History
The Evangelische Zions Gemeinde zu of Marion, Illinois, was organized on October 13,1888, by a group of German and Swiss pioneers who migrated from Washington, Madison, and St. Clair Counties, Illinois. The Rev. Ed Schweizer became their first Pastor, with twenty original members.
During World War I, an attempt was made to burn the church . On July 7, 1918, the congregation unanimously voted to repair the damage done by the fire and discontinued all services in German as long as our land was involved in war. After the war was over, the congregation decided services should alternate between the two languages.
The church expanded in 1924, with The Ministerial Alliance and other service organizations of Marion assisting in laying the cornerstone of the building we occupy today. We have grown through the years, with the addition of the Education win in 1958, expansion of the sanctuary in 1971, and a new wing and elevator on the east side of the building in 1989.
Throughout our history, we've been a people committed to mission and helping others. It is our aim to commit ourselves to a deeper involvement of our congregation to Christ and His way, and to open our hearts more fully to bring others to the deep concerns and love of our Lord.
During World War I, an attempt was made to burn the church . On July 7, 1918, the congregation unanimously voted to repair the damage done by the fire and discontinued all services in German as long as our land was involved in war. After the war was over, the congregation decided services should alternate between the two languages.
The church expanded in 1924, with The Ministerial Alliance and other service organizations of Marion assisting in laying the cornerstone of the building we occupy today. We have grown through the years, with the addition of the Education win in 1958, expansion of the sanctuary in 1971, and a new wing and elevator on the east side of the building in 1989.
Throughout our history, we've been a people committed to mission and helping others. It is our aim to commit ourselves to a deeper involvement of our congregation to Christ and His way, and to open our hearts more fully to bring others to the deep concerns and love of our Lord.
