Brief History of Fox Valley Unity

In 1973 twelve people came together on Thursday evenings to form a study group in Linda Dillard’s kitchen. This small but mighty group set the stage and established the consciousness that grew into the vibrant spiritual community we know today as “Fox Valley Unity.”

This initial study group soon outgrew Laura’s kitchen and moved into a small renovated house on River Street in Aurora. During this time Rev. Richard Billings, minister at Oak Park Unity, filled the role of teacher and acted as the group’s spiritual leader.

The group continued to grow and thrive and this led to taking the bold step of renting space in a Lutheran school in Geneva. Laura Dillard taught on Thursday nights and Sunday services were conducted by lay spiritual leaders as the group moved closer to being formalized as a church. By the end of 1975 35 people were meeting regularly and again they needed more space. To more comfortably accommodate services and classes they moved to a local community center.

With the help of the Association of Unity Churches, Rev. Scott Sherman and his wife, Judy, come to guide this committed group of people through the process of incorporating. “Unity in the Valley” enrolled its charter members in October, 1976 and was officially designated a church.

Among those who have served this congregation from its inception are:

• Ed Dawson
• Genevieve Campbell
• John Williams
• Bob McCartney
• Jean Waddington
• Bev Kline
• Geoff Davis
• Marciah McCartney

We acknowledge them and extend our sincere thanks.

In 1990, following the urgings of Spirit, the congregation voted to establish a permanent home in Batavia. A building was purchased on Webster Street and the church’s name was changed to “Fox Valley Unity.” This location has truly become our very own “Miracle on Webster Street.”

When you visit us today, you will see that our Youth education is a very important part of Fox Valley Unity. Almost half of our physical space is devoted to our youth, and that space has been newly remodeled. Adult education is ongoing and led under the direction of our minister, Rev Jan Little, and our Licensed Spiritual Teacher, Marge Orchard. We have a vibrant music ministry and the congregation is involved in many areas of Sacred Service and Community Outreach.

Come join us any Sunday at 10:00 am for worship and stay afterward for a cup of coffee and a treat in our “Sacred Grounds Café.”