All People’s Church: Connecting With The Community
by Charlesetta Thompson
The church at 2600 N. 2nd Street used to be called
Epiphany Lutheran Church. It had a tradition of being
open to the community for meetings and youth
programs, such as 4H.
About 18 years ago, it became All People’s Church
when Gregory Van Dunk became pastor. Van Dunk
continued to be very involved in Harambee and the
larger community. He served as pastor for 15 years
before leaving to take the pulpit at Atonement
Lutheran Church in Muskego, Wisconsin. Kris Ertl was
interim pastor for one year.
According to Catherine Alexander, Administrative
Liaison, the mission of the church is to connect with
the community. “This is God’s House, everyone should
be welcome,” she said.
This is evidenced by what one will find at a Sunday
Service. The members are composed of a very diverse
ethnic mix and so is the pastoral staff. Although the
congregation is currently looking for a pastor, they
have not missed a beat. On Sundays, Venice Williams
preaches for the 9am and 11am services, while Carlos
Aranda is in charge of the 5pm traditional service
in Spanish. Jose ‘Elias’ Garcia and other Hispanic
ministers assist with the evening services. There is a
10am education hour between the morning services.
All People’s Church Programs and Ministries:
Hispanic Ministry:
Services and special programs
are under the leadership of Rev. Carlos Aranda.
Wednesday morning Community Bible Study:
Program is for adults and includes a meal. The food
pantry is also available. Wednesdays at 10:30am.
Wednesday Night Alive:
Evening includes dinner &
fellowship, homework help, and art. Wednesdays at
5:30pm.
Seedfolks and Kujichagulia:
Programs geared for
enrichment and empowerment of young people.
Youthworks Ministry:
Young people work helping
others in the neighborhood on such tasks as cleaning
yards and vacant lots.
Vacation Bible School:
Program and activities in
June, July and August are being planned for both
youth and adult participants.
Van transportation:
Please contact the church staff
at 414-264-1616 for information and availablity.
Venice Williams
, Minister
Rev. Carlos Aranda
, Pastor (Hispanic Ministry)
Rev. Jose` Elias` Garcia
, Lay Pastor (Hispanic
Ministry)
David Nunley
, Music Director
Catherine Alexander
, Grant Writer/Administrative
Liaison
Riverwest Currents online edition - March, 2007
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