Old church looks to come of age

From its origins well over a century ago, a congregation that would become the First Presbyterian Church of Libertyville has chosen to stay near the center of town.

Granted, there wasn't much else back in 1869, when members joined in a cooperative faith venture that preceded even the construction of the Cook Mansion, an iconic symbol of the downtown area.

In subsequent moves, First Presbyterian opted to stay close to the village's heart. And so it will be with a proposed multimillion dollar plan that is approaching some milestones after six years in progress.

Rather than leave its longtime home in the leafy neighborhood around Maple and Douglas avenues, the congregation "has chosen once again to bloom where we have been planted," according to information submitted to the village.

The church wants to have five properties it owns rezoned and is seeking a planned unit development designation from the village for an ambitious project that could take years to complete.

"This is a long-term master plan we're trying to work from," said John Jepsen, an elder at the church and chair of the committee that has been guiding the effort.

"It's not about growth. It's about getting our facilities in line with our ministries and programs."

First Presbyterian is known for the Georgian Colonial style church built in 1929. A Christian education wing was added in 1961 followed by a sanctuary in 1986.

The facilities are on different levels, however. "Labyrinthine staircases" are difficult for the elderly and those with disabilities to navigate and classrooms are not suited for the modern era, church officials say.

Improvements ranging from simple to complex were considered six years ago. After review by a liturgical consultant, the congregation of about 1,400 decided to pursue a master plan and for the first time in more than 20 years, launched a capital campaign.

"It's accessibility, safety, security, functionality. We're not building a Taj Mahal here," said Rev. Brian Paulson, pastor.

The major work involves replacing the Christian Education wing and Social Hall with a 33,800 square foot building to be known as the Christian Life Center. That will include 16 classrooms for preschool to fourth-grade students, 15 offices, a library and conference room. A home at 213 Maple Ave., would be demolished.

Subsequent work includes updating the sanctuary, reconfiguring the chapel, creating a gathering space and outdoor terrace, building a multipurpose center and expanding the Maple Avenue parking lot.

How fast the plans proceed depends on village approval and the cost, which is being finalized.

While officials would like to break ground next year, funding will be a factor.

"We won't start the Christian Life Center without being assured we can complete the project," Jepsen said.

The matter is scheduled for a hearing before the village's zoning board of appeals Dec. 8.