Could a simple coffee meeting spark a movement? In 2007, Trey Hall and Christian Coon met at a Corner Bakery. They dreamed of a new kind of church. This church would be grounded in Jesus. It would affirm all people. It would have multiple sites to nurture communities reflecting Chicago’s neighborhoods. This vision led to the creation of Village Free Church.
Urban Village Church’s journey began in 2010. 150 people attended the first worship service. It took place in the South Loop neighborhood. A movement had begun.
Village Free Church is a multi-denominational community. People from diverse backgrounds are welcome. They can connect to deepen their understanding of Jesus. They can participate in God’s work in the world. The church is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. This denomination emphasizes God’s love, spirituality, and justice. It also emphasizes the calling to make a difference.
Village Free Church has a clear mission. It aims to create Jesus-loving and inclusive communities. These communities will ignite the city. The church holds several core beliefs. God reaches out to people in different ways. The Bible is a beautiful, God-inspired book. All people are expressions of God’s creative beauty. Sin is real and salvation is found in one another. Grace is the love and compassion God shows. The goal is to help people fall in love with God.
The church strives to embody anti-racist values. It celebrates the gifts of queer Christians. Village Free Church believes in right relationships. The church values people over rigid beliefs. People can belong before they fully believe.
Several leaders guide Village Free Church. Jonathan Grace is the Lead Pastor. Dr. Pamela Lightsey serves as a Site Pastor. Abby Holcombe and Juan Pablo Herrera are also Site Pastors. Darren Calhoun is the Digital Pastor. Melissa Kirk serves as Executive Administrator. Nik Rana directs Communications and Digital Media. Jea Ramiro is a Pastor Intern.
The church operates with several leadership teams. The Vision Team guides the church’s mission. The Staff-Parish Relations Committee supports the staff. The Finance Team manages the church’s resources. The Anti-Racism Team promotes anti-racist values.
Village Free Church reflects Chicago’s diverse communities. It welcomes everyone. The church offers various ministries and activities. It seeks to make a positive impact locally and globally. As you stand here, remember the simple coffee meeting. Remember the dreams it sparked. Village Free Church continues to evolve. It continues to serve as a beacon of faith, inclusion, and love in the city.