Cathedral Temple of Divine Love

A beacon of faith in Chicago, the Cathedral Temple of Divine Love has a captivating history. It all began in May 1966. Dr. Emmer H. Booker envisioned a place where people could come together for worship and fellowship. The Cathedral Temple of Divine Love was born from this vision. Initially, services were held in Dr. Booker’s home. This humble beginning laid the foundation for a thriving community. The church was officially established as a non-profit religious organization. Its goals were clear: to provide opportunities for worship, foster Christian fellowship, and promote love and understanding among all people. The Cathedral Temple of Divine Love has seen several pastors guide its congregation over the years. In 2002, Reverend Phillip L. Hudson, Jr. became the fifth pastor. He introduced a new church motto, “VICTORY,” and initiated various programs. These included Wednesday and Saturday Noon Day Prayer, monthly prayer services, and special services for women. The church also underwent physical transformations under Reverend Hudson’s leadership. Improvements included a new sound system, renovations to the Booker Fellowship Hall, new carpet in the sanctuary, and the restoration of stained-glass windows. A generous donation allowed for the purchase of a new outside sign, computers, and a church van. The youth choir was revived and renamed “The Divine Love Youth Choir.” A praise dance group and the Victory Choir were also formed. Reverend Hudson attributed these accomplishments to the dedication of the church members and divine blessings. Dr. Booker’s original prayer reflects the enduring spirit of the Cathedral Temple of Divine Love. He prayed for grace, wisdom, and resources to do God’s will, to be a healing balm in a troubled nation, and for love to always conquer hate. His prayer extended beyond the church’s walls, encompassing all races and creeds worldwide. The Cathedral Temple of Divine Love continues to stand as a testament to faith, resilience, and community.