Geneva church’s new gazebo provides seating, shelter for Third Street shoppers

Just in time for the holiday rush, visitors to Geneva’s popular Third Street retail district have a new place to relax and take a break from shopping.

The Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva has constructed a gazebo and patio on property it owns at 109 S. Third St., complete with a paver patio, three benches and a roof to provide shelter and shade.

Located across from the historic Kane County Courthouse and next door to the Geneva History Museum, the gazebo features a classic design that blends seamlessly with Third Street’s historic buildings and streetscape.

Open to the public free of charge, the structure will also be used by the church for fundraising events during Geneva festivals, including the upcoming Christmas Walk on Friday, Dec. 6.

“As the oldest church in Geneva, we’ve been part of the community since 1842. Now we’re pleased to share this new amenity with visitors, friends and neighbors,” said Rev. Scot Hull, church minister. “We invite everyone to stop by, relax, and enjoy a moment of peace amid the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping.”

Founded in 1842, the Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva is the oldest church in town, part of a centuries-old liberal religious tradition that values reason and free thought over dogma and creed. Led by the Rev. Scot Hull, it offers services and religious education programs that draw on diverse spiritual traditions, as well as outreach initiatives that advance social justice causes locally and around the world. Learn more at www.uusg.org.