The story of Christian Chapel started in a small apartment near 61st & Peoria in 1974. Jon & Janice Wakefield planted the new church with few resources, little support, and big dreams. They dreamed of a local church that would prioritize missions, glorify Jesus, embrace the work of the Holy Spirit, and emphasize biblical preaching, contemporary worship, and next-generation ministry. Christian Chapel grew quickly and met in rental facilities throughout south Tulsa. We met in apartments, office parks, and schools. Each move created new opportunities for the members of Christian Chapel to participate in exciting things God was doing through the body of believers.
In the 1980s, Pastor Richard Exley led Christian Chapel through the process of purchasing land on 76th St and constructing the first portion of our current facility. This $2 million undertaking was a massive step of faith for a church comprised almost entirely of young families and young adults. The building was completed in 1985 through the sacrificial giving of many of our founding members. The church took massive steps of faith to provide a permanent home that the generations after them have continued to benefit from.
In 1997 and again in 2009, Christian Chapel undertook significant building campaigns to accommodate a growing congregation, increased ministries, and prepare for the future. Once again, members of all ages prayed, gave, and sacrificed to see these projects completed. Throughout each building project and season of ministry, Christian Chapel maintained our commitment to missions, glorifying Jesus, embracing the work of the Holy Spirit, and emphasizing biblical preaching, contemporary worship, and next-generation ministry.
In 2024, we celebrated God’s faithfulness over the last 50 years. Now, we have the opportunity to Continue the Story in our generation and for those coming after us. In the pages to follow, you will learn about the upcoming building expansion and renovation plan at Christian Chapel. We will explain the need, highlight solutions, and invite you to consider how you can help Continue the Story of what God has done, and what He will continue to do at Christian Chapel.