Chicago church 50th anniversary

In early July, Shepherd’s Community Church (South Holland, Illinois), along with Pastor Willard and Brenda High, hosted a celebration of the 50th anniversary of GCI’s Chicago Southside and Hammond, Indiana congregations. Over 400 people attended the 3-day-long Jubilee Celebration, traveling from throughout the US. Guests included Dr. Joseph Tkach, Ms. Helen Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Allan Barr, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Abels, Curtis and Jannice May, Mr. Frederick Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. James Tate and Mr. Albert Atlas.

The celebration began Friday evening with a Meet & Greet. Saturday festivities began with a worship service that included video greetings from the Schmedes and Perkins families, a presentation of the history of the Chicago Southside and Hammond churches and several musical selections by the Shepherd’s Adult Choir (pictured at left). The service concluded with remembrances and words of encouragement from some of the guests.

During the service, recognition was given to Jesse and Audrey Bellamy, Eugene and Juanita Dumas and Dolphus and Barbara Williamson. All had served the Chicago Southside church for most of its history. Assistant Pastor Barbara Williamson was recognized for her recent ordination—she is the congregation’s first female elder.

Over 320 people attended a dinner dance on Saturday evening. A highlight was the awarding of Mary Lee Bellamy Scholarships to four attendees for outstanding academics and community service. The Jubilee Celebration then ended on Sunday with a gospel/jazz brunch with music from the congregation’s worship band and vocal selections from guests.