Founded in 1915 the Apostolic Faith Church stands proudly on South Indiana Avenue. This isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith resilience and community. Elder A R Schooler started it all. He and a small group met in a home for weekly worship. Soon they moved to a four-flat building at 3813 South Indiana Avenue. This became the Apostolic Faith Church’s first home.
The church grew. It faced challenges. The Great Depression hit hard. Yet the church thrived. John Silas Holly became pastor in 1931. He and his wife Effie transformed the four-flat into a two-story church with a 500-seat auditorium. They paid off the mortgage during the Depression. Their faith was remarkable.
In 1980 Horace E Smith became pastor. He was a pediatric hematologist-oncologist. He balanced his demanding career with his church duties. He expanded the church building. He led the Apostolic Faith Church to new heights. He achieved influential partnerships that revolutionized ministry worldwide.
Today the Apostolic Faith Church continues its mission. It worships and glorifies God. It builds a Christian community. It wins souls for Christ. It disciples believers. Christ is pre-eminent in every life. The church offers many ministries. These include children’s youth and adult ministries. There are also community service programs and counseling.
The Apostolic Faith Church’s core values are proclamation worship teaching community service and stewardship. Its vision is to transform people into missionaries for Christ. Generations of faith have shaped this church. It remains a beacon of hope in Chicago. It’s a place of spiritual growth and community. It’s a place where people find faith and fellowship. This remarkable church continues to impact lives. It lives out its mission of faith service and love.