Cathedral of Joy Baptist Church

Nestled in Cook County, Illinois, the Cathedral of Joy Baptist Church has a story to tell. The very ground we stand on sits at an elevation of 688 feet above sea level. You can even pinpoint its location on the Harvey, IL USGS topographic map. This church, with its predominantly African-American congregation, attempted a move to Hazel Crest, Illinois in 1988, sparking a legal battle that tested their faith and resilience. Reverend Samuel E. Hinkle, the heart and soul of the Cathedral of Joy Baptist Church, had his sights set on a former Ponderosa restaurant. The purchase hinged on securing a special use permit, a process more arduous than anticipated. The church submitted their application on April 1, 1988, represented by Reverend Hinkle and their attorney, Thomas Vaughn. They diligently attended meetings of the Hazel Crest Plan Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals, presenting their vision for the space. Yet, despite their efforts, both bodies voted against recommending their permit. On June 21, 1988, they attended a Village Board of Trustees meeting. Four out of the six trustees voiced their opposition. Although informed that the matter would be on the next regular board meeting agenda, they left before adjournment, unaware of the specific date. The Village Board ultimately denied their application on June 28, 1988. The Cathedral of Joy Baptist Church only learned of this decision three days later. The subsequent lawsuit, filed on June 29, 1990, claiming racial and religious discrimination, unfortunately, fell outside the statute of limitations. This legal battle, detailed in court documents, reveals the challenges faced by the Cathedral of Joy Baptist Church. It underscores their determination and unwavering commitment to their faith.