Truevine Baptist Church

Is this the hallowed ground where the spirit of faith took root? Right here, at 5932-38 W. Division Street, stands the Truevine Baptist Church. Truevine Baptist Church isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to a community’s unwavering belief and a journey guided by faith. The church’s story began in 1967, a testament to the vision of four dedicated deacons: Willie F. Jordan Sr., Govan Campbell, John Collins Jr., and Saul Goner. They saw a need, a spiritual void that needed filling, and thus, Truevine Baptist Church was born. Their first home was a humble abode at 3226 W. Roosevelt Road. The congregation thrived, growing in numbers and spirit. Even without a pastor initially, their faith never wavered. The Truevine Baptist Church family welcomed Rev. Walter Coolidge as their first pastor, followed by Rev. Curtis Brooks. In a beautiful testament to unity and shared faith, the congregation of United Baptist Church, led by Rev. L.C. Caver, merged with Truevine Baptist Church. Their journey led them from Roosevelt Road to a new address at 5950 W. Chicago Avenue in 1974. But their spiritual home awaited them elsewhere. In 1982, the Truevine Baptist Church found its current sanctuary on Division Street. It was a labor of love. The pastor, deacons, members, and even kind souls like Bobbie Williams and Alex Bruno, rolled up their sleeves to breathe new life into the building. Finally, on a blessed Sunday, December 22, 1982, they marched into their new home. The air resonated with prayers and hymns as Rev. Forrest Norvell of St. Rest MBC led the dedication and Rev. Willie A. Kelly of Rising Sun MBC delivered the first sermon. This marked the beginning of a new chapter. Truevine Baptist Church continued to flourish, its roots running deep in faith, unity, and service. The church’s legacy is one of resilience, faith, and community. It stands as a symbol of hope and a beacon of faith in the heart of Chicago.