Can you feel the echoes of history resonating from West Point Baptist Church? This church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. West Point Baptist Church began in April 1917. A group of African Americans gathered. Guided by the Holy Spirit, they formed a church. They wanted a place to worship God and serve others. Many African American churches were named after Southern cities. This honored the origins of their founders. West Point Missionary Baptist Church was named after West Point Mississippi. Rev R.H. Harmon of West Point Mississippi became the first pastor. His immediate task was to find a permanent worship space.
During the late 1800s Chicago became a haven for Southerners. They sought better opportunities. Chicago was their Promised Land. The influx of African Americans led to designated residential areas. Bronzeville became a prominent community. Black residents needed their own churches. White congregations often excluded them. However white churches started moving out of Bronzeville. This created vacant worship spaces.
In the winter of 1917 West Point Baptist Church acquired the old St. Mark Methodist Episcopal Church. Completed in 1865 it once served as a chapel for Camp Douglas during the Civil War. The purchase price was $22000. Today the original building is 142 years old. West Point Baptist Church still owns and operates it. The church has preserved a hidden gem. A U.S. president and Confederate soldiers worshipped there long ago.
Rev James H. Brown succeeded Rev. Harmon. He served from 1922 to 1972. Rev. Brown oversaw significant church growth. He envisioned a new modern facility. His vision materialized in 1972 shortly before his death. Rev. Dr. Carroll J. Thompson became the third pastor in 1972. He served until 1997. Dr. Thompson quickly paid off the mortgage for the new building. He was known for his compassion. He regularly visited the sick and homebound.
Rev Corey Brooks became the fourth pastor in 1997. He introduced new worship styles. The church experienced substantial growth during his tenure. In 2001 Rev. Dr. L. Bernard Jakes became the fifth pastor. He brought healing and restoration. Dr. Jakes initiated Operation Divine Restoration. This project redesigned remodeled and restored the church building. He also led the construction of town homes. He created new community ministries. In 2010 Dr. Jakes started calling West Point the faith family of West Point Missionary Baptist Church.
West Point Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith service and community. Its history spans over a century. It continues to serve God by serving humanity. The church welcomes all to join in worship. Sunday services begin at 10:00 am. Bible study is held virtually on Wednesday evenings. West Point Baptist Church is more than just a building. It’s a family of faith. It is committed to making a difference in the world.