How's It Going? How's It Going?

with Reverend P. Devon Brown (G-ETS 1989) & Reverend Pamela Pirtle (G-ETS 2015)

How is the launch of the CDF Freedom School® going? What are you looking forward to in 2023?

Reverend Pirtle said: "The St. Mark CDF Freedom School® afterschool program is in the first few months of its opening, and things are going very well. The relationships being forged with our local schools, administrators, teachers, parents, and students (scholars) has been nothing short of amazing. We look forward to the expansion of our program in June when we will provide full-day quality, no-cost summer curriculum and enrichment programming that will improve critical thinking, academic development, creativity, and the love of reading."

What is the significance of a church hosting a CDF Freedom School®?

Reverend Brown said: “The CDF Freedom School® teaches students the joy of reading and learning in the context of their culture and history, which will build self-esteem and help raise competent young people to grow into adults who contribute to the community. The church must be involved in the shaping of young people to be productive members of society.”

What have the children and youth taught you about theologies of well-being for young people?

Reverend Pirtle said: "Looking into the eyes of our young scholars has taught me that we as a church must live out our commitment to be the body of Christ on earth. This CDF Freedom School® meets the needs of our scholars, families, and community through the gospel of love that moves us to action. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper and are responsible for their well-being."