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The Presbytery of Detroit
Michigan
Elder Ruth Azar is pictured with volunteers Raphael, Sandra, and Lawrence and some of the children preparing to share dinner. Photo by Ashley Elliott.
The Presbyterian Women in the Presbytery of Detroit (PWPD) have brought hope to a neighborhood in Detroit. Elder Ruth Azar, an accountant, said that God spoke to her early in 2007 and told her she was to go into what was probably the most dangerous section of Detroit. She was to use a small, empty church owned by the presbytery, start a mission to take back the streets, and be a beacon for the church of Jesus Christ. Ruth closed her business and with support from PWPD started the Second Mile Center Mission, a safe haven for everyone who enters. When school was out for the summer, the mission began serving breakfast and lunch to sixty children who then participated in activities in the afternoon. When school began, the Second Mile Center Mission opened after school for snacks, help with homework or tutoring, access to the library in the building, dinner before playtime, and a worship service.
The Second Mile Center listens to the folks in the community about their wants and needs and has organized a dance group, a baby pantry, and sign language classes. A clothes closet has recently opened. With the help of sister churches, the volunteers are working on a computer lab and a sewing room. They also direct individuals to other helping organizations as needed. Ruth Azar and the volunteers take time to walk around the community, sharing the Salvation Prayer. Sandra, one of the volunteers, tells everyone that Elder Ruth is a blessing sent by God.
The Presbytery of Detroit has 86 churches with 32,991 members. It is home to Presbyterian-related Alma College and Howell Conference & Nature Center.
Presbytery Staff
Rev. Dr. Allen D. Timm, executive presbyter
Rev. Brenda Jarvis, associate executive presbyter
Rev. Edward H. Koster, stated clerk
Elder Richard Grant, director of outdoor ministries
Elder Arthellia Thompson, hunger action coordinator
Elder Joanne Higgins, resource center director
Elder Beverly Knox, executive assistant
Sandy Jensen, office manager
Rhonda Barley, clerical assistant/bookkeeper
Sharon Pacioni, office assistant
Beverly Auger, accounting manager
Rev. William G. Gepford, consultant for interfaith ministries
Rev. Karen Ferguson Carl, mission and transformation consultant
Elder Mary Lloyd, Hands on
Mission consultant
Elder Ruth Azar, director, Second Mile Center Mission
PC(USA) General Assembly Staff
Kathleen Davenport, BOP
Deborah Davies, OGA
Rev. Lesley Davies, OGA
Father, we are sorry for the times when we have done things that have caused hurt or left undone things that would have brought healing. We especially pray for our troubled cities. Please send your Holy Spirit to remind us of what is important and of your forgiveness when we forget you. Amen.
Ps. 27, 147:12–20 Ps. 126, 102
Deut. 9:23–10:5
Heb. 4:1–10; John 3:16–21
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