"I can’t imagine doing ministry over the long haul without partners.” says Pastor Pat Kahnke of St. Paul Fellowship Church in the frogtown neighborhood of Saint Paul. Frogtown is a community of great diversity, composed of African Americans, Asians, Hispanics, East Africans, American Indians, and Caucasians. This working class community blends residential, rental, and business properties in an eclectic mix. Over half are non-English speakers with Hmong and Spanish as their primary language. St. Paul Fellowship Church is place for people from all walks of life in the neighborhood to be welcomed with Christ’s love. Resources like Boxes of Love and PowerPacks, provided by Here’s Life, have played a huge part in the church’s outreach and ongoing connection with the community. HLIC is privileged to share partnerships with churches, like St. Paul Fellowship, that are having an impact for Christ in every corner of the Twin Cities.
Actually, St. Paul Fellowship’s partnership with Here’s Life Inner City began before the church existed. When Pastor Pat planted the church nine years ago, several founding members had previously been on summer projects with HLIC in New York City. These former students had developed a heart for inner city ministry, and had chosen to move into the frogtown neighborhood as a result! They became enthusiastic, vital participants in the church plant.
As we look forward to leading a summer project for college students this June/July in New York City, we can’t help but wonder the long term ripple effect, not only in New York, but in the hometowns of those who will be serving with us.
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