewart, Treasurer; Becky Crawford, Secretary, and Cindy Lash, Assistant Secretary. The mission of the Christian Day Care Center was to provide superior quality care for each child enrolled with a Christ-centered, love-motivated, well-structured program.

June 10 was designated "Glory Day" and a goal was set in the amount of $83,000 to pay for new pews, organ, carpet, tile and drapes for the sanctuary. Later in October of that same year, dedication services were held for our remodeled sanctuary.

The Fellowship House celebrated its 10th anniversary on October 21. This ministry was started under the direction of the West Side Elders and leadership from Steve Stewart.

The Samuel Music Company, from whom our new organ had been purchased, hosted three recitals at West Side. The first recital on October 14 featured Paul Oakley, Music Director/Organist at the First Presbyterian Church in Springfield. The second concert was held on November 3, which was an organ workshop with Paul Oakley. The third was held on November 11 which was a concert featuring Harold DeCou.

In October, West Side held a Missions Fair "Go Ye Into All The World" and the special speaker was Dr. Orval Morgan of Phoenix, Arizona, a former minister at West Side.

1985

The first Easter musical/drama titled "I AM" was held at West Side on March 30 and 31 under the direction of Paul Stetler. The cast was under the direction of Sue Hilliard, the orchestra under the direction of Susan Wells, the stage and sets under the direction of Barb Howard, and costuming under the direction of Jane Claytor. Kirk Sewell portrayed Jesus. This was a long-anticipated production and came together in a fantastic way. Many people worked hard and long, all to the glory of the great I AM.

Also in May the Joyful Noise, Music Makers and JOY Singers presented the "Music Machine Part II". Later in November, JOY Singers and Music Makers presented "Hark The Herald Angel".

"30 Pieces of Silver" was a special project to help Lincoln Christian College. The project at West Side began on April 28 and continued through June 2. The 30 pieces of silver Judas collected were because of greed, but West Side wanted to turn our gift into a love expression for Lincoln Christian College. The goal was for 800 people to save 25-cents per day for 30 days. This would mean $7.50 per person, resulting in $6,000 for the total project. Every member of the family was encouraged to help, thus teaching even children to give.

In May, West Side regretfully accepted the resignation of Paul Stetler as he was taking a position with the Music Department at Ozark Bible College in Joplin, Missouri. In June, approval was given to hire Tracy Schumann as the new Music Minister to replace Paul. Tracy and his wife, Stephanie, were expected to arrive in August at which time West Side planned a food shower for them.

1986

The West Side Christian General Board voted at its May 13 meeting to affirm in principle the concept of relocating the church to a new site and building new facilities on adequate acreage. On June 1 the plan was presented to the congregation. The relocation project had raised sincere questions and it was the desire of the committee to try to answer these questions. Consequently, a question/answer session was scheduled for Sunday, July 27 in the Fellowship Hall. A 24-hour congregation prayer vigil was conducted. The church body was prayerfully requesting that God reveal his will to us and that the church family proceed in unity. An extremely close vote caused the Elders to delay relocation plans. However, because of the Elders' concern over the rapidly approaching time when our present facilities would prevent additional growth, the Eldership still felt relocation to be the ultimate direction. Meanwhile, plans were underway to improve our facilities in order to provide additional Bible School classes and space, provide for additional worship service capacity and increase parking. Also, the Long Range Planning Committee was authorized to investigate the availability, price and suitability of possible relocation sites. Nevertheless, it would be the decision of the Elders, General Board and congregation to relocate. Since the relocation plans were deferred, plans were underway to maximize the use of our facility to allow continued growth for as long as possible. Later in November of 1986 the back wall between the sanctuary and the narthex was removed in order to provide more seating area in the sanctuary.

The General Board approved the hiring of Gary Winkleman, to be our new Singles' Minister. He would be arriving in August. In December, Mike Harney from Ozark Christian College became a full-time music intern for six months. His wife, Julia, was also active in music with a special interest in drama.

On October 4 the first Ladies' Rally was held. The speaker, June Beeman, challenged the ladies to be "The Victorious Woman". She was an author, lecturer, writer, dramatist, puppeteer, former Women's Director for KSTF-TV, and at that time Director for Foster Grandparent Program for the Federal Government. (She was married to Vaughn's brother, Elwood.)

In November of 1986, West Side was given a wonderful opportunity to purchase an option on some property located at 2850 Cider Mill Lane on the west side of town. The option period for the 39.54 acres was three years. The option price was $30,000 (This full amount was available in the Capital Reserve Fund). The congregation was given the privilege of voting on this option on March 1, 1987, and approved the purchase. Total cost would be $300,000 (or $7,587 per acre), including the original nonrefundable option price payment. The owner of the Cider Mill property, Mrs. Britz, currently resided in a house on the northeast corner of the property. There was a special provision — if the church purchased the property, Mrs. Britz would be permitted to rent the house and 2 acres of surrounding land for up to four years beyond the three-year option period. (A total of up to seven years from the date that the option was signed.)

1987

In March our own Sally Miller received the Restoration Award from Lincoln Christian College. Each year the award is given to alumni who had given outstanding service in full time church ministry.

The spring crusade was held April 5 through 8. The evangelist was Paul Carrier from Fayetteville, Georgia, and the song evangelist was Byron Cartwright, Head of the Music Department at Cincinnati Bible College.

In order to assist with the parking situation, a new "Park and Ride" program was started in May whereby church members could park their vehicles at the Stratton Office Building parking lot located at the corner of College and Edwards Streets and ride the shuttle bus to the church building. This program was very successful, with as many as 53 cars parked in the Stratton Office Building lot at one time, and more people were urged to use this shuttle system.

Here We Grow Again! The leadership voted to add another worship hour beginning September 13. This was another giant step forward to ensure further growth at West Side. The congregation was asked to accept it as a challenge and remember that the key words to this new venture were flexibility and cooperation. The new times of services were 8:00, 9:20 and 10:40. The Bible School classes met during the first two services, and the children's church services were held during the first and third. This arrangement worked out smoothly with the transition in fine fashion.

On October 4 a Chinese family, Benjamin and Eilian Tang, placed their membership with the West Side family. They started a Chinese Bible Study that met on Friday evenings at West Side.

In a letter to the congregation toward the end of this year, Vaughn Beeman stated that in evangelism it was our best year. As of that time of the year we had 220 answer the invitation; gone to three worship services; instigated the Shuttle Bus Program; The Chinese Bible Study was exciting; the Living Christmas Tree presentations were being held with approximately 8,000 people expected to see it; Christian Elementary School was growing; and the Singles Ministry has surpassed all projections in just over a year's time. He challenged the church members to DON'T QUIT!

1988

In March, Wayne Smith, Minister of Southland Christian Church in Lexington, Kentucky, was our guest speaker and his sermon title was "Playing Hurt", which dealt with growth and relocation. Later in March the congregation voted for and approved a relocation plan as well as approving the purchase of 39.54 acres of land at Cider Mill Lane and Veterans Parkway designated as the site for the new church building complex.

May — The newly formed Building Committee consisted of nine members: Chairman, Emil Cook; Vice Chairman, Dale Sachtleben; Finance Subcommittee Chairman, Bill Taylor; Education Subcommittee Chairman, Warren Knoles; School Subcommittee Chairman, Jim Manes; Fellowship Subcommittee Chairman, Don Yutzy; Worship Subcommittee Chairman, David Gates; Music Subcommittee Chairman, Bruce Jacobson; and Administrative Subcommittee Chairman, Jim McKay. The 99 members of the Subcommittees had their first meeting of challenge on September 17.

In August letters were sent to 17 architectural firms requesting statements of qualifications. By November the Building Committee had spent approximately 20-25 hours interviewing six architects for the selection of one in November. In September 1988 Patti Austin established the "Broken Promise" ministry. Broken Promise was a divorce recovery ministry to children facilitated by volunteers who had received training in working with children of divorce. Broken Promise was a growing ministry developed at West Side. Patti Austin prepared all of the material for this program and the church was grateful to her for utilizing her talents in this way. It should be noted that in addition to the ministry at West Side, 21 churches including three in England were facilitating the Broken Promise ministry in their churches and reaching out into their communities. Patti had been requested to speak at conventions and at community organizations on the ministry, the crisis of divorce, and the breakdown of the family. Broken Promise sessions continued through the years.

Another ministry started in 1988 was "New Beginnings". This program was designed to run concurrently with Broken Promise and was a program developed for the single parent whose children were attending Broken Promise. In New Beginnings the parent learned how divorce affected their children and how they could help. This ministry continued through the years.

Also in September, a fellowship group known as Charlie's "Angels" was formed. This group was composed of adults from the various seniors' Bible School classes — U & I, Beau Knots, Ladies/Boosters and T.N.T. The name for this group came from the staff member assigned to the Seniors Ministry, Charlie Lee. Thus, Charlie's Angels became their name. Meeting date for this group was the fourth Thursday of each month, excluding November (Thanksgiving) and sometimes December (depending on the date of Christmas). A typical outline for a meeting would be a social coffee time; a program including a sing-along, devotion and speaker; and then everyone enjoying lunch together. This social proved to be a much looked forward to social for the senior adults and much credit was given to Charlie for organizing each meeting and planning and preparing the lunch for nearly 100 seniors.

In November it was announced that Doug Laird of Church Stewardship Ministries, Fort Worth, Texas, would be conducting our stewardship program, beginning January 15. The architect had also been selected who was David Miller, of Orange, California. Mr. Miller had strong qualifications in church architecture.

Gary Winkleman preached in the evening service on December 19. He was leaving West Side and relocating in the state of Washington. Following the evening service, a farewell reception was given in his honor.

1989

The leaders in the financial campaign known as "Building Lives for Christ" were chosen. Campaign Director Bill Lash announced that the stewardship campaign had set a goal of $2,500,000.00. The campaign included many promotional meetings and at the climax of the campaign, an all-church banquet was held at the Holiday Inn on Sunday, April 30. The total commitment to the Building Fund of $2,624,855.00 was announced in the victory celebration during morning worship services on May 14.

Effective June 4 a college/career group known as the "New Beginnings" started meeting in the Teen House. Vick and Sandy Lankford and Jim and Nancy McKay were sponsors of this group.

In June, The Lutheran Retirement Association contacted West Side with an opportunity to purchase 7.37 acres of land which they owned adjacent to our property on the west side of Veterans Parkway.

On September 24 our new Singles Minister, Kip Knavel from Indiana, preached in the morning worship services.

An informational meeting was held on November 19 giving a "Building Lives for Christ" update. A total of $405,075.00 of the commitments had been received.

At the close of 1989, the total giving to the budget was $920,392.00 plus $542,031.00 toward the Building Fund for a total of $1,462,423.00.

1990

The Women's Fellowship salad supper buffet was held in early March with the theme "Make a Joyful Noise." The singing group from Springfield High School known as the Seven & Senators presented special music, and Jay Beeman gave a devotional message.

The Bible School continued to expand and in March, three new Bible School classes were started: New Married Couples, Single Again, and a Six Months Old Nursery class.

In March the property at Cider Mill was purchased from the Britz family. Then in July an additional 7.37 acres were purchased from the Lutheran Retirement Association. Completion of the design and construction of our new facilities was anticipated to take approximately three years.

The spring crusade was held from March 25 through 28 with Paul Carrier preaching and the Heavenbound Quartet singing (Tracy Schumann, Vic Lankford, Kent Hill, and Bob Smith) with Cindy Lash as accompanist.

