Crossing the Dan Ryan Expressway on 79th Street, I entered a section of the south side with wide side streets, brick bungalows and two-story homes with larger-than-average front lawns.

When I arrived at my destination, two well-dressed older gentlemen were standing by the building entrance, next to another elderly man who was in a wheelchair. The front lobby is warm and inviting. I walked through the wood double doors into the auditorium, which feels like someone connected three country cabins.

About halfway to the front, in a middle of one of the rows of padded benches, a lady was standing and praying in front of a small group of people. I took a seat and looked around. Most people in the audience were older, and it was obvious that they know each other and are comfortable with each other.

I was greeted and welcomed by three people as others entered and took their seats. A bright blue neon light lit up a stained-glass cross at the top of the wall behind the front stage. Along the sides of the auditorium, brushed and frosted glass windows filtered the incoming sunlight through an array of blues, greens, and tans.

Four singers joined an eight-person band and led the audience in song as the event began. A few minutes later, in what was a first during this journey, a speaker came to the podium on the front stage and asked all the visitors to stand.

So I stood, along with a handful of people scattered throughout the auditorium. The speaker welcomed us and thanked us for coming. She even offered to pray with us afterward. It is a unique experience to be welcomed so personally.

The journey continues in the Chatham neighborhood on the south side, at the corner of 79th and Wabash.

Intro Theme Music: Victory Lap by QSTN ft. Mecca:83
Background Music: www.bensound.com/

Pick up your copy of the companion book at https://godinchicago.com/

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