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Forest Chapel UMC marks 70 years, tells Forest Park council its story of partnership
Summary
Reverend Dr. Kabamba Kibuko addressed the Forest Park City Council on July 6, 2026, to mark Forest Chapel United Methodist Church’s 70th anniversary and highlighted long-running partnerships with local schools, the library, immigrant communities and social-service programs; he invited the public to a September community celebration.
Reverend Dr. Kabamba Kibuko, pastor of Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, told the Forest Park City Council on July 6 that the church’s 70-year history has been defined by partnerships with neighbors and city institutions.
"This story does not belong to Forest Chapel alone. It belongs to all of us," Kabuka Kibuko said, recounting early gatherings before a sanctuary existed and pointing to recent programs that serve immigrant families and children.
The pastor described longstanding collaboration with Winton Woods Schools, the public library and community groups. He said Forest Chapel runs a weekly produce pop-up from March through November that serves about 100 families and noted the Learning Garden Academy inside the church welcomes more than 100 children each day. He also cited work with the Bhutanese community of Cincinnati and the Hamilton County 513 relief program.
Council members responded with praise for the church’s outreach. Councilwoman Adams said she has worked with the congregation through social services and commended its hospitality; another council member called Forest Chapel a "rock for this community for 70 years." The remarks highlighted the church’s role in food distribution during COVID-19 and mentoring programs for youth.
Kabuka Kibuko invited residents and partners to a community celebration, "Stories That Connect Us," scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, and urged continued partnership among churches, schools, first responders and city staff.
The presentation concluded with council thanks and brief comments from several members noting the church’s local impact and long relationship with the city.
