Backstage at the Egyptian: An Interview with Paul DeHaven of Christ Community Church

Interview conducted by Brandon Pugh- Egyptian Theatre Intern.

Christ Community Church is a church with locations in St. Charles, DeKalb, Bartlett, and Aurora. Paul DeHaven serves as the pastor of Christ Community Church located in DeKalb located along Lincoln Highway, East of Northern Illinois Universities campus. In 1984, a group of six couples in St. Charles, Illinois, met regularly for Bible study. They began talking about starting a church. They wanted to launch a church that would appeal to their friends and neighbors who were missing out on a relationship with Jesus Christ. They hired a young pastor and began services on December 16, 1984, in a rented movie theater.

Brandon:  What is your job/position with the Church?

Paul: I serve as the Campus Pastor. I lead our staff team and coordinate efforts to serve our community.

Brandon: How long have you been with the Church?

Paul: I will celebrate my second anniversary in mid-December.

Brandon: Has the Church performed at the Egyptian Theatre in the past?

Paul: Last year we held our first Christmas concert in DeKalb at the Theatre. It was great to celebrate Christmas at this venue which has meant so much to our community through the years.

Brandon: Have you attended events at the Egyptian Theatre before?

Paul: My wife and I attended Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 2014.

Brandon: If yes, what is your favorite memory attending the theatre?

Paul: My favorite memory was actually the first time I walked into the theatre. I had lived in DeKalb for about a month when a friend wanted me to see the Theatre. We stopped and received a tour. I loved the architecture, decoration, and sense of history. I could not believe that such a great venue was in DeKalb. I knew immediately that we should have a concert there.

Brandon: If you could possess one talent you don’t already have, what would it be and why?

Paul: I wish I had a natural talent for playing guitar. I love music, and wish I could play in a band or imitate some of my favorite musicians. I play guitar a little bit, but I am always the weak link when I play with friends. I get jealous of those who can play at a higher level.

Brandon: What is one thing you enjoy most about working with the Church?

Paul: I love the friendships I get to make with our team, congregation, and members of the community. The more people I know, the more I get to hear stories of how Christ has transformed their lives—and that is exciting!

Find out more information about Christ Community Church, here!