HISTORY OF THE CHRISTIAN GUILD
There were limited resources for teenagers and young adults in the 1940’s that sought Christian social activities in the Chicago Metropolitan area. A visionary group named The Young Women Christian Guild (YWCG) was formed to fill that void. This dedicated group sponsored many youth activities including drama performances at various churches in Chicago, Illinois. The most notable one was “The Challenge of the Cross.”
The organization flourished and as activities continued to be successful, the Guild made a vow that proceeds received from projects would be used for charity. “We are not seeking financial rewards, but spiritual rewards.” In light of this, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 was adopted as a spiritual guide and foundation for the Guild.
In 1945, after outgrowing the name YWCG, The Christian Guild was formulated and became a chartered organization by the State of Illinois. Moreover, in 1961 Articles of Incorporation Under The General Not For Profit Corporation Act for the state of Illinois were established.
The Christian Guild presented its First Graduate Debutante Coronation Promenade in 1964. The purpose of this event was to give both elementary and high school graduates an evening of Christian entertainment.
The Christian Guild further evolved in 1969 establishing The Constance Vann Scholarship Memorial Fund. Then in 1982, inspired from a donation from Jackson Park Hospital, the establishment of the Mozella Hudson Performing Arts Award Fund began. Participants of the annual Performing Arts Programs that demonstrated outstanding talent were recipients of these awards at the Promenade. From 1964-2015, the Christian Guild hosted its ‘annual promenade for over 3,750 graduates from kindergarten, high school, college and graduate/professional schools, awarding well over $250,000 in academic bonds, scholarships and artistic awards.
In addition to education and socialization, The Guild has presented over 7,000 bibles to incarcerated inmates of the Cook County Jail in Chicago, the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, Sunday Schools in Liberia, West Africa, and to graduates that participated in the promenade in its early formation.
In 2018, a new direction and mission transpired when the Christian Guild joined the organizational structure and governance of Demoiselle 2 Femme, NFP under the “D2F Formation.” After spending a year in the D2F Incubation House, the Christian Guild emerged with a new organizational structure, mission, vision, program model, branding, leadership, and strategic plan. The new Christian Guild will launched in 2020 as we celebrated 75 years – our diamond anniversary!
The legacy of The Christian Guild has continued in the hearts of Guild participants, members, and the leadership of our past president(s); Jeanette Hodge, Mildred Grant , Joyce Smith, Janice Lyons, Frances Morrison , Lucille Chambers, and Cathy Vaxter-Phillips.
