Uptown

This week I’m focusing on the community of Uptown.  Uptown has a cool history in Chicago as being an entertainment destination.  Early film stars like Charlie Chaplin and others produced films at the Essanay Studios in Uptown and the community itself has been used as a filming location for over 480 films. 

With theaters like the Argon Ballroom, Riviera Theater, and the Green Mill Jazz Club, the community of Uptown has played a significant role in ushering in many musical eras in history. (Wikipedia)  The area started changing around the 50’s when commuter rails were extended.

A YWAM team in Little Vietnam.

While Uptown has a history with the entertainment industry it looks very different now.  Uptown has areas that are very diverse ethnically, with people nicknaming them North Chinatown, New Saigon and Little Vietnam. There is also a cluster of nursing homes that treat mentally ill patients along with quite a few homeless shelters in the Uptown area. 

Uptown is a different community than it was in its prime back in the early 20^th century.  I feel like God has incredible hope for this area and is attuned to the needs of the people there.  As we look to pray for Uptown this week, pray for opportunities to see change happen in the lives of the outcast in this area.  Pray Luke 6:20 over this area, “blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” Pray also for God to encourage those that minister to the people there and to send more workers. 

Thanks once again for joining me in praying for Chicago.  Please leave a comment if you have a story about Uptown or an area of prayer you think God might be wanting us to focus on! 

Next Week: West Town