Humboldt Park United Methodist Church

“We as a congregation have lost our Latinx families who have been displaced out of this neighborhood through the evils of gentrification.” That poignant statement, uttered by Reverend Paula Cripps-Vallejo, echoes the story of the Humboldt Park United Methodist Church. The church, a grand structure at 2122 N. Mozart St., has been a beacon of hope and community for nearly a century. Built in 1928, the Humboldt Park United Methodist Church initially served a German congregation. However, the shifting demographics of the city led to a change in 1968 when it became home to the Spanish-speaking Humboldt Park United Methodist congregation. This merger breathed new life into the church, making it a cornerstone of the Latinx community. The Humboldt Park United Methodist Church wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a lifeline for many. The church housed 12 affordable apartments, providing much-needed housing in the area. It also became a haven for victims of domestic violence, offering free counseling and support. Furthermore, the church extended its compassion to immigrants, providing free legal aid to those navigating the complexities of the legal system. This commitment to social justice found another outlet in 1989 when the church established the Humboldt Park Social Services. This ministry, later renamed the Center for Changing Lives, focused on aiding residents experiencing homelessness. The Humboldt Park United Methodist Church’s deep roots in the community make its current situation bittersweet. With gentrification driving out long-time residents, including members of its own congregation, the church made the difficult decision to sell its building. However, their commitment to affordable housing remained steadfast. Instead of selling to the highest bidder, they partnered with LUCHA, a respected affordable housing developer. LUCHA plans to renovate the existing apartments and adapt the sanctuary and fellowship space into ten more units, totaling 22 affordable homes. This project ensures that the Humboldt Park United Methodist Church’s legacy of compassion and support will endure, even as the physical space evolves. Although the congregation will eventually move on to a new location, the spirit of the Humboldt Park United Methodist Church, its dedication to service and its fight for affordable housing will forever be etched into the heart of the community.