“Christ Died for our Sins.” That neon sign atop the bell tower tells a story. It shines as a beacon for Uptown Baptist Church. This church has a unique history. It reflects the changing face of Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood.
Uptown Baptist Church wasn’t always Uptown Baptist Church. The building was completed in 1906. It belonged to North Shore Congregational Church. In 1942, they put up that neon sign. It’s still there today.
North Shore sold the building to Uptown Baptist in the early 1980s. North Shore then merged with another church. Uptown Baptist Church had been founded in 1976. It began with services in a home. Later, they met in a warehouse. The Chicago Metropolitan Baptist Association wanted a church in this neighborhood.
Uptown in the 1970s was different from today. It struggled with alcoholism and gangs. There was also drug use and prostitution. The association hoped a church could help.
Uptown Baptist Church is a member of the Southern Baptist Convention. The Southern Baptists started in 1845. This was after a split over slavery. It took until 1995 for them to apologize.
Uptown Baptist reflects the diversity of its community. It has a large African American population. The church also embraces people from all walks of life. Senior Pastor Nick Kim welcomes everyone.
The church is known for its music. The band includes drums, organ, piano, and guitar. Three singers lead the congregation in songs. The services are energetic. People dance, sing, and clap.
Uptown Baptist Church is active in planting new churches. Over 35 years, it has helped start at least 30 churches. Six ethnic churches meet in its building. This reflects the church’s mission. They want to reach all people groups.
Uptown Baptist gives 12 percent of its budget to missions. This includes the Cooperative Program. It also helps the Chicago Metro Baptist Association. They are committed to spreading the Gospel.
Uptown Baptist Church began as a church plant. Now, it supports other new churches. This shows a cycle of giving back. The church strives to exemplify Christ’s love. It lives out his calling to love all nations. Uptown Baptist Church welcomes anyone. All are invited to join their journey toward Christ. They gather to worship through songs and teaching. They proclaim God’s word. Remember the words illuminated by the neon sign high above. Uptown Baptist Church extends an invitation to all.