On April 20 the Christian League for the Handicapped presented an "Evening of Song." Our own Stan Baker, Sue Hilliard and Bob White participated along with several others. A free will offering was received for the Christian League for the Handicapped.

A "Building Lives for Christ" 12-hour prayer vigil was conducted on April 28. Our members were encouraged to participate and the full 12-hour period was filled with prayer. After one year, the "Building Lives For Christ" update was as follows: Total income $668,343.00; average per month, $55,695.00; average per week $13,105.00; memorial gifts $1,535.50; and property sales $38,606.00— "Not Equal Gifts, But Equal Sacrifice!"

On May 13 the Celebration Singers and Alleluia Ringers presented a concert titled "First Things First" through music, testimonies, slides, and God's word. These young people were reminding us there is only ONE who deserves first place in our lives.

West Side received a big "thank you" for the special offering received and sent to Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. The money was used to insulate the chapel. Thanks was extended to Paul Hurley for coordinating the job; the Beau Knot Class workers who helped install windows in the chapel; and the many volunteers who helped prepare for the camping season. The first section of the boat dock was completed and in use; the boys' dorm received new windows; curtains, sinks, countertops and shower stalls were installed; vinyl siding was put on the pool pump house; a new coat of paint on the pool; a new basketball goal for younger campers; and 140 trees were planted around the grounds. Most exciting and most important was the pre-registration of 709, which was a total of 36 over last year.

On June 3 the Reflections youth choir presented "It's Cool in the Furnace", which was a musical on the conviction and courage of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego to follow God no matter what! Directors of this group were Mary Florence and Becky Minick.

In August a mobile classroom for Christian Elementary School was placed on the parking lot adjacent to the Teen Building. Space for this mobile unit would utilize approximately 14 parking spaces so the congregation was urged to take advantage of the shuttle bus service by parking cars at the Stratton Office Building parking lot and using the shuttle bus to get to the church building.

September — The congregation cast a very positive vote to approve the projected budget of $8,800,000.00 for our new church facility.

There were some exciting staff changes/reassignments. Cindy Lash assumed the position of Director of Christian Education and Shepherding on October 1, 1990. She would be directing the entire Bible School Program. Also on October 1, 1990, Patti Austin assumed the position of Director of the Pre-School Department. The Broken Promise Program would remain under her leadership. Charlie Lee assumed more of the administrative role. He would continue to minister to the seniors; the development and integration of our new members; and direct our shut-in and visitation ministry. Jim Littlejohn, Tracy Schumann, and Kip Knavel assumed further responsibility in assisting our hospital and shut-in visitation ministry.

The congregation was invited to attend the annual Christmas Eve candlelight communion service. In the quiet atmosphere of Christmas music, families and individuals would gather to remember the goodness of God in sending His Son into the world.

1991

THE FIRST TEN FOR 1991 — It can be — should be — will be — our best year ever! Church members were asked to (1) set aside the first 10 minutes of every day for Bible reading; (2) list 10 friends to pray for; (3) give the tithe a try (10% of their income) for 10 weeks; and (4) make it a priority goal not to miss the first 10 worship services.

In January the Singles Ministry began a new direction. New Beginnings, Single Again and Singles for Christ combined to try something new. New format, cell study groups, great direction for the new year!

A 12-hour prayer vigil was held on May 4 for the "Building Lives For Christ" campaign. In June it was announced that commitments and recommitments for Building Lives For Christ totaled $112,596.00.

The Celebration Singers' concert under the direction of Tracy Schumann was held on June 9 followed by a farewell reception for the Schumanns in Fellowship Hall.

The Rock River Singles Retreat was held June 21-23 with our own Kip Knavel speaking on "A Royal Priesthood". Also at the retreat Larry Bryant had a concert along with the great lineup of workshops.

Robert Morse, our missionary to Thailand, was the speaker in worship services on June 30. The Morse family had long been serving in the mission field in Thailand, Burma, Tibet and China. Mrs. J. Russell Morse, Robert's mother, was a living link missionary from West Side for over fifty years.

The North American Christian Convention was held July 9 - 12 in Denver, Colorado. Patti Austin presented her Broken Promise program in a workshop at the convention. Broken Promise would be starting its seventh session in September.

A positive vote was taken for hiring Jim Howard as the new Music Minister. Jim grew up at West Side and graduated from Manhattan Christian College with a degree in music.

In September a "Jim Howard Reception" was held following evening services to officially welcome him. In September another new Bible School class was formed at West Side. "Becoming One" was established for engaged couples and newlyweds.

Our Youth Minister, Jim Littlejohn, announced the first P.I.E. night during youth hour on September 29. This special program was Parent Information Evening and Jim requested this meeting be noted and attended.

In October a special offering was taken for the Beemans (Jay and Diane) in Zaire, Africa. Due to the very tense political situation, all of the African Christian Mission missionaries were forced to evacuate. The Beemans were reported safe in Burundi, but living expenses were very expensive.

The first class of "Growing Through Grief' was held in the fall of 1991 and since that time over 200 individuals benefited from the program. Growing Through Grief was a support ministry for anyone losing a loved one in death, and it was not limited to West Side members only. This ten-week program would take the individual from early stages of grief through various steps providing information that would help them understand their feelings and give them tools needed to move through their grief toward healing. This program was based on the premise that God understands and cares, and He desires for us to reach out to Him. Growing Through Grief was a continuing program.

Church members were asked to please be in prayer about a special day set aside as "Tithing Demonstration Day". Every member was asked to try to tithe for this week in the month of November.

1992

In January our teens met for the first time in their newly remodeled Teen House facility with 41 young people present. It was noted that the first comments heard by a teen at entering the Teen House New Year's Eve party was "Wow, this is neat..." followed by, "Hey, wipe your feet!" What an appropriate response to a valuable possession ... RESPECT! Cindy Lash and many others had overseen a good work in the Teen House.

February — Thank God for parking problems! The church parking lot was filled and church members again were urged to take advantage of the shuttle bus service. The goal was to have 80 cars parked at the Stratton Office Building lot each Sunday. Then one week later, we were informed that 118 vehicles had utilized the Stratton Building lot.

Sunday March 1, marked the beginning of the new class "College Connection". Jim Meyer taught this new Bible School class.

March 29, 1992, was Youth Night lead by the high schoolers. A special offering was taken for their trip to Mexico. Fifteen teens along with six sponsors would be serving in Mexico in June.

In March the State Board of Health informed the Camp Board that the boys' dorm must be updated or the camp would not be permitted to open for the coming season. All the churches in the area planned on taking special offerings for this cause. (It was noted that there was a tremendous response toward the remodeling project, and the offering from West Side totaled $3,251.66!)

March- The VIP ministry at West Side meant Volunteer Involvement Program! There were many things that the church members would assist with, such as cleaning, yard work, maintenance, repairs, waxing, cleaning carpets, etc.! A note of thanks was extended to all those who signed up to help.

The final performance of Floyd's Follies, which was presented by members of the T.N.T. Bible School class, was to be held on March 2 in the church sanctuary. Everyone was invited.

For the past two and a half years, Kip Knavel had served as our Singles Minister. On May 1 Kip submitted his letter of intent to search for a preaching ministry. He felt that God had laid upon his heart the challenge to preach full time. A farewell reception for Kip and Barb was later held on July 12.

The spring crusade was held on May 5 and May 12 with Charles McNeeley, President of Lincoln Christian College preaching, Dick Martinie leading the singing and special music by a group from Lincoln Christian College known as "Majesty."

Our three-year commitment for the "Building Lives For Christ" campaign ended in May. However, the congregation was asked to maintain their giving to "Building Lives for Christ" known as the "Second Mile Campaign." The selling of our present building had not yet been finalized, but prayerfully that would soon become a reality.

In June the Lake Springfield Christian Assembly Board thanked all of the men who had helped to modernize the boys' dorm. Special thanks was extended to Paul Hurley and Tom Varnes for all their "extra" hours volunteered in repairing the boys' dorm and annex.

Commitments to the "Second Mile Campaign" continued to grow. Not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice! The grand total given during the first ten Sundays of the" Second Mile Campaign" totaled $120,650.00.

Upon the recommendation of the Singles Ministry, an invitation was extended to have Gary Winkleman return as our Singles Minister. The Singles Ministry hosted an all-church reception following the evening worship services on July 9 to welcome back Gary and Jarielle Winkleman.

In July the congregation approved the construction and financing plans for the new facility. The General Board authorized the Trustees to issue contracts to begin construction of the new church building. Also approved was the sale of the existing church building to the Public Building Commission for $2,000,000.00, for use by Springfield School District 186.

In August Julie Simmons became the Director of Early Childhood Ministry.

Highest Praise and the Golden Tones participated in the fifteenth year anniversary celebration at Lewis Memorial Christian Village on September 20.

Our Youth Minister resigned in October after twelve great years at West Side. Jim Littlejohn accepted the Youth Ministry in Clovernook Christian Church, in Cincinnati, Ohio. We wished him well. Later in the month there was a farewell reception for the Littlejohns in the evening service. Testimonies were given and words of appreciation were expressed from people representing various areas of their ministry. A retiring love offering was taken for the Littlejohns at the close of all three morning worship services.

On November 13 the Singles' first dinner theater was held. A great evening was enjoyed by all with food, fun and fellowship. The theme for the evening was "laughter" and West Side provided the entertainment talent!

1992 was our best year ever! The a.m. worship attendance was 1,298; p.m. attendance was 457 and Bible School had 946 in attendance. There were 191 additions and stewardship giving totaled $1,625,152.00.

1993

"Women in Study" resumed on January 20 with a very special Bible Study on "The Chosen Twelve." Vaughn Beeman had written this series several years earlier and agreed to teach it to the ladies. "Women in Study" was a continuation of the original groups known as "Mothers Club" and then "Mothers Together." The ladies met for sessions biannually for the purpose of sharing praises; requesting prayers for family, friends and other concerns which needed to be taken to God in prayer; and to study scriptures together under the leadership of Cindy Lash.

In February Don Soard became our new Youth Minister. Both Don and Shelley Soard were graduates of Ozark Christian College and they had an 18-month-old daughter, Somer.

HERE WE GO AGAIN! In July 1960 West Side Christian Church had moved its services to the Hay Edwards Elementary School building while our new church building was being constructed. So here we go again! This time West Side's church services were moved to Springfield High School while we again built a new church building. Much appreciation was given to School District 186 for allowing the church to conduct their worship services at the high school building. Bible School classes were conducted in the school's classrooms followed by one worship service! The auditorium of Springfield High School was large enough to accommodate the West Side church family with only one service.

September 15 — Gym Roof Goes On! Progress continued on Cider Mill Lane as we watched with anticipation the erection of our new church building.

Our new church building was becoming a reality. On May 16 our Bible School and worship service were moved to Springfield High School. In September Christian Elementary School and the Christian Day Care Center would move to the educational wing of our new facility. Prayerfully, it was anticipated that our worship center would be ready for occupancy by May of 1994.

In October a new men's chorus named "Faithful Men" under the direction of Rod and Bonnie Latta, was being organized. Practice for this group was to be held in the Springfield High School choir room at 5:00 p.m. on Sundays.

On November 7 West Side honored Cindy Lash with a surprise reception in celebration of her ten years on staff at West Side.

