Loving Christ Totally at Lorain Christian Temple

Our History

Mr. Wire liked Lorain, then called Black River.  He liked his job as head of the railroad yard for the CTV&W Railroad, but he didn’t like the fact that there wasn’t a Disciples of Christ church in the community.  One day in 1875, Mr. Wire was in Cleveland at a meeting at Franklin Circle Church and ran into his boss, W.S. Streator.  It has been reported that Streator asked his employee how he liked Black River.  “Very well,” replied Wire, “but we would like it better if there was a Church of Christ there.”  “Well, get a man to hold you a meeting and I will provide the funds,” said Streator.

That same day, Wire contracted for the services of Rev. Robert Moffett, a well known Disciples pastor.  The first meeting of the church was held in February 1876.  The first believers Baptism was held in March of 1876 in Lake Erie.  A hole was cut into the ice and steps were hewn in the ice so that converts could get in and out.  The church was formally organized as Lorain Church of Christ on December 17, 1876.

The church has occupied three different buildings since 1876.  Our present building was opened 1931 and is neo-gothic in style containing some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in the city of Lorain.  During the 1930’s the congregation adopted the name Lorain Christian Temple Disciples of Christ honoring the dream of the ecumenism promoted by the Rev. Peter Anisle, pastor of Baltimore Christian Temple.

The most recent addition to our church building has been the installation of a Rodgers Organ.

For over 126 years Christian Temple has served the city of Lorain and the surrounding area.  We have been available in all the stages of life and have witnessed the good times and the challenging times. We sent people out and welcomed them home.

As we enter the early days of the 21^st century we remain committed to the task of proclaiming the gospel and being a place of hope and safety for all people, as we strive to Love Christ Totally.

Last modified: 08/13/08

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