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AFC Chicago is affectionately referred to as the "Mother church" because it was the first church founded In September 1982, by Apostle Joseph L. Stanford and twelve faithful members. AFC Chicago set the foundation of what would become a world wide ministry. In 1986, Apostle Stanford and the founding members purchased the first building, an old union hall on the westside of Chicago. However, in 1990, God inspired Apostle Stanford to move the church south to our present location at 7859 S. Ashland Ave. Apostle knew that God called AFC to be more than a “church”. In fact, he envisioned AFC being a beacon of light to the community and world, which is why the name chosen for the facility was and is today, AFC WORLD OUTREACH CENTER. The AFC World Outreach Center houses the AFC Ministry Headquarters: AFC Chicago and a 2000 seat fully seated theater.The AFC Church incubator provides space, supplies, equipment, and support to young ministers who are temporarily or permanently in need of these services. AFC service as many as 50 independent churches and nearly 10,000 parishioners every week. AFC Chicago is known for LOVE and expressing the love of God and gathering of the saints through Small Groups and powerful Sunday Services.