“The Place of Peace and Love.” That’s how the West Pullman Church of God describes itself. It stands as a beacon of faith in the West Pullman community.
Let’s explore the story of this church. It has a history spanning over a century. The West Pullman Church of God’s journey began in 1909. The first meeting was held in a member’s home. Pastor Lena Daul led the small group. Initially, services were conducted in German. This was the native language of many members.
In 1910, the congregation grew. They rented a local assembly hall. It was located on 119th-120th and Parnell. They also rented space in other West Pullman churches. Pastors Zena Wruck and Daul jointly ministered to the congregation.
A significant step occurred in 1930. The church purchased a house. It was on 118th and Yale. The house was converted into their first church building. The first floor became a sanctuary. It could seat 100 people. A choir stand accommodated 30 singers. The upstairs served as a parsonage.
In 1949, Pastor W.T. Wallace became the pastor. He continued building efforts started by Pastor Marvin Proctor. In 1951, the West Pullman Church of God moved. It moved to its current location at 322 W 119th St. Shortly after, Rev. Herbert Wallace succeeded his father as pastor.
Over the years, several pastors served the church. They also served the wider community. These pastors included Melvin Moody from 1960 to 1967 and Edward G. McCullough from 1968 to 1973.
In 1973, an important merger took place. Washington Boulevard Church of God joined West Pullman Church of God. Pastor Essex Alexander from Washington Boulevard Church of God became the Pastor of Christian Education. Rev. Eddie Downey served as Senior Pastor. For ten years, these two pastors led the congregation together.
Other pastors who steered the church include Eddie Downey from 1973-1980 and Benjamin Leon from 1980-1983.
1983 marked a turning point. The church called Pastor Samuel Strachan. He brought stability and faithful leadership. He developed new programs and relationships. Pastor Strachan retired in December 2017. He was recognized as the longest-serving pastor. He served for 34 years.
In February 2018, the West Pullman Church of God welcomed Pastor Josh Reese. He began his ministry in March 2018. Pastor Reese honored Rev. Samuel Strachan. He established an annual day in his honor. It is held on the first Sunday of December. Pastor Reese continues the legacy. He empowers the church. It should be known as “The Place of Peace and Love”.
Pastor Reese is a graduate of Robert Morris College. He earned an Associates of Applied Science in Business Administration. He also holds degrees from Hope Bible Institute and Seminary.
Before coming to West Pullman, Pastor Reese founded House of True Worship in Gary, Indiana. He also served as Overseer of Northwest Indiana Antioch Network of Churches and Ministries.
Today, West Pullman Church of God continues to thrive. It has over 100 years of ministry behind it. The church looks forward to its future. It hopes to continue serving its community.
Remember the West Pullman Church of God. It stands as a testament to faith. It embodies love and peace within the community.