“What’s Zoom?” Pastors Steve and Charles asked in concert. That simple question marked a turning point for Hope Church Chicago during the pandemic. Let’s step inside the story of this church. Hope Chapel Foursquare Church serves as a spiritual hub. It is located at 9520 Merton Ave in Oak Lawn.
Hope Chapel Foursquare Church is part of a larger network. It embraces a mission to provide spiritual guidance. It uplifts its congregation. It contributes positively to community well-being. The church offers weekly worship services. It provides opportunities for fellowship. It caters to those seeking spiritual support and a sense of belonging.
The story of Hope Church Chicago began in September 2019. Charles and Donna Butler, Steve and Kerri Mason, Kenny Damara, and Scott and Aimee Lilly met. They prayed. They discussed starting a new congregation. They agreed on the name Hope Church Chicago.
In mid-October, Kenny and Charles met for breakfast. They chose Chicago Hope Café. The profits went to Chicago Hope Academy. This school was founded by a friend of Charles. A call to the founder led to a meeting at the school. God provided the place and the funds. Hope Church Chicago was becoming a reality.
Agreements were signed on December 4, 2019. Charles and Steve began holding Advent services on December 8. Hope Church Chicago was born.
Then, in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The governor shut down all schools. It seemed Hope Church was done after only 16 weeks. But God had a plan. Three men in the congregation worked in IT. They suggested holding services on Zoom. Rick Bovell, Arun Tikoo, and Bryan Butler got Hope Church running on Zoom. Only one Sunday was missed. The church remained on Zoom for 18 months. In-person worship resumed on Labor Day weekend 2021.
Shortly after re-opening, Pastor Steve sensed a change. He began a process with Winnetka Bible Church. He became senior pastor there on April 1, 2022. Hope Church Chicago continues under Pastor Charles’s leadership. Scott and Aimee Lilly joined the ministry in May 2022. Kenny Damara launched Hope In Truth Ministries in India.
Hope Church Chicago is part of the Foursquare Church. The Foursquare Gospel is not new. It is the same gospel from the early church. Foursquare describes four aspects of the New Testament. These are Jesus Christ the Savior, the Baptizer with the Holy Spirit, the Healer, and the Soon-Coming King.
Hope Chapel believes in the Trinity. They believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The church proclaims the Bible as true. They practice Water Baptism and regularly observe Communion.
Hope Chapel values love. They value serving and humility. They value faith and honor. They value unity and generosity. Hope Church Chicago invites you to become a member. They focus on being Christ-centered, Bible-based, and Spirit-empowered. They reach out with the Good News of Jesus through seven Hope congregations. These are located in Chicago and the suburbs.
Join Hope Church Chicago every Sunday at 4:00 pm. Be a part of their story. Experience their community.