While not a traditional business, the Westchester Community Church has long served as an important pillar in our community. For 75 years, the church has played a meaningful role in Westchester’s development, civic life, and sense of togetherness. In recognition of its lasting impact and continued service to our residents, we are proud to feature the Westchester Community Church in this month’s Community Spotlight.
The Westchester Community Church (WCC) was formed in October/November of 1949. The church was founded by residents of Westchester from a wide range of Protestant backgrounds. Josephine and Chuck Field are credited as the originators and played a significant role in canvassing the community and inviting others to help establish WCC.
Unlike many Protestant churches of the time—which were placed in communities through denominational or ecumenical assignments—WCC’s early members met together to determine their own theology and governance. The church was originally Congregational and later joined the United Church of Christ. Today, the Westchester Community Church remains a truly community-minded church, grounded in the belief that “Whoever you are, and wherever you are on life’s journey of faith, you are welcome at the Westchester Community Church.”
In 2025, the church celebrates 75 years of worship, service, and dedication to the Village of Westchester. The church has long been committed to caring for all people—Christian and non-Christian alike—and strongly believes in the unity of Christ’s church, working together for peace, justice, and healing.
From its earliest days, members of WCC were instrumental in helping establish the Westchester Public Library, LaGrange Hospital, and the Westchester Chamber of Commerce. Their hallmark has always been caring for the entire community and finding ways to bring people together. Over the years, WCC has hosted public forums on local schools, community issues, and prospective elected officials. The church proudly supports groups and organizations such as the Westchester Food Pantry, scouting programs, Brownies, two A.A. groups, multiple theatre groups, and numerous community meetings, senior events, and youth sports activities. They also help host multiple blood drives and are known for their annual Craft Fair, Bible studies, weddings, and funerals. Weekly activities are posted on the church’s website.
WCC is also home to a vibrant preschool called Sticks and Stones. Additionally, the church quietly supports the community by allowing parking for Park District events and offering facility rentals to non-members for important family gatherings.
The church is active seven days a week, frequently hosting forums and discussions that address community issues, encourage dialogue, and foster collaboration.
Since 1997, WCC has helped create and sustain the Chicago Tamil United Church of Christ, a Tamil-speaking Indian congregation. WCC also serves as the host site for the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ, which oversees UCC churches in northern and central Illinois. The church additionally houses a counseling center for clergy of various denominations known as Midwest Careers.
Pastor Joe Mills has served as Senior Pastor since 1994. He is active in the area’s United Church of Christ cluster and supports many regional mission efforts. He is married to Barb, who recently retired after serving as a kindergarten teacher at Lindop School in Broadview. They have two adult children—one a physical therapist for children with multiple special needs, and the other a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Pastor Joe is also deeply involved in the local community as Police and Fire Chaplain, Chair of the Economic Development Committee, and a board member of the Westchester Chamber of Commerce. He is active in the Theatre of Western Springs and supports two theatre groups in Westchester.
WCC’s dedicated staff includes longtime Executive Administrator Joyce, who has served alongside Pastor Joe for many years, as well as a custodian, music director, Bell Choir director, and numerous member volunteers.
For more information on the many activities and opportunities to participate, please visit the Westchester Community Church website.