Celebrating Diversity at North Way East End

Churches in America tend to not be very diverse. That happens for a wide variety of reasons, but as I've written about many times before, I'm following the leading of the Holy Spirit to lead a diverse church in the midst of an urban environment. We've had our fair share of ups and downs as a church at North Way East End in terms of reflecting the diversity in our community. I believe that these types of things take time and intentionality through following God's lead.

While I have been open about the struggles of reconciliation and cross-cultural ministry, I need to be sure to celebrate when I see signs of hope in our church community. Over thirty years ago, North Way Christian Community was founded in an upper middle class, mostly white suburban neighborhood north of Pittsburgh. Today, there are four North Way locations including two in the city and two in the suburbs. This past Sunday morning, I had to pause and thank God for what I was experiencing. An African-American pastor from Homewood preached a message that was heard by thousands of people across our region, both live and at our video venues. Our worship at North Way East End was led by a worship team that consisted of white, black, and Asian-American members. The highlight of the worship time together occurred when Lisa, an African-American worship intern, led the congregation in a Spanish language version of the song With Everything called Con Todo. We had our global mission partners from twelve different countries throughout Latin America in attendance at the service, and we had the chance to pray for them and learn more about their ministries. And, of course, we shared in a huge fiesta/block party after church. All in all, it was an incredible day.

I caught a glimpse of the kingdom of God this past Sunday at North Way East End. People from different ethnic backgrounds, languages, and countries gathered together in Christian community to worship the Lord together. Urban and suburban people came together to honor God. Rich and poor people continued to get to know one another through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We know that Jesus Christ died for us all, not just for people that look like one another. I honestly cannot wait to see what God continues to do through North Way East End in the future, but for now I'll take this moment to celebrate. God is reconciling people to himself and to one another at our church. It's a beautiful thing to be a part of.