A fire. A devastating fire. That’s how many remember the Apostolic Faith Temple’s past. But before the flames consumed its former structure a rich history unfolded. The Apostolic Faith Temple wasn’t always located where it stands today. Its journey began in 1924 under the leadership of Elder Charles H Hutchins. The church found its first home at 1307 W Hastings Street.
From there the Apostolic Faith Temple moved several times. It briefly resided on Blue Island Avenue. Then it relocated to 1402 W Roosevelt Road. This wasn’t merely a change of address. Each move reflected the growing congregation and its unwavering faith. It was during this period of relocation that the church experienced its first significant setback.
Tragedy struck on May 25 1958. A fire destroyed the church building. The congregation suffered a great loss. However their faith remained steadfast. They found comfort in the belief that even in tragedy God’s purpose prevails. Elder Samuel M Barnes who succeeded Elder Hutchins then passed away shortly thereafter in November 1958. His successor Elder D R Bell began the search for a new home.
After careful consideration Elder Bell chose a design by architect Joel Hillman. The result was the current Apostolic Faith Temple. A magnificent structure dedicated to God’s service. The dedication took place on June 19 1960. This building not only serves as a place of worship but also houses Samuel Barnes Christian Academy and D R Bell Apostolic Bible College. The Apostolic Faith Temple is more than just a church. It is a testament to resilience faith and the enduring power of the spirit. It stands as a beacon of hope a place where stories of faith continue to unfold. Today it’s a vibrant community center for spiritual growth and education. The Apostolic Faith Temple stands as a symbol of unwavering faith and resilience in the face of adversity. It continues to serve as a spiritual home for many. A testament to its enduring legacy.