St. Matthew is a partner in the
Near North Ministry Alliance
Rev. Dr. Cecelia Swafford Harris, President
The Near North Ministry Alliance (NNMA) is an Illinois not-for-profit corporation formed in 1998.
It was born as a fellowship of pastors following increased violence in the Cabrini-Green housing complex; and out of a passion to respond faithfully to the needs of the Near North Community.
NNMA works to serve and interconnect the changing population of our neighborhood in new and beneficial ways, and to identify and advocate for the good of the community.
Annual Events Include:
A Good Friday Walk through the Near North community was held on Friday, March 21, 2008. Although the cold winds of winter and snow gusts challenged our embarking on the prayer walk this year, we met that challenge by gathering at Holy Family Lutheran Church located at 542 W. Hobbie Street. The Good Friday walk, which includes prayers and reflective messages from members of the Alliance, reminds us of the past and our steadfast commitment to work for the good of the future of the community. We concluded at Holy Family Lutheran Church for an ecumenical worship service, refreshments, and fellowship.
We are already gearing up for our 2009 walk which will be held on Friday, April 10, 2009. Please come out and join us!
The Healthy Community Fun Fair will be held on May 9, 2009 in Seward Park, located at the intersection of Division and Orleans. This event, held annually, is a great opportunity for the entire community to come out and meet one another while enjoying a day of free food and fun.
Community vendors sharing materials related to their programs and resources all come together to provide a wonderful venue for meeting neighbors and gathering information. Prizes and a few surprises make this a "not to miss" annual community event.
Thanksgiving Ecumenical Worship Service. This annual event is held the Sunday prior to Thanksgiving at St. Matthew United Methodist Church. This past Sunday, we had a wonderful time reflecting around the them, "Not Without Thanks". Following a time of beautiful music by participating church choirs, inspiring messages from member church pastors, we all gathered for a delicious Thanksgiving community meal. The Thanksgiving Ecumenical Worship Service continues to be a highlight that launches our combined community into the holiday season. Join us next year when we will gather on Sunday, November 22, 2009, at 4:00 p.m.
Along with St. Matthew United Methodist Church, other ministry partners include:
Brothers and Sisters of Love
Holy Family Lutheran Church
LaSalle Street Church
Park Community Church
St. Joseph Catholic Church
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
St. Luke Church of God in Christ
Wayman African Methodist Episcopal Church
Affiliate member:
Children's Memorial Hospital, Office of Child Advocacy