Hi, I’m Church Club.
What began as a passion project evolved into something so much greater.
Born as a Catholic church; reborn as a pickleball facility and event space.
My unique story begins in 1964, in the calm but vibrant neighborhood of Jefferson Park.
I was once the sacred gathering space of St. Cornelius Parish, built to house a growing congregation that had outgrown its home. I was lined with pews, adorned with midcentury modern chandeliers, and ornamented with vivid and expressive stained glass. I was a sanctuary both traditional and modern, and my halls echoed with prayers, songs, and celebrations for decades, serving thousands of families across this diverse and welcoming community.
All of that changed in 2020, when my parish merged with another, and my doors began to close. Before long, my congregation had left, and I was no longer a place of worship. My once-sacred halls remained quiet for years to come.
But even though my purpose had changed, my mission was still the same. I was meant to be a gathering space for the people of Jefferson Park. All it took was enough people wanting my story to continue. And now, though I may look the same on the outside, a whole new generation of community grows within.
If you visit me today, you may be surprised. Where there were once dozens of pews, fresh and spacious pickleball courts now lie. Rec rooms have become game rooms, tables of worship have become places to gather and drink, and my sacristy has been turned into a fully functioning commercial kitchen. My stained glass now illuminates recreation and reverie. My chandeliers now light games of shuffleboard and darts. My halls now echo with laughter, joy, and the sounds of the game. But even in this transformation, my purpose has remained: bringing people together, creating memories, and remaining a cherished part of the Jefferson Park community.
I have been many things, but I have not lost my soul. Church Club is here to embrace this new chapter of my life.
Great minds dink alike.
Chris Petrick
Through every step, we've focused on staying true to our values and making space for thoughtful, lasting work.
Founder
We build with clarity, act with integrity, and always stay curious.
Founder
We build with clarity, act with integrity, and always stay curious.
Founder
We build with clarity, act with integrity, and always stay curious.