1994

January 9, 1994, was designated as "New Beginnings Day". The a.m. worship service featured Highest Praise; a special drama introducing the forgiveness of God; the sermon titled "God Offers a New Beginning"; a piano duet by Jim Claytor and Jim Howard; and the adult choir. Ministry tables were set up in the cafeteria and refreshments were served. Everyone was asked to bring a friend.

Also in January a new Men's Ministry was being organized at West Side Christian Church focusing on providing the men of the church with Bible Study, fellowship, and Christian Service. The men met on the fourth Saturday of each month at 7:30 a.m. with a prayer breakfast, devotional/fellowship time and benevolence projects. The first meeting of this group was held at Shoney's restaurant with devotions and Bible Study led by Vaughn Beeman.

On March 27 our evening service was held at Westminster Presbyterian Church. West Side was grateful to the other Springfield churches for helping us during the transition period.

Brant and Michelle Perrigo, the Children's Ministry intern, arrived at West Side toward the end of May. Brant would soon graduate from Ozark Christian College. His responsibilities were in the Children's Department under the leadership of Don Soard.

Jim Howard resigned as our Music Minister effective June 26, 1994, to take a position with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the Chicago area. We wished him well with his new occupation.

On August 6 our high school young people left for CIY or BUST (Christ In Youth) Trip to Bolivar, Missouri. Included in the group were 49 high school students and 9 sponsors. The theme of the Christ In Youth conference that year was "Shake the Walls - of Confusion, of Loneliness, and of Doubt."

The Fellowship House Ministry originated in 1974. In August of 1994 they celebrated their twentieth year with a reunion held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Those people who were ever involved with the Fellowship House were invited to attend to visit and reminisce.

The General Board voted unanimously to create a full time Children's Minister position and recommended that Brant Perrigo be selected to fill that position.

1995

In order to eliminate additional mortgage expenses, the church-owned properties at 927 West Lawrence and 924 West Edwards were put up for sale in January. It was anticipated that the year 1995 would be our final year of transition. A new beginning at a new location!

In January the General Board approved the hiring of Mike Harney as our Music Minister. Mike had previously served as our music intern in 1987. Mike and his wife, Julia, were both graduates of Ozark Christian College. They were parents of two children, Daniel and Joel.

"Women in Study" began their spring session at the Temple Israel from January 18 through April 5. The study was of New Testament characters. Again, West Side appreciated the assistance from others to our congregation during our transition period.

"Friends of the Library Day" was held on Memorial Day Sunday. Special flowers were on display on the stage and church members were offered the opportunity of giving a $5.00 contribution in memory of a loved one. The donations were used to help equip our new library at the Cider Mill location.

On June 15 the church members were invited to attend a congregational meeting. The purpose of this meeting was to provide information and challenge for the upcoming stewardship campaign to fulfill our financial responsibility for the new church building. At the meeting held in the gym at Cider Mill, our people had the opportunity to meet with consultant Jim Runyon of Resources Services, Inc. in Dallas, Texas.

A new ministry was launched in the fall of 1995. David Shelton, a professional dramatist from the state of Washington, led a Drama Ministry Seminar. Mr. Shelton gave a full-length dramatic program on Sunday, August 6. Anyone interested in being on a drama team for adults or high school was urged to attend this seminar and program.

Vacation Bible School was held August 7-11 at the partially completed Cider Mill site. This was the first year West Side began holding VBS in the evening (6:00 to 8:30 p.m.)

On September 16 a "Thank You Potluck and Party" was held for Jesse and Sue Meyer in honor of their sponsorship of the Fellowship House. The Fellowship House Ministry was started in 1974. Jesse and Sue faithfully served as sponsors to these young adults for many years and were very much loved and appreciated. Anyone ever affiliated with the Fellowship House was encouraged to bring pictures and stories of his/her experiences to share that evening.

The first Area Wide Junior High Overnighter was held on September 16 and 17 with 186 junior high school students (53 from West Side), 205 with sponsors, from six area Christian churches. Thanks to Larry and Betsy Lewis, Cathy Elmore, Matt Cockrell and Maripat Cline for helping with the overnighter.

September 22 - 23 was the fall Ladies Retreat. "In My Life Lord. Be Glorified" was the theme for the retreat held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. Nadine Reed was the main speaker and the worship leader was Kelley Bandy.

In October Allen Bennett, one of the campaign directors, announced the financial goals for the "Rise Up...Reach Out" program. They were as follows: launch goal - $1,200,000.00, challenge goal - $2,100,000.00, and the celebration goal - $2,500,000.00. These goals reflected a challenging, yet realistic potential for our church as we sought to follow God's will in our ministry expansion needs and to erase the debt service on our loan to the First of America Bank. West Side had always exceeded her goals in the past and we anticipated continuing to do so in the present and future. Let Us Rise Up — "Not Equal Gifts, But Equal Sacrifice!"

On October 29 West Side had a unique special service including the choir, drama and orchestra combined for three selections, a solo by Bob Smith, a duet by Mike and Julia Harney, and a reenactment of the Lord's Supper. Commitment pledge cards were turned in following Mr. Beeman's devotion on "Sacrifice". A special Junior Church was held for the children with drama and puppets.

November 12, 1995 — "Thanks Be Unto God" and "Thanks" to every member for participation in the "Rise Up.. .Reach Out" campaign. As of this date, the figure was $2,379,917.38 and growing. By the end of December, the financial campaign total increased to $2,400,177.38!

In December a New Hymnal Project was underway. It was decided that the Christmas memorials for that year would be given toward the purchase of the new hymnals, which would be placed in the pew racks of the sanctuary.

In the year 1995, the average a.m. attendance was 1,220 and the p.m. attendance was 423. The new church building on Cider Mill was nearing completion, and 1996 was slated as our Year of Beginning Again!

1996

In January roads were quickly leading to the new facility at Cider Mill. An all-church workday was scheduled for February 3 with the need published for 100 vacuum cleaners as well as a need for dusting, cleaning windows, waxing furniture, etc. Many church members volunteered to help with this cleanup project.

On February 11 immediately following the benediction, plans were made to load up and move out of Springfield High School with thankful hearts for accommodations during the past almost three years. The Singles and T.N.T. classes were to load up their chairs immediately following Bible School class. Trucks were available at either door of the annex. Other crews under the direction of Julie Simmons, Don Bowers and Jim McKay (sound) were making arrangements as well. The church family was instructed that they should leave the high school building "better than it was when the church moved into it." Also in February an orientation was held to familiarize the congregation with our new church building.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY! Reach out and say, "Come To Our New Church House" It’s A Go! February 18 was the first Sunday for services in our new church building. Every member was encouraged to be present to give thanks and praise to God! Ground was broken for our new building in July 1992. It had been a long process and a long wait, but the wait was now over and we would enter to worship. There was a special service and special music; everything seemed to be so very special that day with all of the glory given to our Lord and Savior! The attendance in our first Sunday at the new facility was 1,789 in the morning worship services, 1,096 in Bible School and 850 in the evening worship service. Our prayer was that God be with us in this new venture of growth, development and outreach.

The "Stephen Ministry" was established in 1996. Leaders for this ministry included Patti Austin, Sally Beck, Jan Haferkamp, Shirley Hennings, Nancy Treat, David and Linda Vineyard and Marsha Woodruff. The Stephen Ministry was a one- on- one caring ministry developed to meet the emotional needs of those in crisis. This ministry acted as a link between all other support ministries and provided care for those who experienced a crisis for which there was no ministry. This ministry also provided continuing support after people had participated in one of the other organized support ministries. People in crisis of illness, death, divorce, rebellious teenagers, job loss, etc. needed the opportunity to talk, pray with, and receive encouragement from a Christian brother or sister, and West Side provided that in the person of the Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministers continued to comfort those in need through the years.

On February 25 West Side held a special "Thank You" evening service for all of the churches and school that had helped us by allowing the use of their facilities during our time of transition. The kindness, concern, and generosity of other churches and Springfield High School were very much appreciated. The churches and school represented were:

Calvary Temple (Mark Johnson) - Charlie's Angels
Douglas Avenue Methodist Church and Trinity Lutheran Church (Terry Edel) - Christian Elementary School
South Side Christian Church (Bob Green) - Christian Day Care Center/Baptisms
St. John's Lutheran Church (Peter Thompson) - Board Meetings
Our Savior's Lutheran Church (Neil Ristow) - Adult Choir
Temple Israel (Barry Marks) - Broken Promise/Women In Study
Prairie Streams Christian Church (Mike Susko) - Baptisms

Springfield High School (Mike Wisniewski, Darrell Hicks and Kato Underwood) - Worship Services

On February 25 there were 75 first time visitors! 1,569 were in the morning worship services, 1,032 in Bible School and 600 returning in the evening to say 'Thanks". What a great service that was!

In late February West Side was happy to announce a new receptionist/secretary. Terri Doolin was welcomed as an addition to the church staff.

On March 24 doors and hearts opened to all members, friends, and visitors for the great day of the Dedication of our new church building to God. The new building, a tool of ministry, was a blessing to us now and shall be for future generations. An open house was held in the evening with the special guest speaker being Floyd Strater, a former minister of West Side. Honorary guests from the community were present and a mass West Side choir sang for us. Copies of the 1902 Dedication Service of our first church building were distributed to all who attended.

In April the "Grow Program" was organized which was a Monday evening evangelism. Reorganization was done in the vital ministry of witnessing on behalf of Christ and His church. Vaughn Beeman set up a schedule of four teams (with nine men on each team) to take their turn on Monday evenings calling on visitors to our worship service and prospective new members. Under Vaughn's direction, these men continued to make personal calls every Monday evening of each week for several years.

Investment bonds were made available to West Side members as partial financing for the new church facilities. By April 1996, $5,200,000.00 in church bonds had been issued.

July 1996 — Startling Figures! Since the church relocated to Cider Mill, there were approximately 472 first time visitors and 129 additions, with 44 of those having been youth.

"Crossroads" was a divorce recovery ministry for adults developed at West Side in 1996 and led by Mark Brewer. All of the presentation material was prepared and presented by Mark. His knowledge coupled with his humor allowed people who were caught in impossible situations to feel there could be hope. The Crossroads ministry continued through the years.

On July 28 a general planning/evaluation meeting was held for all West Side women age 20 and above. The purpose of this meeting was to launch a prayerful evaluation of the Women's Ministry and to plan for the future.

August 25 was the date of the new library open house. Following the evening services everyone was invited to visit the new church library.

"Growing Kids God's Way" was another new ministry introduced by Brant and Michelle Perrigo to young parents at West Side in September of 1996. Growing Kids God's Way was a study on the Biblical ethics of parenting, and classes were held weekly. These classes were available to members and non-members as well as Christians and non-Christians. This was a ministry that should not be missed.

October 20 was another special day at West Side with an "All Church Round-up" celebration The congregation was asked to cancel all outside plans and attend the big round-up celebrating the first anniversary of the "Rise Up... Reach Out" financial campaign. Charles McNeely, President of Lincoln Christian College, was the guest speaker. Activities included games for the children, activities for youth and adults, and a celebration service in the worship center, followed by everyone enjoying Barney Hart's chili and soup. On November 3, 1996, David Austin was appointed to the position of Building Manager. Prior to that assignment, Dave had served as a Custodian as well as voluntarily assisting with the directing of the singles before the hiring of Kip Knavel as the Singles Minister.

