The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and The Regional Business Council (RBC) recently hosted the annual Faith Leaders’ Luncheon at the Missouri Athletic Club.
The event is dedicated to honoring contributions of faith leaders throughout the Greater St. Louis region and underscores the important role they play in shaping stronger and safer communities.
“It is an opportunity to recognize their service and thank them for sharing their insights, strengthening alliances, and collaborating on solutions to critical challenges. By working together, we can create a safer, stronger, and more equitable St. Louis for all.”
Urban League President and CEO Michael P. McMillan
Since many churches are in underserved communities, their pastors and congregations also address pressing public safety challenges.
“Faith leaders are the heartbeat of our communities, providing guidance, comfort, and unwavering commitment in times of need. This luncheon is a testament to their vital role in advancing public safety and fostering a sense of unity across St. Louis,” said Michael P. McMillan, Urban League president and CEO.
The 2024 Faith Leaders Luncheon theme was “Our Service Delivery Lens: Neighborhood, Front Porch, Living Room,” and the luncheon highlighted a community-focused approach to delivering impactful services and fostering meaningful connections.
“This theme reflects our commitment to meeting people where they are—whether it’s in their neighborhoods, on their front porches, or in their living rooms—to create lasting change and promote safety and stability,” said James Clark, Urban League vice president of public safety.
St. Louis clergy and congregations collaborate with community stakeholders, like the Urban League and others, and faith-based organizations in addressing public safety priorities which include:
Gun Violence: Developing community-led strategies to reduce violence and provide resources for at-risk individuals.
Opioid Crisis: Strengthening partnerships to combat addiction through awareness campaigns, treatment programs, and support systems.
Resource Deserts: Advocating for equitable access to essential services and infrastructure in underserved neighborhoods.
Vehicular Violence: Promoting safety initiatives to reduce reckless driving and enhance road safety for all.
Urban League programs that put action with words to meet community needs include:
Grill to Glory: Transforming ordinary spaces into hubs for community-building and connection.
Re-Route Program: Guiding individuals to healthier, more constructive pathways in life.
Juvenile Enrichment Program: Empowering youth with tools and resources to succeed while keeping them engaged in positive activities.
Slow Down St. Louis Program: Encouraging safe driving practices to reduce traffic accidents and fatalities.
Be Men Monday at St. Peter AME Church: Assisting men in achieving realistic milestones leading to self-empowerment and personal growth.
“This luncheon is a sincere expression of gratitude for the faith leaders who have long served as pillars of strength and resilience in our community,” said McMillan.
“It is an opportunity to recognize their service and thank them for sharing their insights, strengthening alliances, and collaborating on solutions to critical challenges. By working together, we can create a safer, stronger, and more equitable St. Louis for all.”
Gospel Hall of Fame good news
Nathan Vickers of KMOV-TV reported last week that PGAV Destinations, a St. Louis-based architecture and design company, will assist Monica Butler in creating a master plan for a Gospel Music Hall of Fame at the former Second Baptist Church building on North Kingshighway.
Butler announced she wanted to transform the former church into the Hall of Fame three years ago and has continued working on the project.
She grew up near the church and remembers “hearing the bells ringing on Sunday mornings.”
“I want the bells to ring again and bring the hope back to the city and our community.”
Butler’s ties to gospel music include her mother, who performed with the O’Neal Twins and the Interfaith Choir, and as a child, appeared in the documentary film, “Say Amen, Somebody.”
Diane Lochner, a PGAV vice president, said the firm would be working with Butler on a master plan for the museum over the next six months.
“We’re really trying to develop the road map for her to inspire stakeholders and funders to join in the vision,” Lochner told KMOV.
“St. Louis is the ‘Bible Belt of Gospel,’” said Butler, who wants the Hall of Fame to include a museum, recording studio and training center.