Bethlehem Healing Temple
700 Jefferson Street, Gary
Sending Up a Prayer
Not long after it was completed in 1923, the Bethlehem Healing Temple church in Gary was lauded as “a distinct contribution to the architecture of the city” and a credit to Indiana architect A. Frank Wickes’ prodigious talent. A century later, the landmark’s architectural and community legacy are in serious jeopardy.
Designed for the congregation of Gary’s Central Christian Church, the Renaissance Revival building showcased a handsome brick and Bedford stone façade with a towering campanile. Inside, the new church boasted a sanctuary with soaring 36-foot ceilings, a Bible school wing with space for 700, and an assembly room with a kitchen and serving pantry.
Occupied since 1996 by the congregation of Bethlehem Healing Temple, the building now suffers a plight shared by many historic churches: a decreasing and aging membership struggling to maintain the large historic structure. With no gutters, water has undermined exterior masonry, resulting in the partial collapse of one wall. Following years of deferred maintenance, the church’s roof failed a couple of years ago, necessitating emergency repairs.
In the meantime, the small congregation continues to hold services in the basement, though the critical water damage is painfully evident in crumbling plaster and peeling paint. Members are trying to raise funds for desperately needed repairs, but it’s an uphill battle.
Blake Swihart
Director
Indiana Landmarks Northwest Field Office
219-947-2657
bswihart@indianalandmarks.org
Dr. Veronica Watson-Gaffney
Executive Church Administrator
219-291-6510
bhtgi@secretary.net
Saving threatened buildings takes teamwork. You can be a part of that team. Reach out to local leaders. Let them know these buildings are important to you. And support state and local preservation groups.