In November the VIP Program (Volunteer Involvement Program) was launched at our new church building. Dave Austin compiled a list of continuous maintenance care duties that lay people could do. This was a ministry of helping to care for our new church facilities. On November 17 the Faithful Men, under the direction of Rod and Bonnie Latta, presented a full program in the evening services.

Also in November the high school youth group collected 703 pounds of canned goods for some service projects. Great job! The canned goods were delivered during the youth hour and the young people returned in time for evening services and then to Brent Borah's house for pizza.

The first Women's Fellowship at Cider Mill Lane was held on November 21. It was an evening of fellowship, inspiration, and an opportunity to serve. The program was a special drama titled "Mary and Martha" by Julia Harney and Linda Grant.

November 24 was designated as "Breadline Sunday". Loaves of bread were stacked at all entrances to the church building for purchase by the congregation. It was an excellent opportunity for the church to become involved in this community project for the St. John's Breadline. The Breadline serves meals every day to the homeless, socially disabled, elderly, unemployed, and many families. Cost of the bread, donated by Schnucks grocery store, was $2.00 per loaf and 100 percent of the profit was donated to St. John's Breadline.

The congregation was invited to meet together for our first Christmas Eve candlelight service in the new church building. The Faithful Men hosted the evening by singing and serving communion. Church members participated in taking communion together followed with devotion by Mr. Beeman.

1997

Happy Birthday West Side! At the end of each service on Sunday, March 2, 1997, everyone celebrated and gave thanks for having been in the new church building at Cider Mill Lane for one year. Some of the first accomplishments were recapped, and several leadership personnel gave special tributes.

Since moving into the new facility, it became apparent of the urgent need for a drop-off canopy at the south entrance to provide a dry access to the building for disabled members, senior citizens, and families with infants and small children. Because funds were not available from the General Fund, the Elders authorized a special campaign to raise money for the project. Donations to the project would be received from March 9 through May 25. In addition, donations to the project in memory of loved ones would be received instead of purchasing Easter lilies that year. Memorials were to be listed in the Easter Sunday bulletin. Church members were reminded that their canopy donations were to be over and above their regular Building/General Fund giving in order to maintain giving levels to the Building/ General Fund.

An "Assisted Parking" program" began on Sunday, May 11 and was designated to meet the needs of the physically challenged within our congregation. Anyone needing assistance was instructed to pull up to the signs at the south entrance.

On June 1 a special offering was received following both morning worship services that would be applied toward the construction of a new chapel at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. West Side's goal for that day was $3,300.00.

The Bible School offering on June 15 was donated toward the purchasing of building supplies that would be used for construction at the church camp in the Dominican Republic.

On June 29 the Worship Choir presented a celebration tribute. "We Are America" was a red, white and blue celebration of the land we love — America! Church members and friends were invited to this patriotic presentation.

A resignation was received from our Children's Minister, Brant Perrigo, as he and Michelle pursued a new Children's Ministry in Sacramento, California. A farewell reception in honor of Brant and Michelle was held on June 29 immediately following the evening services.

Sunday Night Fellowship began in 1997 for young people. A casual time of fellowship and discipleship, this gathering continued every Sunday after evening worship services. Usually meeting in the home of a church family or young adult, fun and learning both carry high priority for this group. Outreach and evangelism continued to be keys to the ongoing growth of students and young people.

In August the General Board recommended a new Children's Minister to the congregation — Paul Karrick. Then later in the month, the congregation welcomed Paul and Angela into our fellowship.

Also in August West Side had another change in church staff. Youth Minister Don Soard submitted his resignation and a farewell reception was held in honor of Don, Shelley, Somer, Taylor, and Tanner Soard.

Announcement was made that Lewis Memorial Christian Village would be celebrating its 20th anniversary with an open house and refreshments on September 21.

September was our "Rise Up.. .Reach Out" second year celebration. A big "Western Day" was planned again this year with activities on the grounds at the church building, and with Barney Hart as the chef.

Monroe Street Christian Church, which was founded by the West Side congregation, celebrated their 50th anniversary with a special program on Sunday, October 12. West Side was invited to attend with the Monroe Street church members.

The Faithful Men under the direction of Rod and Bonnie Latta, presented a full concert on October 12, 1997.

In October the General Board voted to call a new Youth Minister to West Side. Chris Steele was recommended to the congregation to be the new Youth Minister. Chris was a graduate of Lincoln Christian College. Later in December, West Side welcomed Chris and Tonya into our fellowship.

November 16 was known as "International Day of Prayer." A brief video titled "Shattering The Silence" was shown during both morning worship services, and the congregation collectively prayed for church leaders and persecuted churches around the world.

A retirement service was held in honor of Charlie Lee. After 35 years of faithful service with West Side Christian Church, Charlie retired but planned to continue serving at West Side on a part time basis to oversee the Senior Ministry, Charlie's Angels, and to plan and organize senior adult trips and programs.

1997 was another good year! The average Bible School attendance was 996; the average worship service attendance was 1,570; there were 266 members added to the church, with 785 visitors, and the tithes and offerings totaled $2,086,231.00.

1998

Carol Griffith conducted a Beginner Sign Language class and welcomed anyone wishing to learn how to sign to please attend this eight-week class held in the Christian Elementary School library on February 1. In April an additional Sign Language Class was offered, being taught by Angie Nesbit for a seven-week period.

The "12 Step Ministry" was established in 1998 and the leaders of this ministry were Ardyth Withrow, Bill Belair and Don Yutzy. This was a confidential ministry developed for those struggling with any addiction or compulsion. The leaders followed the 12 Steps of AA and scripture to minister to those who were struggling. Ardyth's commitment showed in her teaching style. Her ability to be painfully direct was something this ministry desperately needed. Bill was an encourager to both those in attendance and also to Ardyth and Don. Don attained much biblical knowledge through his years as a Bible School teacher and was able to clarify many of the scriptures used in the ministry to those who were struggling. The 12 Step Ministry continued through the years.

On March 6 through 8, an Area-Wide Singles Retreat was held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly. The theme was "Celebrate Contentment" and the guest speaker being Barbara Schiler of St. Louis. Then on March 21, the Singles' first ever Star Wars Party was held at the home of Kevin Patrick, with games, movies, trivia contests, food and more!

The "Single Parent Family Ministry" was established in 1998. Patti Austin was the leader assisted by Jenny Hennings. Single Parent Family Ministry was developed to minister to those single parents that desired a smaller, more intimate Bible Study. Class members came from similar situations and could receive or give encouragement. Bible Study was the focus, but fellowship together with outside activities were thoroughly enjoyed. This ministry continued through the years.

The month of May was "Policeman's Month", and West Side took the opportunity to recognize the policemen on May 17 during worship services. The men from West Side on the police force were recognized. Also, an invitation was extended to the entire city police force to attend these services in a way of saying "thank you". They were asked to come to services in uniform.

"We Hold These Truths" was a patriotic mini-musical, presented by our summer worship choir and directed by Bob Otken.

In July, Julie Simmons submitted her resignation as Director of the Early Childhood Ministry. A big "thank you" was extended to Julie for a job well done. Also in July, Angie Nesbit accepted the position of Early Childhood Ministry Director.

Patti Austin was in England presenting her Broken Promise program during July 20 through 28. West Side was so appreciative of Patti for sharing her talents with the Broken Promise program.

All present and prospective Elders and Deacons were encouraged to participate in a program of review, inspiration, instruction, and challenge for men in leadership. J. K. Jones from Lincoln Christian College was the training leader.

On August 26 a call was extended to Nolan Head to fill the newly established Family Development Minister position. Nolan's main responsibility was in the area of evangelism, present and new member development and retention. In the area of administration, he worked with the Youth Minister and Children's Minister, as well as ministerial duties to assist Mr. Beeman.

Beginning in the fall of 1998, a continuing ministry known as My Generation or MyGen as the students called it was an outreach that sought to meet the needs of students who were just starting to build a relationship with God and with the church. Through MyGen, activities, lessons and food were used to create a welcoming environment for high school students to come and feel at home at West Side Christian Church. MyGen was a continuing ministry.

A "Happy Trails Roundup" was held on September 13 with a goal set for 2,000 to be in attendance. This was a celebration for the conclusion of the three-year "Rise Up... Reach Out" financial campaign. Everyone enjoyed afternoon recreational activities, a talent show, music, and were then fed by "Sloppy Joe Cook" Barney Hart. It was a good old-fashioned fellowship!

West Side church members were asked to commit to a 24-hour prayer vigil for our "Together We Grow" campaign! A "Together We Grow" campaign service was held with the adult choir singing, "Our God is an Awesome God" and testimonies by Gary Winkleman, Paul Karrick, Nolan Head and Mike Harney. Our financial campaign goal was set at $1,750,000.00 for a two-year period. "Not Equal Gifts, But Equal Sacrifice." The commitments received totaled $1,599,157.00! Our building fund offering on November 1 totaled $98,725.40. This was a first Sunday Miracle Offering.

The Fall Harvest Party was held on October 31 in lieu of going door-to-door for tricks or treats. Children were asked to wear their favorite Halloween costumes and meet in the gym/cafeteria for games, candy, fun, candy, face painting, candy, and oh yea, CANDY! Much adult help was needed, along with donations of individually wrapped candy.

Again this year West Side decorated the Angel Tree (gifts purchased by us for the children of prisoners, in cooperation with Chuck Colson's Prison Fellowship Ministry.) Names of children with their gift requests were available to anyone wishing to participate. The cost of the gift purchased was to be approximately $25.00.

December 12 was the first Early Childhood Ministry Angel Breakfast for parents and their children. The program consisted of pictures, craft time, breakfast, and sing along caroling with Robyn Stephens.

The annual Christmas Eve with the Faithful Men was held on December 24. It was a beautiful service with music and communion served by the Faithful Men.

In 1998 the average Bible School attendance was 1,042; average worship attendance was 1,666; there were 286 additions to the church with 756 visitors and tithes and offerings totaled $ 2,222,182.00.

1999

January — The latest segment of our "Together We Grow" campaign began in November of 1998. This was a two-year program, and in January of 1999 a total of 609 commitment cards had been turned in with an amount of $1,602,237.00. After 10 weeks, $273,842.44 had been received for an average of $27,384.00 weekly. It was anticipated that inside projects could begin and the outside projects would wait until spring and summer. The congregation was commended for their financial support.

In January a plea was sent out for volunteers to serve at Lewis Memorial Christian Village. West Side volunteers served several different days of the week during the month, and potential volunteers were asked to please contact the Key Lady, Naomi Laughlin.

"Pennies for Penicillin" was a Bible School activity that for pennies a day, helped to provide much needed aid in maintaining the free medical clinics in Indonesia. Chuck and Nance Winegamer founded Asia Pacific Christian Mission International. This month-long support for the Indonesian mission was held from March 1 through 31. Carroll Knoles and the Missions Committee continued to coordinate this activity annually.

Periodically New Member Receptions were held which provided an opportunity for the new members to become better acquainted with our leadership, staff and each other.

The Campus House Ministry at the University of Illinois conducted the evening service on March 21 in the gymnasium. Our own Bethany Stewart was in the group and the Campus Minister, Shane Taylor, was the speaker.

