New Life Community Church

While I have never rated a «church» I have to say that this particular location is different from most places that i have visited in my life. The bible is preached and taught there, the pastor is a spirit filled man who loves people and seeks to build GOD’S kingdom, desires to see other’s grow, encourages deeper walk with the LORD, and is NOT at ALL concerned with getting other’s money. The people there are like any other place of true worship it has broken people who need to grow and be delivered from various sins but there are relationships sought from sincere hearts.

While I am a practicing Catholic and a member of another parish, I was invited to attend a wedding here. New Life is located on a side street, right next to Luther North High School, with services taking place in an auditorium of what is part of an old school building.
Not sure of what to expect when I got there, I was pleasantly surprised by the friendly, casual, and inclusive environment of the church. While I’ve always thought my church was pretty friendly, I have to say that I wish my parish had some of that same spirit as New Life.
The service began promptly at noon, as scheduled. On stage, a 9-​piece ensemble with guitar, bass, drum, keyboards and percussion played a series of Christian rock songs, with the words displayed on video screens to either side of the stage. The songs were simple, yet catchy and got everyone on their feet. This isn’t your grandma’s church in other words — nor is it a bad thing either. After the musical portion was over, there was a Communion of bite-​size pieces of matzo and what I think is kosher grape juice (not wine). Then the pastor came out for his sermon. He too was very personable, down to earth and his message centered on relevant biblical passages pertaining to starting the New Year off right. He spoke in a good way, not at all condemning or condescending to the people. Though it was a regular Sunday service, the wedding took place at the end of it.
As a first-​timer, I was impressed with the sense of community that I saw. For people who have drifted from their original place of worship, disillusioned with large, institutional churches centered on Sunday $ collections, stiff, uppity personalities and weeknight bingo, I think this is a welcome change. I’ve known «seekers» of faith and those looking for a welcoming religious atmosphere of inclusion, and I think this place embodies those values.
Jesus said that when two or more gather in his name, he will be among them. I thought of that as I was in New Life and I believe Jesus was present and rockin’ with the rest of us.

It is tough to review a church, but here is my attempt never the less. Always keep in mind, a church and its community is what you make of it. I have been to a lot of churches in my life and this is by far my favorite. Everyone is very warm and welcoming and laid-​back.
New Life is a non-​denominational Christian church. We currently meet at 15 campuses in and around the city of Chicago. It is a multi-​generational and multi-​ethnic congregation. The people I’ve met here are really friendly and passionate for God. People are not as dressy as they are at a lot of churches which I like. Jeans/​t-​shirt are fairly common.
This location’s senior pastor, Asa App, is solid and has a deep love for the Lord and passion for people. He’s very real and dynamic in his talks and speaks Scripture. Pastor Asa is truly a man of God with passion, energy and love that can only be from living and loving the Lord. I thoroughly enjoy his messages and he definitely brings it down to earth many of the concepts that are difficult to understand biblically.
The worship contemporary and is a good mixture of heartfelt praise and joyous worship and is spirit led.
They have many small groups that meet in the church buildings or at people’s homes through out the week. They are a great way to meet people and make friends.
New Life, like any church, isn’t perfect and isn’t for everyone, but for me, it has been a blessing. I have a family there and feel deeply loved and moved by God each time I go to church. For the first time in a long while, I’ve felt compelled to give to a church, because of the heart I see for Jesus at its root.
* plenty of free parking too

A sister church of New Life Community Church-​Jefferson Park, it just got started and this is ONLY the beginning! People of all ages, myriad cultures/​religious backgrounds seeking after God with their whole heart. It doesn’t get any better– you’ll be warmly welcomed and it won’t take long for the place to feel like home. Go there to experience true worship, sound teaching, and good fellowship! I love my church!