“Oh Lord, We Thank You…” These words echo through the halls of Pleasant Green MB Church. Pleasant Green MB Church stands as a testament to faith and community. This is a story of Pleasant Green MB Church that spans over a century.
Pleasant Green MB Church began in 1918. It started at 3752 S. Federal Street in Chicago. The church moved in 1923 to 43rd and Calumet Avenue. In 1934, Pleasant Green MB Church relocated to a storefront at 2941 South Cottage Grove. Rev. William Newton led the congregation then.
In 1950, the church purchased a six-flat building. It was located at 4734-36 S. St. Lawrence Avenue. Services were held there. Pleasant Green MB Church moved again in 1957. This time to 6633 S. Normal Blvd.
A significant moment arrived on August 17, 1972. Under Reverend Dr. Oscar David Webster’s leadership, Pleasant Green MB Church acquired its current location. The address is 7545 S. Vincennes Avenue. This marked a new chapter for the church.
Many leaders shaped Pleasant Green MB Church. Reverend J.M. Haggard planted the seed in 1918. Reverend William Newton and Reverend C.W. Meadows nurtured it. Reverend Dr. Oscar David Webster and Reverend Melvin Hayes, Sr. provided guidance. In 2001, Reverend Walter W. Matthews, Sr. became the new leader.
Pleasant Green MB Church has a clear mission. It aims to honor Jesus Christ. The church wants to make disciples of all nations. This aligns with St. Matthew 28:18-20. Pleasant Green MB Church strives to reach those who do not know Christ. It seeks to help the poor and uplift the Christian community.
Pleasant Green MB Church serves as an equipping center. Every Christian can develop their full potential here. The goal is to build the Kingdom of God.
Pleasant Green MB Church emphasizes discipleship. It encourages a Kingdom-minded way of life. Members are taught to live transformed lives. This is achieved through life-changing discipleship ministry. It follows the teachings of Christ in St. Matthew 28:19.
Through the years, Pastor Matthews has guided the congregation. He focuses on restoring God’s priorities. He emphasizes that a disciple knows Christ. Disciples are changed by Christ and committed to His mission.
Pleasant Green MB Church provides various opportunities. Kingdom Minded Bible teachings are central. Each ministry plans community evangelism events. These include street corner worship and creative activities. Congregants participate in field days. They learn practical tools for living. Each member has a personal responsibility. They must develop the missionary within themselves. This helps bring Heaven to Earth.
The church offers “Equipping the Saints Training”. Adults, teens, and children learn about discipleship. They also study apologetics. Lessons cover identifying spiritual gifts. They learn how to share Christ and disciple others.
In 2018, Pleasant Green MB Church celebrated its 100th year. The focus was on “The Kingdom Minded Church Relationships”. The church highlighted that the relationship with God affects relationships with people. The vertical relationship with God is vital. It produces eternal results.
Through Bible training series, Pleasant Green MB Church continues to explore relationships. These include membership, stewardship, fellowship, and discipleship.
During the 2020 pandemic, Pleasant Green MB Church adapted. The congregation stayed connected. The pastor prayed for members. Ministry leaders were guided via conference calls. Weekly video messages were shared.
Church ministries made calls and sent texts. The Pastoral Care Ministry encouraged members. The Deacon Family Ministry checked on families. Communion was delivered to homes. An Intercessory Prayer Team prayed. The church office remained open. Staff addressed emergency needs. The Audio-Visual Ministry provided worship services via Facebook Live.
Congregants participated in “Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus Outreach”. They donated to service and equipping ministries. Items were given to seniors and the community.
Today in 2022, Pleasant Green MB Church continues. It rests safely in God’s arms. It upholds the banner of Jesus Christ. The church trusts and depends on Him. Pleasant Green marks history while moving forward. It connects people with God’s love. “It’s all about Him, His church, and His vision for His people”. The church’s theme is clear: “Pleasant Green, the church where the people are equipped for the work of the ministry.” Pleasant Green MB Church is led by Rev. Dr. Walter Wendell Matthews, Sr., Pastor.