Over 100 Years of Service
We are the largest African-American congregation in the Evangelical Covenant Churches of America. Although Oakdale is primarily an African-American congregation, it was founded in 1902 as a Swedish immigrant congregation at 8801 South Normal on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois. During the late 1960s the surrounding community experienced a cultural and ethnic transition dramatically altering the congregation’s ethnic make-up. This transition spilled over into the Oakdale congregation. In 1970, Oakdale called its first African-American pastor, Reverend Dr. Willie B. Jemison, who served until his retirement in January 2000. Under Pastor Jemison’s leadership, Oakdale grew from a small congregation of less than one hundred to over twelve hundred. The growth was so strong that our current worship center, 9440 S. Vincennes, was erected to accommodate the growth in disciples and ministries. In 1992, Oakdale Christian Academy and Childcare center was established to respond to the educational needs of the community.
Meet pastor Griffin &our leadership
Baccalaureate Sunday, June 28, 2026
Wear your College, High School, or Greek paraphernalia as we celebrate all of our 2026 graduates, honor roll, and Dean's list students during the 10:30 Sunday Morning Worship
hope community fest
Oakdale's annual HopeFest will be on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Come out and join the fun with food, music, games and more!
Marriage ministry prayer walk
Calling all married couples. Join us every 3rd Saturday through September as we walk and pray in Oakdale Park, 965 W 95th St. See Kimberly Taylor for more details.
2026 Gospel Run
Join Team Oakdale as we participate in the 2026 Gospel Run September 12. Register by scanning the code or clicking the register button
early morning prayer line
The prayer line is open! Join us Monday through Saturday, 6 am to 6:40 am on the prayer line. The dial in number 562-766-7462 or do 518-906-1755 code 562-766-7462. Start your day with prayer.
building lives around scriptural truth
BLAST happens each Wednesday night at 7pm. Come out for your midweek pick me up .
AV Team
Are you a techie or a techie wanna be? Well the audio visual team is looking for volunteers to be camera operators, audio engineers, screen operators, and more. No experience necessary we will train you. See anyone on the AV team for more details
