Seventh Annual Back-to-School Community Outreach Rally and Parade

The New Progressive M.B. Church (NPMBC) held its 7th Annual Neighborhood Back-to-School Community Outreach Rally and Parade on Saturday, August 27, 2011. The popular event, which drew over 200 neighborhood children, family and friends provided school supplies, fun and games, clothing, food, health screening and a Prayer Service.

Pastor Herbert Lee, Jr. said this Community Outreach started seven years ago. And according to some local residents the outreach is very much needed. I spoke with Edward from 93rd and Lafayette who says “Every year you can bring your kids, enjoy yourself and get a nice blessing because they have a Prayer Service”. Edward went on to say “They give out food, clothes, school supplies and you can get a free check-up. It’s nice because some families can’t afford these things. That’s real good!”

Then there was Mr. Thompson, who said he lived at 91st and Perry. When asked about the Community Outreach Rally, he succinctly – and positively – replied “It’s excellent, very good for our community”. And that observation was reinforced as I walked along the Police-escorted parade route observing many children and their parents waving from their porches as candy was tossed out, and music and cheers emanated from the enthusiastic lead float spear-headed by the lively Rev. Samuels, Youth Director for the Church.

I also wanted to get feedback from some of the members of NPMBC.

Deacon Sylvester Briggs informed me that at last year’s outreach, 400 community residents registered to partake in the various activities and programs.

I spoke at length with Deacon Mitchell Samuels, and particularly liked the way he described the outreach program. He said “It is a Ministry, one that’s needed in the neighbor. It brings the community together”.

Elder McKenzie, who has been a member of NPMBC for some 42 years, said it is our opportunity to “…show up in the neighborhood and give back. And let the neighborhood know that we are here.” Mamie Tobias, a 29-year member and President of the Usher Board see the outreach as an opportunity to help meet the needs of the community while enhancing community relations. Rudolph Coe, a 15-year member, was right on point also, saying the outreach is an opportunity to “…encourage young people.”

Sister Sheila Whitelow -The AWANA Commander – and member for over 21 years said this is a way to “…outreach to our community and encourage those who know the Lord.” In conjunction with that, in January of 2011, she started NPMBC’s AWANA Youth Ministry for grades 3-7. AWANA is based on 2 Timothy 2:15 in the Bible. It stands for “Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed”. One exciting activity they are commencing is the “Pop Can Drive” fundraiser where empty pop cans are collected and recycled.

Perhaps the Seventh Annual Back-to-School Community Outreach Rally and Parade was best capsulated by Rev. Bryant Lampkin, Sr. who said “We feed them the Word of God, then we feed their bellies: Food for the Soul -Food for the Belly!”

The New Progressive M.B Church is located at:

9406 S. Perry Ave., Chicago, IL 60620

773 – 568-1091

Rev. Herbert Lee, Jr., Pastor.


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