The city of Chicago and its residents have spent months preparing for this week’s Democratic National Convention (DNC) and the influx of delegates, media, and protestors it would bring. Perhaps none more so than those in the neighborhood surrounding the United Center where the convention is being held. One of those neighbors is Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, an Illinois Baptist State Association cooperating church, which sits in the shadow of the United Center.
The church is one of several buildings and homes in the area surrounded by a 2-mile perimeter fence for safety reasons during the DNC. Nathan Carter, Chicagoland Baptist Associational Mission Strategist, has been working with the church and he said part of their preparation has included prayer.
When demonstrators threatened the church building, their prayers were answered.
On Monday night (August 19), demonstrators protesting the Israel-Hamas war marched towards the United Center and partially breached a section of the fence in front of the church. Chicago police were able to regain control and arrested four protestors according to ABC News.
Later Carter remarked, “So far God has been gracious to protect their [ the church] property.” He said they would appreciate continued prayers as protests are expected to continue through end of the DNC Thursday evening (August 22).
Demonstrators protesting the Israel-Hamas war breach the perimeter fence in front of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church. Screenshot Daily Signal
But the church’s location is a blessing. “The church has a Gospel presence in the thick of where it’s happening. God is continuing to use them,” Carter said.
Pilgrim Rest sits inside a $7 billion private investment project, the 1901 Project, that plans to develop the neighborhood with a mix of restaurants, entertainment venues, and affordable housing units. Carter and the church are working together on how to best “engage and minister to their changing neighborhood.”
Due to the fence, the church was unable to hold Sunday worship services on August 18. The church was started in 1928 and has met at its present location since 1949. Al Lloyd has served as pastor since 1993.