From a humble beginning . . .

In 1902 Atlanta had no place for deaf people to worship except in hearing churches where they were not able to participate in the services.  Mr. W.F. Crusselle, an executive of the old Tri-weekly Constitution, assisted in finding a meeting space at what is now St. Mark's Methodist Church for the deaf people to use.  The Union Church of the Deaf was a result of his efforts.  As the church grew, Mr. Crusselle saw the need for a minister.  Rev. Samuel Freeman, a deaf minister, who had retired from teaching at the Georgia School for the Deaf, accepted the call to serve as the pastor.  In honor of these two men who established and led the church for so long, members voted to name the church "Crusselle-Freeman Mission of the Deaf." 

A small church building on Allene Avenue was purchased in 1962.  It was remodeled with most of the work being done by the members as a labor of love.  As the membership grew, a larger building was needed.  With a little money and a lot of faith, the present building was built.  Again the members worked tirelessly and God has faithfully honored their efforts. 

Since its beginning, Crusselle-Freeman Church of the Deaf has ministered to thousands of people, both deaf and hearing, of all ages and of every race.  God continues to use this church to minister in a special way to deaf people, their families, and the surrounding community.  Our membership remains faithful in our mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ. 


If you would like any more information on the history of CF Church or the Atlanta Deaf Community, please do not hesitate to contact us.  You are also welcome to view our history room on Sunday mornings, complete with a variety of pictures from our history.