What began with Swedish immigrants seeking religious freedom and community in a new land has grown into a multigenerational church family. For over a century, God has been faithful to First Free, sustaining us through changing times while keeping us rooted in His unchanging Word. Here's the story of how we got here.
1876
Swedish Roots Take Hold
Swedish immigrant believers gather in Moline, laying the spiritual groundwork for what would become First Free. Their passion for the gospel and independent faith fueled everything that followed.
1890
A Church is Born
On October 14th, thirty charter members officially organized The Free Swedish Evangelical Free Church of Moline — independent, gospel-centered, and ready to grow.
1891
A Heart for the World
Just one year after founding, the church sent its first missionary, Dora Lindvall, to China. From the beginning, First Free was a church that looked beyond its own walls.
1890
A Church is Born
On October 14th, thirty charter members officially organized The Free Swedish Evangelical Free Church of Moline — independent, gospel-centered, and ready to grow.
1891
A Heart for the World
Just one year after founding, the church sent its first missionary, Dora Lindvall, to China. From the beginning, First Free was a church that looked beyond its own walls.
1926
A Home to Call Their Own
A new building at 1901 12th Street was dedicated by EFCA President Dr. E.A. Hallene, marking a season of growth and permanence in the Moline community.
1976
Putting Down Deeper Roots
The congregation moved into its current home at 3321 7th Street — a space built to serve the community for generations to come.
1990
Shepherd's Fold Preschool
On January 8th, the church launched Shepherd's Fold Preschool, extending its ministry to the youngest members of the community and their families.
2015
125 Years Strong
More than a century of God's faithfulness on display — a church sustained not by its own strength, but by the grace of the One who called it into being.