In the spring of 1999 one of the church members, Margaret Sandidge, inquired about conducting a quilting class at the church building. Margaret was quite knowledgeable about making quilts, so she and several other ladies, including Ebbie Fenstermaker, Dorothy Hart and Norine Smith, started meeting on Tuesday of every week. To date approximately 14 ladies enjoy the quilting and fellowship together. In early 2000 the group began earnestly working on a beautiful quilt for Vaughn Beeman, which was done with designs depicting the year 2000. By Christmas of that year the quilt was completed and presented to Vaughn.

The Ministry Fair was held on April 11 and 18 with table displays throughout the Fellowship Concourse. Our missionary, Tom Morse, of North Burma Christian Mission, now serving in Thailand, was the speaker at the 6:00 p.m. service.

The Dynamos Youth Crusade for junior and senior high school youth was held in the gym on April 21, 22 and 23. Young people were encouraged to invite a friend, participate in for praise and worship, listen to a message, as well as enjoy fellowship, fun and food.

A seminar titled "The Seven Secrets of Effective Fathers" conducted by the National Center for Fathering was held at West Side on April 16 and 17. The seminar was held for men and their spouses and was beneficial to fathers of young children, teenagers, adult children or even grandchildren.

A one-night church crusade was held on Sunday, April 25, at 6:00 p.m. The speaker was Professor J. K. Jones from Lincoln Christian College, and an ensemble from Lincoln Christian College presented the special music. Professor Jones' message was titled "My Decision for Christ and His Church" and gave us all an opportunity to rehearse again our commitment, review our priorities, and renew our faithfulness.

In June the Lake Springfield Christian Assembly's 60th Anniversary & Rally Day, and chapel dedication were conducted at the campgrounds. West Side evening services were dismissed to attend the camp rally. Events were scheduled all afternoon and an evening meal was provided. A love offering was received during the morning worship services at West Side, which was to be applied toward our commitment of $10,000.00 over a three-year period toward the camp.

The Asian Fellowship began meeting on Friday evenings in the West Side building with only two families. This group also met for Bible School on the first Sunday of each month in the church office area. The group began to grow and there were two baptisms. The Asian people needed to know English in order to function effectively in America, so James Wang, a member of the West Side congregation, decided to teach them English via the Bible. He sent out an appeal for committed people to help with this ministry.

A Fourth of July celebration was held during the evening services. Special music included presentations by the Faithful Men, the Worship Choir, and Christian Chimers.

By letter to the congregation, dated July 25, 1999, Vaughn Beeman announced his decision to step down as Senior Minister of West Side Christian Church. Vaughn had faithfully served the West Side congregation for 33+ years and this was not an easy decision for him to make. He thanked the people for their graciousness, cooperation, partnership in ministry, patience, and growing together in numerical numbers and spiritual instruction. His leaving would be a great loss to West Side!

In the fall of 1999, Paul Karrick organized the "Upward Basketball and Cheerleading" program for the young people. There were leagues for both boys and girls. This program sought to develop character in the players by providing equal opportunity for improving in skills while at the same time stressing sportsmanship.

The "Illumination '99" celebration was held on September 12. This new theme replaced the old "RoundUp" theme, which had been used for the past three years. Everyone was invited to attend. There were games, crafts, food, a variety of musical entertainment, and evening worship services on the church grounds.

For women who had become members of West Side during the past year, a "Coffee and Conversation" was planned for Saturday, September 18. This gathering included a brief, informal, casual, one-hour light breakfast to help introduce the new women to the many opportunities to serve, study and socialize with women of the faith at West Side. In November, the Women in Study fall session began. This study featured Beth Moore's study on "A Heart Like His - Seeking the Heart of God Through a Study of David." Women were encouraged to attend.

The "Cancer Support Group" began meeting in September of 1999. The mission of the support group was to minister to the spiritual and emotional needs of cancer patients, their families and friends. This was the first Bible-based cancer support group in the Springfield area. Sylvia Hill started the group as a result of her own experience with cancer and God's leading her to begin a cancer ministry at West Side. The group meet from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoons, bimonthly, in Conference Room West. The group leaders were Sylvia Hill and Karen Clark.

A Singles' reunion "Been There — Done That" was held on September 18. Gary had encouraged anyone who had ever been a part of the Singles Ministry to try to attend. John Westfall was the guest speaker. It was a great evening of food, fellowship, reminiscing and entertainment.

The 1999 Ladies' Retreat was held at Lake Springfield Christian Assembly on September 24 and 25. The theme was "Bear With Each Other" by loving, forgiving, accepting. The main speaker was Kaylene Idleman, Dean of Women at Ozark Christian College and also the wife of Ken Idleman, President of Ozark Christian College.

Women In Service planned to gather quarterly to provide support to one of our many areas of service. (Care packages for college students, valentine gifts for shut-ins, help with artistic items for Mother/Daughter Banquets, etc.) The first of these meetings was held on October 5 to mail care packages to all of our college students.

An update from the Senior Minister Search Team informed the congregation that they had been meeting often in their pursuit of finding the Lord's man to lead West Side Christian Church. The congregation was asked to please continue praying for the search team and also for the Beemans as they made plans for their future.

On November 24, the Family Development Minister, Nolan Head, submitted his resignation to the Eldership. Prayers are coveted for the Head family's future ministry and for the leadership of the kingdom here at West Side. The duties of this area were to be under the oversight and fulfillment of the Elders and Staff.

1999 was another good year at West Side Christian Church. The average attendance in Bible School was 1,059; attendance in worship services averaged 1,739; new members totaled 276; and there were 628 visitors. The total amount contributed to the "Together We Grow" building fund was $1,004,952.76.

2000

On Sunday January 9, 2000, the entire church family, friends and acquaintances were invited to gather in the worship center at West Side Christian Church to give tribute to Vaughn and Linda Beeman shared through "Memories of a Ministry". The Beemans began their ministry at West Side in October 1966 in the area of Youth Ministry. Vaughn later served as Minister of Christian Education before becoming our Senior Minister. Their 33+ years at West Side exemplified excellence in every aspect of the church's ministry. The Beemans touched many lives throughout their ministry at West Side. On January 16, Vaughn preached for his last time as our Senior Minister giving his final words of instruction, teaching and encouragement to the congregation.

While Vaughn Beeman served as Senior Minister of the West Side Christian Church, 1,777 people were baptized and 2,252 transferred their membership to the West Side congregation.

In the interim before confirmation of a new senior minister, the ministry at West Side continued to move forward and staff members continued with their programs. Dr. Marion Henderson and Lynn Laughlin, both from Lincoln Christian College, consented to preach in the morning worship services. Speakers for the evening services included Paul Karrick, Chris Steele, Dan Stewart, Jay Beeman, John Henderson, Jim Poll, Charles Duggins, Gary Winkleman, Barry Jensen and other guest speakers. Mike Harney certainly was an asset to West Side as he faithfully provided leadership in the planning and coordinating of the worship services during this period of transition.

West Side continued to increase in attendance to 1,739 with predictions of 1,800 by the year 2000 and 2,000 by the year 2005. These were only predictions, but with effort it was anticipated the goals could be reached.

With reluctance and mixed emotion, the resignation of Angie Nesbit, Early Childhood Ministry Director, was accepted effective February 27. Thanks were expressed to Angie for a job well done.

"Together We Grow" financial campaign funds continued to be received. Funds from this campaign, which began in 1998, were designated for debt reduction and visionary projects. Some projects completed were two new classrooms in the education wing, as well as expanded parking for 216 more vehicles. Construction was to begin soon for the new storage building at the south side of the church property.

In March 2000 Lake Springfield Christian Assembly purchased the adjacent property, formerly known as the Rod & Reel Club. The main building was renamed Lakeview Lodge and was utilized for many church related functions.

Charlie's Angels continued to meet monthly with song service, devotions, program and lunch. Charlie was very dependable and much appreciated for organizing and leading this group of seniors.

"West Side Connection" was an orientation for all visitors and newcomers to help them "make the connection" with West Side; with some of the church staff; with other visitors and newcomers; and with what West Side believes and how to become a member. This was an opportunity to hear the "West Side Story" and ask questions. West Side Connection was organized in March 2000 with Cindy Lash and Gary Winkleman conducting the sessions. (West Side Connection originally met on the third Sunday of each month and expanded to meet on the first and third Sundays of each month.)

A 24-hour prayer vigil was held in April. The church family was continuously in prayer — seeking God's guidance and wisdom for the Senior Minister Search Team in selecting a Senior Minister; asking God's direction and strength for leadership and staff; and asking for guidance in the development of an effective new Prayer Ministry at West Side.

In June 105 students and sponsors departed for the CIY (Christ In Youth) conference. A life-changing week was in store for them as they traveled to Anderson, Indiana. The youth thanked the membership for supporting that endeavor both financially and through prayers.

June 4, 2000, was the annual Lake Springfield Christian Assembly Camp Rally. Evening services at West Side were dismissed to allow members to attend the rally. Danny Clymer spoke to the adults and Darin Hansen to the youth. A retiring love offering for the camp had been received following the morning worship services.

On June 19 it was announced that Jessica Schildman has accepted the part-time position of Early Childhood Ministry Director and Jessica was welcomed to the staff. In June something new and exciting was taking place at West Side. A weekly prayer service was to be held in the chapel each Saturday at 8:00 a.m. called "It's All About Prayer." The prayer service would last about an hour each week and include a brief devotion with scripture focused on prayer, a personal testimony on prayer, and a time to simply pray together. Everyone was invited to attend. Larry Lewis was much appreciated for organizing this prayer ministry.

In July there was exciting news about the selection of the next senior minister for West Side Christian Church. With a unanimous and enthusiastic vote, the Board of Elders approved the Search Team's recommendation to invite Eddie Lowen to preach an introductory sermon at West Side on July 9 in both the morning and evening worship services. An all-church reception was held for the Lowens. God had richly blessed West Side in so many ways throughout the years and it was believed that God had answered many prayers and opened the door to bring Eddie and Sharon to West Side. The church family was asked to continue praying for God's leading in that important decision. Then on September 10, it was an exciting day in the history of West Side Christian Church as our new Senior Minister Eddie Lowen and his family were welcomed. Eddie was just the fourth minister at West Side during the past 60 years following Ernie Laughlin, Floyd Strater and Vaughn Beeman.

Vacation Bible School 2000 was another huge success with 613 children, 200 adult and teen volunteers and $3,300 raised for the Dominican Republic.

In late August, the General Board approved accepting bids and authorized a contract to start construction on the expansion of the All Purpose 1. The 5,400 square-foot expansion would provide several much- needed rooms for Bible School growth and also allow for increased fellowship activities.

On August 30 Christian Elementary School began her 50th year of ministry to families of West Side Christian Church and the Springfield community.

TWG "Illumination 2000" was a big day at West Side as the church celebrated the conclusion of the second year of the "Together We Grow" financial campaign. "Illumination 2000" featured a parade of ministries, food and lots of activities. Also, there was a welcome for our new Senior Minister Eddie Lowen.

In November the International Network of Children's Ministries came to West Side for a full day of training. Children's workers from all over central Illinois attended this day of excellent training.

The "Together We Grow" financial campaign was extended for a period of 12 months — "Together We Grow II." This extension would allow for completion of the projects underway; pay off more of the debt; and include some new construction, such as a sign along Veterans Parkway. The goal for this one-year campaign was $1,000,000.00. Informational meetings continued.

