Beneath Chicagoland’s sprawling sky, Progressive Life-Giving Word Cathedral stands. It is not just a church. It embodies a journey of faith, resilience, and community impact.
Progressive Life-Giving Word Cathedral started humbly. In 1924, a small prayer group met at Mr. and Mrs. Solomon Street’s home. By 1925, Bishop William Roberts helped organize Maywood’s first Church of God in Christ. Their initial meeting place was in Sister Frances Autrey’s garage.
Mother Linner Grace, a convert under Bishop C. H. Mason, was a pillar. She brought coal and wood to heat the church. As the congregation grew, they moved to several locations in Maywood.
In 1927, Elder W. J. Greenlee became the first pastor. Pastors Edmund, Littlejohn, and Diggs followed. During Elder Diggs’ tenure, the church bought a home at 640 South 13th Avenue.
Evangelists kept the church running when it lacked a pastor. In 1941, Pastor Diggs introduced Elder James B. Alford and his family. Elder Alford became pastor in 1941.
Initially, people doubted Papa Alford’s staying power. He was given 90 days. He intended to leave. God intervened and renewed his strength. Church Mothers supported him with prayer.
In 1947, the church incorporated under Pastor James B. Alford’s leadership. He envisioned progress. Thus, the church became Progressive Church of God in Christ. Members added a basement during renovations.
By 1962, the congregation desired a better worship space. Mother E.M. Vann helped purchase a Jewish Synagogue. On April 1, 1962, members marched to their new home.
Papa Alford had a gift. He explained scripture simply. Old-time members remember him teaching on the communion table. The community recognized his devotion.
In 1975, his youngest son Donald joined the ministry. Donald served in many roles. In 1982, Donald implemented the 344-HOPE telephone line. Later, the Celebrate Your Recovery ministry formed.
Progressive’s music ministry flourished. The Senior Choir was organized in 1948. It started a rich musical heritage. The Youth Choral Ensemble followed in 1967.
In 1948, Progressive had its first live radio broadcast. The ministry also had a daily broadcast called “The Life-Giving Word”. The Senior Choir began recording in 1969.
Minister Donald Alford became Minister of Music in 1975. He wrote songs. The Radio Choir released several albums.
Papa Alford passed away in 1983. Elder Donald L. Alford became pastor. The saints rallied behind him.
In 1989, the ministry became Progressive Ministries. In 1990, it was renamed Progressive Life-Giving Word Cathedral. The scripture foundation was John 6:63.
Building on prayer, Pastor Donald Alford introduced new ideas. First Lady Gloria Alford and others served on his support team. The ministry expanded its outreach. It used television and evangelistic programs.
Progressive assisted in feeding and clothing approximately 20,000 individuals annually. Services were held at Proviso East High School.
In 1994, Elder Alford began to walk in the Office of Apostle. He restructured the ministry. The ministry licensed its first female ministers.
Progressive continued its outreach. The God Squad went door to door. The Prison Ministry was created. Progressive hosted homeless individuals.
In 1998, Progressive purchased the Joyeaux Community Center. In January 1999, the roof collapsed due to snowfall. God released a financial windfall.
In 2000, the ministry celebrated its 75th anniversary. The ministry gave away over $10,000 to needy families. The church’s motto became “Love Capital of the World”.
In April 2001, the Lowes Theatre in Hillside was placed for sale. Progressive purchased the property. On July 7, 2002, Progressive possessed the land.
Today, Progressive Life-Giving Word Cathedral continues. It stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon of hope and love.