Lake Shore Church

Lake Shore Church. Jefferson Avenue just north of Eleven Mile Road. , Lake Shore Church can trace its beginnings to 1922, when a group of visionary women, whose passionate desire to nurture children and embrace the community, formed as Ladies Aid Society on May 5, 1922. Soon thereafter, they started a Sunday School. , , On December 14, 1922, the congregation incorporated, elected officers, and purchased a plot of land on which the men of the congregation built the first church building. On September 30, 1923, they joyously dedicated the church as it opened for Sunday morning worship. Within a year, membership had grown to 25 adults and 18 children. In the early years, worshippers arrived by foot, horse-drawn carriage and automobile. , , When the original church building was no longer able to accommodate the growing congregation, a new chapel was built and dedicated in June 1941. The original building found new purpose across the street as the public library of the Village of St. Clair Shores. At the onset of World War II, Lake Shore's pastor and many of its brave men answered the call to serve our nation. Despite the challenges of wartime, the spirit of the congregation and the Sunday School endured and thrived. , , In the 1950s, Lake Shore Presbyterian blossomed, along with the rapid growth of St. Clair Shores. Once again, a new building was needed. In 1960, a new sanctuary graced the church grounds. Later that decade, a Christian Education wing was added to provide space for learning and spiritual growth. During the 1960s and 1970s, Lake Shore Church pioneered a youth ministry known at The Catacombs, which attracted youth from every corner of the city. Friday nights came alive with the sounds of live bands and the vibrant spirit of fellowship. , , Lake Shore Church continued to remain strong during the remainder of the 20th century with expanding outreach and memorable youth and camping experiences. Further growth and expansion came in the 21st century with the construction of the Welcome Center. The architectural design, with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, symbolized an outward focus, inviting the community with open arms. , , Lake Shore Church celebrated its centennial with five Centennial Celebrations in 2022-2023. To ignite the next chapter of its history, Lake Shore launched a capital campaign called the Second Century Dream; an initiative to renew the congregation's commitment to worship, transformative youth ministry, and generous service to the community. , , Lake Shore Church has been an integral part of the history of St. Clair Shores for over 100 years and continues to be a Christian influence by serving the Lord in St. Clair Shores. , , Top left image caption: 1923: The original Church building. , , Top right image caption: The Sanctuary, built in 1960. , , Bottom left image caption: 1941: A new chapel. , , Bottom right image caption: 2023: The Centennial.