"Newcomer Coffee" was another outreach for interested guests to stop by the Welcome Center each Sunday from 10:25 to 10:40 a.m. to meet some of the staff and leadership.

West Side united in worship with South Side Christian Church on November 19 for joint fellowship. Jeff Chitwood, Minister of South Side, and Eddie Lowen shared in preaching; Mike Harney collaborated with the South Side music department to form a combined choir; and children's activities were provided.

A special recognition service was held on December 3 for Patti Austin in honor of her ten years of ministry with the West Side congregation. A reception in her honor was held immediately following the service.

The "House of Hope Ministry" was created to address benevolent concerns as they arise. This program would initially focus on single parent families of West Side Christian Church. The ministry was designed to provide assistance in areas of physical, spiritual and/or emotional and financial needs resulting from a variety of situations. The offering received on Christmas Eve for House of Hope totaled $11,178.00. This money would be thoughtfully administered throughout the year. Out of concern for the dignity and privacy of those that were assisted, their identity would be protected.

2001

On March 4, Friend Day welcomed 50 first-time guests. West Side invited those interested in learning more to attend West Side 101, a class exploring Christianity, baptism, membership, and the church’s beliefs.

West Side also created opportunities for people of different ages to explore faith. J.A.M.—Jesus and Me—helped elementary students understand what it meant to follow Jesus, while the new Tough Topics Forum provided an open setting for adults to discuss questions and doubts about Christianity.

On April 28, Christian Elementary School celebrated its 50th anniversary. Alumni and guests toured the school’s former home at Graham Elementary and its new facility on Cider Mill Lane, viewed historic photographs, shared a meal, and gathered for an anniversary program. A reunion Honor Choir participated in worship the following morning.

In July, West Side launched Parenting Ministry under the leadership of Paul Karrick. Courses equipped parents to apply biblical principles through every stage of their children’s development, from infancy through adolescence.

Vacation Bible School also supported House of Hope, a new West Side ministry serving single-parent families. Children directed their offerings toward the ministry’s practical care efforts.

Bible education remained central to West Side’s ministry across generations. During the year, the high school Bible School class averaged between 60 and 75 students, while children, college-age adults, singles, and families continued gathering for age-specific study and community.

2002

On February 1, Dave Miller joined West Side’s staff as Director of Administration, helping strengthen the systems and staff structure needed to support a growing congregation.

That spring, more than 170 Westsiders served onstage and behind the scenes to present The Choice, an Easter production portraying the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus.

On April 14, West Side held its first Ministry Huddle. The gathering brought current and prospective volunteers together to celebrate ministry, improve coordination, clarify responsibilities, and develop new leaders.

Continued growth led West Side to add a third Sunday morning worship service on September 8. The change created more room for guests and required Children’s Ministry, Student Ministry, Bible classes, and adult groups to expand across the new schedule.

House of Hope provided practical care for single parents throughout the year, offering groceries, counseling, financial assistance, and help with medical, automotive, and home-repair needs. Three donated vehicles were given to parents without reliable transportation, while the food pantry distributed an average of two food baskets each week.

Average weekly worship attendance reached 1,761 during the year.

2003

In January, Chris Sandel joined West Side’s staff in Junior High Ministry, and Bethany Stewart joined the Worship and Arts team.

Continued growth following the addition of a third Sunday service created an immediate need for more seating. In March, West Side reopened the Worship Center balcony during the 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. services.

West Side prepared for Easter through a daily prayer emphasis that invited each person to pray for someone far from God for one minute at 1:00 p.m. Easter weekend included the outreach production You Are the Christ, followed by Sunday services that welcomed 2,723 people on April 20.

Vacation Bible School reached capacity before it began in July, with several early childhood classes filling completely—another indication of the church’s growing need for ministry space.

On October 12, West Side launched 40 Days of Purpose, a churchwide journey centered on worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry, and mission. Westsiders gathered in small groups hosted in homes throughout the community and explored the five purposes through weekly teaching.

A Ministry Fair on November 16 helped participants connect their gifts and interests with opportunities to serve. West Side concluded the 40-day journey with Celebration Sunday on November 30.

Average weekly worship attendance reached 1,795 during the year.

2004

Following the previous year’s 40 Days of Purpose campaign, West Side relaunched Home Groups in February with a study of the book of James. More than 70 households opened their homes, giving Westsiders new opportunities to grow in faith and build community.

During Holy Week, West Side held a 24-hour prayer vigil leading into its Good Friday service, creating space for continuous prayer and reflection before Easter.

On June 27, West Side commissioned nine new Stephen Ministers. Each had completed 50 hours of training to provide one-on-one Christian care to people navigating difficult circumstances.

More than 75 students and adult leaders attended Christ In Youth in Anderson, Indiana, that summer. Throughout the year, approximately 140 Westsiders also served through short-term mission teams in the United States and countries including the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, Egypt, and India.

By November, average weekly worship attendance was reported at 1,946.

2005

In January, West Side responded to the Indian Ocean tsunami by giving more than $18,900 through International Disaster Emergency Service, Asia Pacific Christian Mission International, and Central India Christian Mission.

West Side also launched a seeker small group at the Hoogland Center for the Arts, creating a setting beyond the church campus for people exploring Christianity and asking questions about faith.

In June, a West Side team served in the Dominican Republic through children’s programming, a medical clinic, and construction of a new church building. From July 30 through August 6, another team partnered with Casas por Cristo to build homes for families in Juarez, Mexico.

Vacation Bible School drew enough children to fill several early childhood classes, highlighting the growing need for additional ministry space.

In August, West Side launched High 5, inviting each Westsider to identify and pray for people they could help draw closer to God. Hundreds of cards bearing their names were placed on the platform as a visible commitment to prayer.

On September 11, West Side supported church planting in New York City through The Orchard Group and launched The Church Has Left the Building. The four-week emphasis moved beyond weekend worship, giving Westsiders practical opportunities to serve their neighbors throughout Springfield.

In December, a Student Ministry screening of The Chronicles of Narnia drew nearly 300 junior high and high school students—almost twice the usual participation. Children’s Ministry also collected and distributed more than 3,500 books to students at three area schools.

Average weekly worship attendance reached 1,974 during the year.

2006

West Side continued developing clear pathways for spiritual growth through West Side 101, a class that introduced people to Christianity, baptism, membership, and the church’s beliefs.

Financial Peace University launched at West Side as a 13-week course, equipping individuals and couples to manage money, eliminate debt, save, and practice biblical stewardship.

On April 21 and 22, West Side hosted the Small Groups Conference, bringing together leaders to explore how Christian community could extend beyond traditional church gatherings and into everyday life.

From June 10 through 18, a West Side team served near Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. Team members led Vacation Bible School, provided medical care, and helped complete the second story of a church building.

In August, West Side hosted a conference for stepfamilies led by author and speaker Ron Deal, providing practical guidance and encouragement for blended families.

Average weekly worship attendance reached 2,015 during the year.

2007

On January 7, West Side held WS2—West Side Squared—to help members identify their next steps through four core practices: Gather, Group, Give, and Go. The gathering complemented West Side 101, which introduced people to Christianity, baptism, membership, and the church’s beliefs.

Financial Peace University helped Westsiders put biblical principles of stewardship into practice. By November, participants in the first two classes had eliminated more than $279,000 in debt.

On September 1, Charlie Duggins retired after teaching the T.N.T. Adult Bible Fellowship class for 27 years.

West Side continued supporting mission work throughout the United States and around the world. During the year, the church added Matt Johnson, a Team Expansion missionary serving in Venezuela, as a supported mission partner.

Average weekly worship attendance reached 1,956 during the year.

2008

West Side began the year by strengthening its partnership with parents, providing weekly resources to help families have spiritual conversations at home.

In January, West Side reported that A Different Kind of Christmas had raised more than $127,000 for ministry in Kenya. Following violence and unrest in Nairobi, $25,000 was directed toward rebuilding homes and businesses and providing displaced families with food and clothing.

More than 3,000 people gathered for Easter worship on March 23.

On June 1, West Side welcomed Wallace and Mary Kamau, founders and leaders of the Hope Schools in Nairobi. Their visit gave Westsiders another opportunity to sponsor children through CMF’s Hope Partnership and deepen the church’s relationship with Kenya.

West Side participated in Springfield’s Year of Reconciliation, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot. Westsiders joined prayer gatherings, visited historic markers, and participated in community efforts focused on racial reconciliation and healing.

Although unrest prevented West Side from sending a team to Kenya, mission service continued in Oklahoma, Poland, and Mexico. The church also provided emergency supplies through mission partners responding to a devastating cyclone in Myanmar.

In 2008, West Side retired The Harbinger, its longstanding weekly newsletter.

By year’s end, average weekly worship attendance had grown to approximately 2,000.

2009

In July, Vacation Bible Experience welcomed more than 500 children for a week of worship, Bible teaching, games, and service. More than 300 volunteers helped make the Crocodile Dock experience possible.

Later that summer, Eddie Lowen began his tenth year as West Side’s Lead Minister. As he reflected on the church’s growth, he identified two priorities for the future: helping people become more intentional about spiritual development and expanding facilities that were becoming too small for the congregation.

West Side’s mission partnerships extended to more than 20 countries across six continents. The church was on track to give more than $650,000 to global missions, including sponsorships for more than 400 children in Nairobi, Kenya.

Westsiders served through mission teams in the United States and around the world. Their efforts included providing $20,000 in medicine to a Christian hospital clinic in the Dominican Republic, offering dental care to children in Nairobi, helping construct a church building, and leading children’s programs. West Side’s junior high students also raised more than $10,000 to bring electricity to a Kenyan school, while children gave more than $5,000 to provide school supplies near New Orleans.

Continued growth led West Side to begin planning expanded facilities for children and families. With approximately 360 children participating each Sunday, plans included new elementary worship spaces, renovated preschool areas, nursery and toddler suites, and a central gathering area for families.

Financial Peace University continued producing measurable change in the lives of Westsiders. Over four years, more than 400 participants had eliminated over $735,000 in consumer debt, destroyed hundreds of credit cards, and established emergency savings.

By year’s end, average weekly worship attendance was 2,102, while average weekly giving exceeded $80,000.

2010

Early in the year, West Side joined a church-planting partnership supporting Community Christian Church of Naperville in its efforts to establish new locations in downtown Chicago.

Two longtime staff members celebrated ministry anniversaries in 2010. Mike Harney marked 15 years of service in worship, drama, senior adult ministry, and pastoral care, while Gary Winkleman marked 20 years of ministry through care, support groups, missions, weddings, and funerals.

Continued growth led West Side to add a fourth Sunday morning service on April 4. That same day, a record 3,259 people attended Easter worship.

West Side significantly expanded its ministry to children and families during the year. The Wild launched in April as a new elementary worship and small-group experience. Before the new children’s rooms were completed, families gathered to write prayers and Scripture on the concrete floors, dedicating the spaces to helping future generations know Jesus.

New children’s worship studios and classrooms opened in June, followed by expanded nursery and early childhood spaces, the Kids Guest Center, and Central Park in August. More than 700 people attended a community grand opening that fall. Sunday elementary attendance grew by nearly 20 percent during the year.

The Christian Day Care Center also relocated to a larger, renovated facility at 400 North Bruns Lane, providing additional room for its day care and preschool ministries.

In August, Westsiders responded to a spontaneous generosity challenge by donating 4,280 pairs of shoes to Soles4Souls. The number of children sponsored by Westsiders in Kenya also grew to more than 500.

