Founded in 2001 the Chicago Japanese Mission Church stands as a testament to faith and community. Its story begins with Reverend Yugo and Keiko Kobari. They started outreach in Chicagoland suburbs in 1996. They planted the church for Japanese speakers and their families. The church became a Southern Baptist Convention church.
Construction began in 2003. The church purchased two acres in Arlington Heights. In 2009 the Chicago Japanese Mission Church transitioned. It became a self-supporting SBC church. A major milestone arrived in 2014. The first worship service was held in the new building. The church dedication followed shortly after. The Village of Arlington Heights granted a certificate of occupancy.
The Chicago Japanese Mission Church isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant hub for the Japanese community in the Chicago area. It’s a place where traditions are upheld and new generations are nurtured in their faith. The church provides a connection to their heritage while embracing their new home.
Many Japanese Americans live in the Chicagoland area. The church serves as a focal point for this dispersed community. Its existence reflects the long history of Japanese presence in Chicago. This history stretches back to the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Many Japanese came to Chicago to work on the Ho-o-den Pavilion.
The church’s location in Arlington Heights is strategic. It’s convenient for the many Japanese who work in the business environment around O’Hare airport. The church serves as a spiritual anchor in a bustling suburban setting.
The Chicago Japanese Mission Church continues its important work. It serves the Japanese-speaking community and their families. The church is a place of spiritual comfort and connection. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of faith. The church welcomes all who seek a sense of belonging and purpose. It is a testament to the strength of the Japanese community.