Historic St. Cornelius Church Transforms Into 'The Church Club' Pickleball Venue in Jefferson Park

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park · February 7, 2026

Jefferson Park residents will soon have an exciting new recreational destination as the former St. Cornelius Church at 5430 W. Foster Avenue prepares to open as 'The Church Club' in early 2026. The innovative adaptive reuse project will transform the 1964 church building into a vibrant pickleball facility with a distinctive '60s vintage aesthetic featuring bright orange spinning chairs and olive-green mushroom lamps, all while preserving the structure's original architecture.

Along with two full pickleball courts in the former sanctuary, the facility will house billiards and dart rooms, flexible workspaces, and a commercial kitchen. The basement, which once served as a community assembly hall, will be converted into locker rooms, while the owner plans to maintain half of the basement with its original stage for community use. Importantly, the renovation preserves much of the church's architectural character, including its stunning stained glass windows and midcentury modern chandeliers.

The project has gained support from local officials, including Alderman James Gardiner, who appreciates that it preserves the exterior of the historic building while repurposing the interior for modern use. The facility is designed to have minimal impact on the neighborhood's traffic and parking. Jefferson Park residents interested in the project's progress can watch for updates as construction continues toward the early 2026 opening, bringing new life and recreational opportunities to this beloved neighborhood landmark.

Sources:
1. https://www.preservationchicago.org/win-former-st-cornelius-church-to-be-adaptively-reused-for-pickleball-courts-2/
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/03/closed-catholic-church-to-become-indoor-pickleball-clubhouse/
3. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/old-church-building-chicago-northwest-side-pickleball-club/
4. https://nadignewspapers.com/permit-issued-for-conversion-of-saint-cornelius-church-into-a-private-pickleball-club/