That fall, West Side launched Renewal, a weekly care ministry offering support for people experiencing divorce, grief, addiction, and other difficult circumstances.

With the addition of a fourth service, West Side designated 2010 as the Year of the Volunteer. More than 400 Westsiders began serving for the first time.

West Side also introduced Elevate, a 25-month vision to invest greater compassion, resources, and energy in ministry throughout Springfield and beyond. The initiative set a generosity goal of $16.2 million and included continued improvements to the church’s campus.

By December, average weekly attendance had reached 2,205, while average weekly giving exceeded $96,000.

2011

The year began with a book fair at Harvard Park Elementary School, funded through West Side’s 2010 Christmas outreach. Thousands of books were given to children who had limited access to reading materials at home.

During the spring, hundreds of Westsiders used Monvee, a spiritual assessment that helped participants create personalized plans for growth. In April, West Side opened Fireside Cafe as a place for connection throughout the week and a welcoming bridge between the church and the community.

West Side also organized its first Family Mission Trip to serve families affected by the tornado in Joplin, Missouri. On campus, Children’s Ministry welcomed more than 500 first-time guests during the year.

In June, an Elevate garage sale and student-led Just Add Hope events raised $32,000 for a new community center in Kenya. Wallace and Mary Kamau visited West Side that fall, strengthening the congregation’s growing partnership with ministry in Nairobi.

From July 30 through August 7, West Side led Springfield Sharefest at Harvard Park Elementary School. In nine days, more than 1,500 volunteers renovated the century-old school, improving its classrooms, offices, library, playground, and other shared spaces. More than 100 businesses and organizations participated, contributing over $250,000 in materials and improvements.

Throughout the fall, West Side developed plans for a new Student Center through Elevate. The proposed space would include a 250-seat worship area and additional gathering spaces designed to strengthen junior high and high school ministry.

In December, Hope for the Holidays provided two weeks of groceries—approximately 63,000 meals—for families at Harvard Park. Every student also received a new pair of boots.

2012

In the spring, West Side introduced the Family Ministry Road Map, a series of milestone experiences designed to equip parents to guide their children’s spiritual development from family dedication through high school graduation.

West Side continued serving beyond Springfield during the year. A men’s team helped families in Joplin, Missouri, rebuild following the previous year’s tornado. In June, 56 Westsiders formed the largest international mission team in West Side’s history at that time, serving alongside Missions of Hope International in Nairobi’s Mathare Valley.

Construction of The Hub, West Side’s new Student Center, was completed in July. The space opened for student ministry on August 3, providing worship space for 250 students along with classrooms, gathering areas, and a snack bar. Junior high and high school ministries both grew after moving into their new home.

On August 26, West Side held Baptism Sunday. During the services, 129 people made spontaneous decisions to follow Jesus and were baptized in their street clothes.

On September 23, West Side launched The Story, a 31-week journey through the Bible, with more than 3,100 people attending the kickoff. The churchwide experience included weekend teaching, small groups, and courses led by professors from Lincoln Christian University, helping Westsiders better understand Scripture as one connected story.

In November, West Side’s original 1901 cornerstone was installed near the main entrance of the Cider Mill campus, honoring the generations who had laid the foundation for the church’s ministry.

That December, Hope for the Holidays provided two weeks of groceries for families connected with Harvard Park and McClernand elementary schools—more than 80,000 meals in all. Every McClernand student also received a new pair of shoes.

As Elevate neared its conclusion, West Side was on track to receive approximately $14.2 million through the generosity initiative. Those gifts supported global ministry in Kenya and Myanmar, church planting, local schools and mission partners, and campus projects including the remodeled concourse, Fireside Cafe, Waterside Room, and The Hub.

Continued attendance growth also led West Side to begin preparing for a renovation of the Worship Center. A new stair tower was completed in May to meet updated safety requirements, and leaders began planning the next phase of generosity needed to complete the renovation.

2013

Financial Peace University entered its eighth year at West Side. Since the course began, approximately 1,000 participants had eliminated nearly $1.3 million in debt, with additional debt paid after graduation.

In February, construction began on a major Worship Center renovation and a third-floor Family Room. The project replaced the downstairs pews with theater seating, expanded capacity, relocated the baptistery to ground level, improved accessibility and emergency exits, and added new backstage and video capabilities.

More than 4,000 people gathered for five Easter services in March. The following month, West Side completed The Story, a 31-week journey that helped the congregation understand the Bible as one connected narrative.

Continued growth also created a need for more children’s ministry space. Two rooms were renovated for upper-elementary students, while weekly participation grew by 20 percent to more than 500 children each Sunday.

In June, 45 Westsiders served alongside Missions of Hope International in Nairobi’s Mathare Valley. The team provided health services to thousands of residents, led children’s programming, trained educators, and shared the hope of Jesus.

From July 27 through August 3, Springfield Sharefest renovated McClernand and Jane Addams elementary schools. More than 1,600 volunteers and nearly 100 community partners contributed $331,000 in materials to the effort.

West Side launched Care Connection during the summer, pairing people experiencing difficult circumstances with trained Care Partners for individual spiritual care, encouragement, and prayer.

In August, the Cannonball series invited Westsiders to go “all in” through service, and more than 800 new volunteers joined ministry teams. The following month, 600 households participated in the 90-Day Tithe Dare. Westsiders also sponsored 180 additional children in Kenya, bringing the total number of sponsorships in West Side’s adopted Nairobi community to 551.

Facility improvements continued across the campus throughout the fall. West Side expanded its parking lot, added an entrance on Cider Mill Lane, and renovated Centennial Hall. The renovated Worship Center opened in December with expanded seating, a more accessible baptistery, improved safety features, and updated video technology.

West Side also provided practical care throughout the community that Christmas. The Love Come Down Project supplied clothing and food to students at Harvard Park Elementary School and their siblings. High school students raised $16,000 through Feast for 500, helping provide Thanksgiving meals for 2,000 people.

West Side concluded the year by celebrating Christmas in the newly renovated Worship Center with six services.

2014

In 2014, West Side adopted a clarified mission: connecting everyone to Jesus and his mission. This shared language gave the church a clearer focus for its ministries, volunteers, and future direction.

That spring, the EVERYONE campaign carried the message of Easter throughout the community through billboards, buses, social media, signs, and personal invitations. West Side held six Easter services on April 19 and 20, proclaiming that Jesus lived, died, and rose again for everyone.

West Side continued helping parents guide their children’s spiritual development through Family Ministry Milestones. These experiences marked significant moments from family dedication and beginning kindergarten through adolescence and high school graduation.

Adults In Ministry celebrated five years of serving adults age 60 and older through fellowship, Bible study, service, and care. The ministry marked the anniversary with A Night of Jazz at Erin’s Pavilion on June 25.

West Side also expanded its care ministries by offering Faith in Fertility, an eight-week group supporting couples experiencing infertility or miscarriage.

On August 24, more than 1,000 current and prospective volunteers attended West Side’s first Volunteer Bootcamp. The gathering equipped volunteers for a new ministry season and aligned them around the church’s clarified mission. West Side also introduced The Code, a shared set of values for living out that mission together.

2015

In the spring, West Side Kids created Easter egg hunts in their neighborhoods, inviting more than 300 friends to Easter services. A record 250 third- through fifth-grade students also attended the Very Important Pre-Teen event.

From July 25 through 29, Springfield Sharefest completed an extensive renovation of Feitshans Elementary School. Following the project, the school reported fewer office referrals and out-of-school suspensions, along with increased participation in parent-teacher conferences.

On September 2, West Side’s junior high and high school students placed 62,500 notes on lockers in 27 schools, reminding students that their words matter and that they matter to God.

West Side launched its online campus on October 4, extending the church’s reach beyond Springfield. By year’s end, 2,570 unique participants had connected from 42 states, 21 countries, and six continents.

Westsiders also served through local and global mission partnerships at record levels. The church gave more than $650,000 to mission partners, while 121 people participated in 10 mission trips across the United States and around the world.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 2,948. Average on-campus attendance was 2,892, while the newly launched online campus averaged 304. The church welcomed 1,077 first-time guests, and 168 people were baptized.

2016

On August 28, West Side celebrated Baptism Day, as 84 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus in a single day.

On September 4, West Side welcomed Mary Kamau, director of Missions of Hope International. During the year, Westsiders sponsored 696 children in Nairobi and surrounding communities.

Christmas services reached 6,378 people—the largest Christmas attendance in West Side’s history at that time.

Year-end generosity helped prepare for several initiatives planned for 2017, including the first A Night of Stars, new playgrounds in Kenya, and exterior campus improvements such as identification and directional signs.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 3,107. Average on-campus attendance was 2,746, while online attendance averaged 357. The church welcomed 1,049 first-time guests, and 528 people visited the Newcomer Area. A total of 216 people were baptized.

2017

In January, At the Movies opened with 3,891 people—the largest attendance for a non-Easter Sunday in West Side’s history at that time.

On April 7, the first A Night of Stars welcomed 482 guests with disabilities and their caregivers for a prom-style celebration. The event was made possible by 500 volunteers and 23 business partners, who contributed more than $25,000 and hundreds of hours of service.

From June 6 through 16, a team of 99 Westsiders served in communities across Nairobi, Kenya. West Side’s partnership in Kenya continued to grow, with Westsiders sponsoring 647 children by year’s end.

Rooted was introduced through pilot groups as an 11-week discipleship experience designed to help people deepen their relationship with Jesus and move beyond their comfort zones. A total of 174 people participated during the year.

On August 27, West Side celebrated Baptism Sunday, as 85 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus in a single day.

On October 1, Westsiders donated 62,684 books to help establish libraries in Kenya. Of those, 50,000 were given within the first 12 hours.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 3,263. Average on-campus attendance was 2,885, while online attendance averaged 368. The church welcomed 1,327 first-time guests, including 537 who visited the Newcomer Area. A total of 207 people were baptized.

2018

In 2018, West Side officially launched Rooted as a primary discipleship experience. Through the 10-week journey, 519 Westsiders deepened their connections with Jesus, the church, and their purpose.

Easter services reached 5,769 people, including 564 online. Throughout the year, West Side’s kids and student ministries served nearly 800 young people each week.

The congregation also prepared to launch Fearless, a two-year generosity initiative centered on bold discipleship, bold growth, and bold compassion. With a goal of engaging every Westsider and raising $27 million, Fearless sought to expand ongoing ministry, create space for more people on West Side’s campus, and increase support for local and global mission efforts.

Expansion plans included a 2,200-seat Worship Center, a larger concourse, new family amenities, and the conversion of the existing Worship Center into a multi-purpose space. A new kids wing would add more than 12,000 square feet of ministry space, dedicated rooms for people with disabilities, and an indoor playground and family gathering area.

Fearless also extended West Side’s commitment to church planting and ministry partners in Springfield, Kenya, Myanmar, and India, with a vision to bring help and hope to more people in Central Illinois and beyond.

On October 21, Westsiders gathered on the future site of the Worship Center for Advance Commitment Night, worshiping, making early commitments, and praying for the generations who would encounter Jesus there. Commitment Sunday followed on November 4.

In December, Big Give Sunday launched Fearless giving. Westsiders contributed more than $1.4 million in a single day, providing the initiative’s first major financial investment.

