Welcome. We're glad you're here. 

Wheatland Salem is a church that believes in a simple path to following Jesus. By living devoted, connected, and generous lives, we can change the world.


FAQs

What should I wear when I come to your church?
Dress casual. But everyone says that. Here's what we mean: wear whatever clothes you feel comfortable in. You'll see others wearing everything from suits to shorts.

What are your worship services like?
We have both traditional and contemporary services. Our traditional service uses piano, organ, and choirs in worship. Our contemporary services are, well, contemporary. You'll hear stuff like Chris Tomlin, Hillsong, David Crowder, and Gateway worship. You'll also hear traditional hymns infused with a modern sound. You can listen to our sermons here, and get a sneak peek at next week's music here.

Are there opportunities for my kids and students?
We partner with WSC Kids to give children their own unique teaching/worship experience on Sunday mornings. The children typically follow the same teaching and themes as presented in adult worship so there's plenty to talk about on the car ride home. Nursery is also available for children 2 and under.

What does it mean that you are Methodist?
There are no exclusively United Methodist doctrines. Although we have distinctive emphasis we have no affirmations that are not also believed by other Christian groups. So it may not mean a whole lot to you, but you should check out John Wesley - he sort of founded the Methodist movement and was generally a cool guy.

Can I participate in communion?
We believe the [communion] table is open to all who are interested in opening their hearts to God and knowing his son, Jesus. We serve communion on the first Sunday of every month at all services.

Who is our pastor?
Rev. Dr. Zaki L. Zaki is the pastor for Wheatland Salem Church. Rev. Dr. Zaki Labib Zaki is the grandson of Egyptian Evangelical Missionaries who planted and served many churches in Sudan for over 50 years.

Dr. Zaki is a transformational leader with a passion for helping congratulations grow spiritually and expand their capacity to make a difference on behalf of God’s Kingdom locally and globally. In his free time, he oversees mentoring and evangelism ministries in some of the underserved communities of Chicago. He also leads mission trips to Europe and the Middle East to serve refugees and persecuted Christian minorities.

Dr. Zaki has graduate degrees in strategic planning, management, theology, and ministry. He has planted new churches, as well as, served several congregations in Illinois. Dr. Zaki had also served as District Superintendent in our Annual Conference from 2012 to 2018.

Dr. Zaki is married to Rev. Ayla who serves as the Pastor of Faith UMC in Lombard. They have five young adult children.