Growing Pains
In a matter of a few years the church was in need of a larger place, therefore it was recommended by Pastor Brady to either expand the present location or build a new one. It was decided to build a new facility. The site was 4338 South Prairie Avenue. Work began in July and within five months the new structure was made possible for worship. November 22, 1942 membership moved into the new church home.
The Lord was continuously blessing Christian Hope. In 24 months and two days, the financial obligation of $47,116.72 was completely liquidated. The late Rev. D. V. Jemison, President of the National Baptist Convention U.S. A., Inc., conducted this mortgage burning.
“They continued steadfast in the apostles doctrine and in fellowship and on one accord. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Act 2:42, 47.
With a vision of the promised land, the church under the leadership of Rev. Brady continued to move by faith toward a larger church home whose builder and maker was their God. But between the wilderness and the promise land a sea of doubt arose and some were unable to cross it. Yet a faithful few followers were willing to sacrifice and follow their leader. Because Pastor Brady believed that there was not anything too hard for God (Genesis 18:14). So with his rod of faith lifted over the obstacle of doubt, Rev. Brady led God’s people across the Red Sea of economic insecurity which seemed impossible to cross. The membership was asked to shoulder a financial load of
$175,000.00 which was a mortgage note of approximately $2000 monthly. This was ten times the amount of their present mortgage.
Pastor Brady said “we are going if we only stay 1 night” that was 58 years ago.