Remember tragedy, resilience, and faith intertwine here. Parkwood Baptist Church stands as a testament to enduring hope. Established decades ago, this church has been a beacon of light. It is a testament to the strength of community in the face of adversity.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine the early days of Parkwood Baptist Church. It began humbly. In 1926, two men were assigned to pastor a congregation in Mt. Greenwood. They started in a portable building on Spaulding Avenue. A storm destroyed that initial structure in 1927. The congregation persevered. By 1939, they had grown to 99 members. More space was needed.
In 1942, a beautiful colonial-style church was dedicated at 10435 S. Spaulding Ave. The Chicago Baptists Association helped. Construction workers even slept on-site. They were protecting against thieves. In 1951, another portable building was added. Sadly, another storm destroyed it. The church added a basement in 1955. A fundraiser in 1960 brought in over $40,000. This helped build a new wing.
The 1980s brought uncertain times to Parkwood Baptist Church. But a new chapter began in 1988. Rev. Scott Willis became the pastor. He attracted families with children. When he arrived, there were only 35 members. The congregation grew. Bernard and Ruth Haskins were welcomed. They were the first African-American members.
In 1993, the Willis family moved into an apartment above the church. They joined neighborhood activities. Little League and wrestling became part of their lives. But tragedy struck in November 1994. The Willis family was traveling to see relatives. A freak accident occurred near Milwaukee. A bracket from a truck taillight fell off. It pierced their van’s gas tank. Sparks ignited a fire. Rev. Willis and his wife escaped. Sadly, six of their children perished in the blaze. Ben, Joe, Sam, Hank, Elizabeth, and Peter were lost.
The tragedy uncovered a scandal. Officials had taken bribes for illegal trucking licenses. George Ryan, then Secretary of State, was later convicted. Despite this immense loss, Rev. Willis and his wife remained strong. Their faith sustained them.
After the accident, the Willis Family moved from Chicago. In September 2000, Thorin Anderson became pastor. He continues to lead the church. In 2009, Parkwood Baptist Church purchased its current site. It was formerly owned by the Salvation Army.
In 2017, Rev. Scott Willis returned to Parkwood Baptist Church. It was for the church’s 90th-anniversary celebration. He shared an emotional visit with about 60 attendees. Many shared the influence he had on them. Armanda Nation, a member of Parkwood, was inspired by Janet Willis’s strength. She was battling leukemia at the time.
Today, Parkwood Baptist Church continues its mission. It stands as a beacon. It is a testament to faith. It is a family. It welcomes all who seek solace and community. As Pastor Anderson said, they are simply beggars. They are telling other beggars where to find bread. They offer a raft. They are helping others to be saved. The church remains confident in its message. It is a place where faith endures. It is a place where hope is always alive.