“Once planted, now rooted.” That’s how the story of Christ Church Chicago could begin. This church started as a dream for Chicago. In 1998, leaders David R. Helm and Jon M. Dennis wanted to be part of something bigger. Thirty-seven adults formed a small congregation in Hyde Park. Their vision was a gospel-centered church. This church would create long-term change in Chicago and beyond.
For twenty years, the Hyde Park congregation met in different places. These locations spanned Hyde Park and Kenwood. Over time, Christ Church Chicago grew. It expanded to four congregations across the city. These congregations were in the North, West, South, and Center.
In 2020, church leaders considered a new step. They prayed about planting Holy Trinity Hyde Park as a new church. This new church would be called Christ Church Chicago. After prayer and divine guidance, Christ Church Chicago bought a new building. The aim was to deepen roots on Chicago’s South Side and throughout the city.
What followed was a major project. The historic building underwent extensive renovation. Workers restored decorative plaster and art glass. They installed new auditorium seating. Classrooms were added to support the church’s mission.
October 2nd, 2022 marked a significant day. Christ Church Chicago officially dedicated its new space. Dedication and Celebration services marked the occasion.
Christ Church Chicago has clear values. They believe the Bible is God’s Word. They value equipping themselves with God’s Word. The church wants to know it and be transformed by it. They strive to listen and submit their lives to it.
The gospel is central to Christ Church Chicago. It is the message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The church believes the gospel transforms believers. They share the gospel through words and actions.
Jesus holds all authority. Christ Church Chicago seeks to submit to his rule. They believe family extends beyond blood relations. Their faith family includes those pursuing Christ together.
Mercy is a core value. Members extend God’s mercy to others. They offer relief to those in need. Community matters. The church values diversity. Racial, cultural, and socio-economic diversity enriches their faith community.
Christ Church Chicago embraces weakness. They rely on prayer and the Holy Spirit. The church partners with organizations. They work to advance the gospel. They strive to be a light in Woodlawn. They host events to connect with the neighborhood.
The Gospel Justice Center offers legal aid. Christ Church Chicago hosts this center. People can schedule sessions with attorneys. Support is provided for legal issues. These issues include divorce, custody, and housing matters.
Young Life ministers to students. Christ Church Chicago partners with them. They support Young Life’s activities. The church also partners with Parkshore Nursing Home. They hold worship services for residents.
Community Groups are central to the church. They meet weekly in homes. They study the Bible and share life together. During winter, there is an all-congregation study. It replaces community groups for eight weeks. All are invited to dinner and study.
Joe Pace and Dillon Murphy are key leaders. Joe has extensive ministry experience. Dillon assists with community engagement. Together, they serve the church and the community. Christ Church Chicago continues to grow. It impacts lives in Chicago and beyond.