The North End

From page A-3 vate school closed in 1996. However, St. Philip’s Evangelical Lutheran Church –ready to celebrate its 89th anniversary in November – remains a fixture in the North End, but with a renewed focus.

“We are focused on a ministry of reconciliation,” said Rev. Bertram B. Lewis Sr., St. Philip’s Lutheran Church’s senior pastor. “That means we have looked outside the church’s doors and saw things in the majority of the community that have drastically changed.”

Lewis said because of the pandemic and a flood in the church, St. Philip’s only returned to in-person worship last September. Yet, through adversities, the church continued its community outreach programs, such as drive-thru food giveaways and school supply pick-

Anthony Askew

In his new role, Askew will lead the Board of Education as they work to implement the district’s strategic plan which focuses on improving student achievement, enhancing the learning environment, and fostering community engagement. He also looks forward to the district’s growth and expanding educational opportunities through adult education, GED program and new high school.

“I look forward to working with the new leadership team to achieve high-quality public education so students can reach their maximum potential through a rigorous and engaging curriculum. As always, we continue to put students first.” said Zakia Gibson, chief education officer of the Highland Park School District.” ups for kids. According to Lewis, St. Philip’s is in the process of restoring its youth mentoring program, community clothing bank and other empowering endeavors to serve the North End and beyond.

For more information, visit the district’s website at www.hipark.org or call 313-402-0266.

Lewis explained that more than a decade ago, there were approximately 40 Black Lutheran churches in Detroit, and now there are a handful, including the historic St. Philip’s.

“We want to expand to embrace anyone who wants to hear the word of God and participate in loving and helping their neighbors as they would do unto themselves,” Lewis said. “And we really want to continue to be a valuable part of this North End community, so we are going to do a blend of work that God has called us to do. However, a big thing for us, the first Black Lutheran church in Michigan, is to hold on to that and remind people that we are not going away.”