A community of faith rooted in hospitality and love

because it takes a village.

Join us for worship on Sundays at 10:00 AM.

CHLC is a welcoming community. Our diversity reflects God’s creation, and our shared unity is in Christ. Our history of welcoming refugees has extended to the work of anti-racism, uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community, and equity. We are an ELCA congregation rooted in the gospel message of Christ’s love and justice for all. We openly welcome and affirm YOU: your race, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, as well as those of you who may have been excluded because of other human distinctions such as ability, age, addictions, mental health, imprisonment or economic status. We are committed to being the body of Christ because we believe: it takes a village.

who we are →

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Urban & Historic

CHLC is nestled in the East Village of Des Moines. We are surrounded by an eclectic mix of restaurants, businesses and government buildings. This historic-yet-modern context shapes much of our ministry and identity. From serving our neighbors through our Clothes Closet or volunteering with UBFM, many of our ministries and partnerships focus on supporting our neighbors.

Worship & Education

Worship is at the heart of who we are. Our worship services utilize traditional liturgy with modern elements. We worship and study the Bible in several different languages and with multiple generations and demographics. Join one of our bible studies or classes to grow in your faith.

Service & Outreach

We know that it truly takes a village to care for our neighbors and be the Body of Christ in the World. That’s why we are passionate about supporting the Village and all of the people in it. We work closely with area agencies and non-profits to make sure that all have access to and receive the most basic needs, all experience welcome, and that all know they are loved by God.

Learn about our Clothes Closet →

Read about our Ministry Partners →

Music & the Arts

CHLC has a long history of celebrating music and the arts. Our musically gifted members provide meaningful music throughout the year. We occasionally host art installations, utilize our Worship Arts Committee, and tend to our historic sanctuary.

Weddings at CHLC

Congratulations on your engagement! At CHLC you will find the opportunity to craft a wedding ceremony as unique as your love.

We believe in a strong foundation for your marriage. Rev. Minna provides meaningful premarital counseling to give you tools to navigate the ins and outs of your new life-togeter.