Written by Esther Michael
October was Pastor Appreciation Month. There are various ministries in Minneapolis who are reaching the community through outreach programs and Proverbs Christian Fellowship is gaining ground in North Minneapolis and the Camden Community.
Proverbs Christian Fellowship started in a home over 20 years ago by Pastors Darrell Gillespie and Doris Allison. Six months later the clergy moved to a community center. During the next expansion, Proverbs moved to a storefront in North Minneapolis. It has grown to be the church on the hill and calls its home 3210 Oliver Ave N. The leadership is comprised of five pastors including Pastor Darrell Gillespie, Pastor Doris Allison, Pastor Nathaniel Orr, Pastor Michael Bluntson and Pastor Judy Austin. It is an expanding congregation and is in the heart of the Northside community.
Proverbs has begun an initiative by pouring into the community through engagement efforts with the residents. Proverbs is reaching the community by providing a clothing closet, a food drive twice per month and ongoing community feedings. During the months of September and October this year, Proverbs did weekly prayer walks from Lowry to Dowling with local community organizers and church members. The teams met and walked the Northside in unity four consecutive Sundays from September 15 through October 6.
This prayer walk campaign was launched by Pastor Doris Allison and Cutting Edge Ministries in collaboration with Proverbs Christian Fellowship. The prayer walk gained the support of the MPD and brought awareness to the Northside Community where the church leaders at Proverbs are making significant efforts to “meet you where you are.” Proverbs is committed to reaching the Northside community through various outreach efforts and the community is responding positively. Residents near the Penn and Lowry intersection have been participating in Sister Netta’s community feedings over the past few years. This engagement takes place right in the parking lot of Proverb’s twice a month.
The events initiated by Proverbs are all possible because of the various outreach programs and teams that are upheld by the dedicated members of Proverbs Christian Fellowship. The leadership instills the importance of community, and building up families to lead and serve. Pastor Gillespie is being noticed for his community efforts and is nominated for the Community Leader Award at the 5th annual Black Business Ball. The Northside Community recognizes Proverbs as “bringing families together and family is community.” Community volunteer and Proverbs member Evelyn Doyle says this is what Proverbs is all about when it comes to families and community. She is hopeful for this Minneapolis community of caring members and has “learned how to love” by the inclusivity and awareness of the congregation. Proverbs Christian Fellowships doors are always open and we invite you to join us in unity.