U N I T E D S TAT E S 1
REACH PHILADELPHIA R
emonde was searching for God. Her experience with church was not very positive, yet she felt she needed something more in her life. She shared her search with her friend Judy, whom she had known since high school. Finally, she asked, “Judy, can I go to church with you?” Judy joined the REACH Philadelphia Seventh-day Adventist church plant in 2011 after taking Bible studies from a classmate. At first, she was resistant to anything having to do with church, but over time, the Holy Spirit won her heart, and she became a committed member. When Remonde asked if she could come to church with Judy, she readily welcomed her
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and introduced her to new friends. Remonde began Bible studies a couple weeks later. Recently, Judy stood beside her friend in the water as Remonde dedicated her life to Jesus completely in baptism. Remonde’s experience illustrates the importance of building relationships with people, attending to their needs, and practically demonstrating the love of Jesus.
The birth of a mission
In September 2011, the mission-oriented church REACH Philadelphia was born in response to the Holy Spirit’s leading to further share God’s love in the city of Philadelphia. After much prayer, the REACH members committed themselves to creating a center of influence in West Oak Lane, a neighborhood in Philadelphia with no Adventist
Church presence. An internship program was created for young adults to live in the community and employ their God-given talents to make a positive impact. REACH members aim to share Jesus’ love by providing helpful services that connect people in relationships. In 2011, REACH began assessing community needs by visiting neighbors door-to-door. As a result, REACH was clear that they must help West Oak Lane to empower young people in greater academic achievement and provide them with access to healthy, fun activities.
From F to B
REACH opened a tutoring center for students from pre-K through 8th grade, under the leadership of intern Pastor Tiffany Brown. At the conclusion of the school year, REACH
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