“Imagine a lighthouse” I say. “That’s Olivet United Methodist Church. It stands as a beacon of love in its community.” Olivet United Methodist Church is located at 147 South Keeler Avenue in Chicago. For 110 years this church has evolved. It has changed with the city and its community.
Olivet United Methodist Church sees itself as a help center. It is committed to healing God’s people. This includes healing mentally and emotionally. It also includes healing physically and spiritually. The church wants to transform its community. It wants to bring new hope through Jesus Christ.
Olivet United Methodist Church believes in faith. They believe in using what you have. They strive to do the best they can. The church wants to embrace and encourage others. This echoes how Christ loved and saved them. Olivet United Methodist Church commits to dispelling darkness. It wants to break chains. It aims to bind what is not like God. They love their neighbors and God. They want to do so with all their heart. They will also use their strength, mind, body, and soul. This is their mission.
The congregation wants to edify its community. It focuses on mission and outreach. Olivet United Methodist Church shines. It comes alive by helping its community. The congregation sees problems. It tries to meet the needs of the Austin community.
Olivet United Methodist Church is a small congregation. However, they are thankful for help from sister congregations. Together they do food drives and clothing drives. They also provide school supplies. They offer monthly breakfasts to the community. Their warming ministry remains a core focus.
The core values have stayed the same over the years. Olivet United Methodist Church integrates Christ’s teachings. They follow the example of the First Church of Christ. They let the Holy Spirit guide them. They enlarge God’s territory through love. This happens through understanding God and his people.
Meet some of the people who lead Olivet United Methodist Church. Rev. Donald Wright is the pastor. Yvonnie Frazier is the Lay Leader. Angela Voice is the Church Council Chairperson. Safari Miller is the Youth Coordinator. Audra Freeman is the Usher President. Ronnie Walker is the Musician. Chester Lacey is the Worship Coordinator.
Olivet United Methodist Church remains a traditional church. It has freedom and flexibility. This helps it minister to its church family. The congregation includes people from the community. It reflects changing times in the nation. The community continues to attend services. This makes the church feel like it is doing something right. Olivet United Methodist Church is truly a lighthouse of love. It stands strong in its community.