Whispers of faith echo through time. This is New Bethlehem #4 MB Church. Right here on South Cottage Grove Avenue.
New Bethlehem #4 MB Church a cornerstone of Chicago’s South Side. Its history stretches back to 1901. A small group of devoted Christians founded it. They sought fellowship and worship. Their first church stood on Eighteenth Street and Eleventh Alley. A fire tragically destroyed it in 1918. Undeterred they met in homes then a tent.
Reverend A C Burkes became pastor. The “New” was added to the church’s name. Several pastors followed. Reverend J F Steele served from 1950 to 1977. Under his leadership the first brick structure arose. It stands proudly at Eleventh Avenue and Eighteenth Street. He emphasized tithing. He revived church auxiliaries. He began construction of the Educational Building.
In 1978 Reverend William H Walker Sr. became pastor. He was a powerful man of God a dynamic preacher. His leadership doubled the membership. He added new ministries. He expanded existing ones. Many ministries thrived under his guidance. Men’s Youth Outreach Ministry flourished. The Honor Roll Awards Program recognized achievements. Sisterhood/Brotherhood Fellowship strengthened bonds. The church ordained ministers. It provided classes for Sunday School teachers. Prayer meetings and Bible studies enriched spiritual lives. A vibrant media ministry spread the word. The church welcomed newcomers with open arms. They offered classes for new converts. Spiritual retreats provided opportunities for reflection and growth. Recreational ministries fostered community. The church provided transportation through a van ministry. A security team ensured safety. A youth prayer meeting provided spiritual guidance. The Pastor’s Aid Ministry supported the pastor’s work. Annual all-night retreats deepened faith.
In 1992 plans for a new sanctuary began. Groundbreaking occurred in 1997. The old sanctuary was renovated in 2001. It now houses a large Fellowship Hall. A commercial kitchen and a recreation center were added. Hambrite and Son Contractors completed the work. Deacon Hambrite a staunch member of the church oversaw the project. The new sanctuary seats approximately 1800 people. It boasts a pastor’s study a rehearsal hall a nursery an emergency medical room. There are also parental/bridal rooms. Offices for the Welcome Ministry security guard secretary and tape ministry are also present. A large daycare completed in 2003 quickly filled to capacity with a waiting list. On June 29 2003 a mortgage-burning ceremony celebrated the church’s debt-free status. The educational building was fully renovated.
New Bethlehem #4 MB Church stands as a testament to unwavering faith and community. Its story continues to unfold. This house of worship remains a beacon of hope. It stands as a pillar of strength in Chicago’s vibrant community.