Vision Fellowship Chapel as more than just a building. See it as a beacon. It shines with history, hope, and community spirit. Welcome to Fellowship Chapel.
Fellowship Chapel’s story began in 1966. Reverend James E. Wadsworth Jr. and 100 founding members started it all. They first gathered at Hall Metropolitan Funeral Home. Later, they met at Diggs Funeral Home. In October 1967, they finally had their own space at 18495 Wyoming.
The congregation grew quickly. They outgrew their building. The members rallied together. They bought a new church at 19555 West McNichols. The dedication took place on August 10, 1980.
Reverend Wendell Anthony played a vital role. He was ordained by Rev. Wadsworth in 1983. He became the first Associate Pastor of Fellowship Chapel. After Rev. Wadsworth passed in 1986, Rev. Anthony took over. The congregation unanimously approved.
Fellowship Chapel expanded its ministry. In October 1986, Opal M. Simmons became the first Minister of Christian Education. This marked a new era of service. It focused on Christian Education for the church and community.
The ministry kept growing. Pastor Anthony welcomed assistant ministers. Maynard M. Golden and Velva D. Burley joined in 2001. Mayowa L. Reynolds followed in 2005. Rev. Dr. Constance Simon was ordained in 2012. She became the Second Minister of Christian Education.
Under Rev. Anthony’s leadership, the church thrived. Its ministries provided spiritual guidance. They also offered social and civic enrichment. This benefited both members and the community.
Fellowship Chapel’s mission is clear. It is dedicated to Jesus Christ. It seeks to bring people to Him. The church aims to develop a total life. This includes spiritual, physical, economic, social, and mental well-being.
The church’s logo holds deep meaning. The pyramid represents African heritage. The bitter cup symbolizes Christ’s agony. The cross stands for Christ’s crucifixion. The banner and crown show Christ’s resurrection and victory.
The pinnacle of the week is Sunday worship. It is designed for all ages. Sunday School starts at 8:15 am. Classes are available for adults and young people. The Sunday Worship Service follows at 9:30 am. There are also concurrent services for children and teens.
Fellowship Chapel needed more space. Pastor Anthony envisioned a new Fellowship Chapel Village. A building expansion committee formed. They founded the Amandla Community Development Corporation. Amandla means empower the people. Through Amandla, land was secured for the church.
In January 2002, the vision became real. There was a groundbreaking for the new church. It is located at 7707 West Outer Drive. The dedication happened on June 5, 2005. Over 2,000 people marched from the old location to the new Fellowship Chapel.
Fellowship Chapel stands as a testament. It shows faith, growth, and community. It remains dedicated to its Christ-centered and African-centered heritage. It welcomes all on a spiritual journey.