God In Chicago

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, bru