Christmas services reached 7,814 people, including 609 online.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 3,496, with 3,005 participating on campus and 491 online. The church welcomed 1,285 first-time guests, and 213 people were baptized.

2019

West Side entered 2019 in the first year of Fearless, a two-year generosity initiative focused on bold compassion, bold discipleship, and bold growth. Nearly 2,000 households committed more than $27 million to support expanded ministry through December 2020.

On March 4, construction began on a new kids wing and concourse addition. Plans included more than 12,000 square feet of children’s worship and activity space, dedicated rooms for people with disabilities, and an indoor playground and family gathering area.

Fearless generosity also strengthened ministry beyond West Side’s campus. The congregation helped Myanmar Hope Christian Mission construct a ministry building in rural Myanmar and continued supporting Harvard Park Elementary School through volunteer service and schoolwide Christmas celebrations.

On April 12, West Side hosted its second A Night of Stars, giving guests with disabilities an evening of dancing, food, photographs, and celebration. Easter followed on April 21, reaching 5,858 people, including 607 online.

Westsiders served around the world throughout the summer. A team worked alongside Missions of Hope International in Kenya, helping lead Vacation Bible School and provide 10,000 fluoride treatments in the Mathare Valley. Another team partnered with Christian Dominican Medical Mission to support churches in Santo Domingo through children’s programming and construction projects. Junior high and high school students also served refugees and inner-city students in St. Louis.

On August 10, hundreds of Westsiders participated in Serve Springfield, completing painting, landscaping, cleaning, and organizational projects alongside schools and local nonprofit organizations.

Construction on the new kids wing and main entrance entered its final stages in October. By September 30, 1,965 households had contributed to Fearless, with more than $9.5 million given toward the initiative.

Christmas services reached 8,659 people, including 773 online.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 3,582, with 2,908 participating on campus and 674 online. The church welcomed 984 first-time guests, 412 people participated in Rooted, and 191 people were baptized.

2020

On January 5, the Multi-Purpose Room opened as the new home of West Side’s traditional worship service. The flexible space also created new capacity for groups, dinners, First Step, and other ministry gatherings.

Fearless generosity continued benefiting ministry partners near and far. To celebrate West Side’s 1,000th Rooted graduate, the church gave $5,000 to The Outlet, a local ministry serving boys growing up without fathers. West Side’s partnership with Central India Christian Mission also helped provide a modern neonatal unit for mothers and babies in Damoh, India.

In March, the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly changed nearly every aspect of ministry. As Illinois entered a stay-at-home order, West Side moved worship services, groups, kids and student programming, Rooted, and prayer gatherings online. Although the campus closed to regular activity for several months, ministry continued through digital gatherings, practical care, mission support, and creative outreach.

Westsiders quickly mobilized to meet emerging needs. More than 300 boxes of food were prepared for local families and distributed with the help of area educators. Senior adults received meals and care packages, residents of local care facilities received encouraging cards, and West Side helped provide meals for Helping Hands while it operated as a 24-hour shelter.

West Side also provided additional support to Missions of Hope International, Myanmar Hope Christian Mission, and Central India Christian Mission, helping supply food and other necessities during the pandemic.

With in-person gatherings unavailable, West Side created a drive-through prayer and reflection experience before Easter. Online Easter services on April 12 reached 11,023 people.

Construction on the expanded campus was temporarily paused during the stay-at-home order. Work resumed in June through continued Fearless generosity, including construction of the new worship center, expanded concourse, Fireside Cafe, and the connector joining the new structure to the existing building.

On-campus worship resumed June 28. By September 13, more than 1,000 people were again attending in person, while online worship continued reaching thousands more. Groups, Rooted, and kids and student ministries gradually resumed on campus while retaining online options.

Westsiders continued serving their neighbors throughout the summer and fall. They organized food and blood drives, supported local schools, delivered care packages to senior adults, and completed projects for Washington Street Mission, Inner City Mission, Refuge Ranch, Helping Hands, Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, and Midwest Mission Distribution.

By September 30, Westsiders had given more than $21.3 million toward Fearless, with commitments and anticipated gifts totaling more than $29 million. Despite construction delays and an uncertain season, the congregation continued preparing space for future ministry.

Online Christmas services reached 8,548 people.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 4,358, with 1,012 participating on campus and 3,346 online. The church welcomed 547 first-time guests, 53 people participated in Rooted, and 36 people were baptized.

2021

West Side began 2021 by rebuilding in-person ministry following the disruptions of the previous year, while online worship continued connecting with people beyond the campus.

The congregation also began experiencing the results of the Fearless initiative. Years of prayer, generosity, planning, and construction culminated in an expanded campus with a new worship space and ministry environments designed to welcome more people. Easter services reached 6,070 people, including 3,382 online.

Throughout the year, 81 people participated in Rooted, strengthening their connections with God, the church, and their purpose.

From November 7 through December 4, Westsiders participated in 28 Days of Prayer. The church prayed for its leaders, volunteers, future generations, ministry partners, and the people who would be invited to the grand opening and Christmas services.

In December, West Side celebrated the grand opening of its new worship space and introduced Team Christmas. Volunteers committed to serving throughout Christmas at West Side, helping create a welcoming experience for guests and establishing a new serving tradition.

Christmas services reached 7,814 people, including 2,776 who participated online.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance was 3,947, with 1,801 participating on campus and 2,146 online. The church welcomed 562 first-time guests, and 181 people were baptized.

2022

On February 20, West Side welcomed Mary Kamau to celebrate 15 years of partnership with Missions of Hope International in Nairobi, Kenya. Sponsorship Sunday brought the number of children sponsored by Westsiders to more than 1,000, representing more than $450,000 in annual support.

In April, 6,020 people attended West Side’s Easter services. Throughout the year, more than 250 Westsiders participated in Rooted, building stronger relationships with God, the church, and their purpose.

Care Groups supported hundreds of people navigating grief, divorce, infertility, financial challenges, mental health concerns, and recovery.

West Side also began a new partnership with Lincoln Christian University, offering on-campus Bible and theology courses for college credit or personal enrichment.

During the summer, West Side hosted District 186 administrators and staff for several days of trauma-informed training as they prepared for the new school year.

A new partnership with Lanphier High School also took shape through Lanphier United, an effort to cultivate hope, belonging, and unity throughout the school community. West Side provided Lanphier United shirts for every student and staff member, while Westsiders sponsored 147 employees with quarterly gifts and personal encouragement.

On August 28, West Side celebrated Baptism Day, as 74 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus in a single day.

In September, the Crazy Ask Challenge invited Westsiders to complete simple acts of encouragement and service requiring fewer than three hours and less than $25. The following month, Westsiders partnered with The Outlet to donate 4,231 pairs of socks through Socktober.

Generosity continued in other practical ways. Westsiders donated enough blood to help 94 people and provided 1,536 boxes of tissues for Harvard Park Elementary School, Jefferson Middle School, and Lanphier High School.

In December, West Side gave more than $250,000 to local and global mission partners. Despite one night of services being canceled because of severe weather, Christmas services welcomed 6,751 people on December 23 and 24.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance had reached 3,856. Average on-campus attendance was 2,311, while online attendance averaged 1,590. West Side welcomed 808 first-time guests, and 185 people were baptized.

2023

In April, 6,425 people attended West Side’s Easter services.

Kids and Student Ministry remained a vital part of West Side, with an average of 631 kids and students participating on campus each week. More than 65 were baptized during the year.

During the summer, At the Movies drew approximately 3,500 people to campus each week. Westsiders also collected more than 1,000 boxes of groceries and hygiene items for the micro pantries at Lanphier High School and Jefferson Middle School.

On August 28, West Side celebrated Baptism Day, as 100 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus in a single day.

West Side cared for people in meaningful and practical ways throughout the year. The Funeral Hospitality Team served meals to more than 900 people as they gathered to grieve and remember loved ones. A Night of Stars celebrated guests with disabilities, while volunteers served as buddies and caregivers were given a place to rest and recharge.

That fall, 21 Days of Selfless Living challenged Westsiders to look beyond themselves and practice small, daily acts of service and love.

In December, West Side gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to local and global mission partners and helped launch ministry efforts for the coming year. Christmas services welcomed 9,987 people from December 22 through 24.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance had reached 4,408. Average on-campus attendance was 2,868, while online attendance averaged 1,513. West Side welcomed 1,103 first-time guests, including 518 who visited the Newcomer Area. A total of 272 people were baptized—the highest annual number in West Side’s history at that time.

2024

In February, the one-day Souper Bowl initiative provided more than 2,000 cans of soup to families in the Lanphier community. The following month, 9,162 people attended West Side’s Easter services.

In April, A Night of Stars welcomed more than 400 guests with disabilities for an evening of dancing, games, photographs, snacks, and celebration. More than 750 Westsiders volunteered to make the prom-style event possible.

During At the Movies, Westsiders collected more than 1,500 bags of school supplies for students at Harvard Park Elementary School, Jefferson Middle School, and Lanphier High School. They also provided more than 150 supply baskets for teachers at the three schools.

On August 25, West Side celebrated Baptism Day, as 147 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus in a single morning.

In October, Westsiders partnered with The Outlet to collect more than 5,500 pairs of socks through the Socktober initiative.

Generosity and service extended throughout the year. More than 150 Westsiders served with local mission partners, including Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, The Outlet, Refuge Ranch, and Inner City Mission. The congregation also supported overseas missionaries, provided hurricane relief, and sponsored more than 850 children in Kenya.

By year’s end, West Side’s average weekly attendance had reached 5,289. Average on-campus attendance was 3,377, while online services averaged 1,881 viewers. West Side welcomed 1,151 first-time guests, and 146 people participated in Rooted. A total of 331 people were baptized—the highest annual number in West Side’s history at that time.

2025

Throughout the year, Westsiders responded generously to needs both near and far. In January, they supported California fire-relief efforts through Convoy of Hope. In February, every student at Lanphier High School, Jefferson Middle School, and Harvard Park Elementary School received a spirit shirt, and every classroom enjoyed a holiday party.

Camp Sunday in March raised scholarships that helped 557 kids and students attend summer camp. The following month, 50 Westsiders traveled to Nairobi to serve alongside Missions of Hope International. Easter weekend brought 9,168 people together for services on April 19 and 20.

In June, Westsiders collected more than 3,000 cans of soup for mission partners and local micro pantries. West Side also celebrated the launch of Eglise de la Montagne, a church plant in Paris supported by the congregation.

Following the YNOT tragedy in July, West Side provided care and resources to Chatham schools. That same month, At the Movies continued to create opportunities for people to invite friends, drawing 4,916 people to campus during its opening weekend.

In August, the Dignity Drive collected more than 2,000 hygiene items for people in need. On August 24, West Side celebrated its largest Baptism Day yet, as 163 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus.

In October, a team of Westsiders helped Coastline Christian Church in Sarasota, Florida, renovate its building in preparation for launch.

December brought another outpouring of generosity. Westsiders sponsored 575 additional children in Kenya, bringing the total number of sponsored children to more than 1,400. West Side also gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to strengthen local and global mission partners and help fuel ministry in the coming year. Christmas services welcomed 10,443 people from December 22 through 24.

By year’s end, West Side had welcomed 1,518 first-time guests, and 235 people had participated in Rooted. Most significantly, 389 people were baptized—the highest annual total in West Side’s history.

125th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrating 125 Years of God’s Faithfulness

The Story of West Side

1901-1986

1986-2001

2001-2026

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