Urban & Intercultural Ministry Awards

Each year at the EFCA Leadership Conference, ReachNational presents awards at the Urban & Intercultural Ministries luncheon to recognize urban and intercultural ministry leaders who exemplify our values of vision, courage, compassion and bridging. These are the 2008 award recipients.

Vision  

For looking into the future and seeing a situation not as it is, but as it can become. 
For inspiring all to achieve what others can only dream. 
For innovatively and boldly leading the way for greater kingdom impact.

Mrs. April Warfield
NextSteps Ministry, Inglewood, CA

For her vision to see the mission field in her own community, and her commitment to equip and empower youth in the foster care system for kingdom living.

Bridging

For understanding values, cultures, and perspectives.
For understanding barriers and working to bring all to unity.
For working with integrity to destroy walls of separation, to create a path to brotherly embrace.

Mr. Willy Bezemer
The Bridge EFC, Fresno, CA

For his work with the Bridge as a champion and advocate for Hispanic ministries, and for paving the way for El Puente, the Hispanic church at the Bridge.

Compassion

For caring deeply and expecting more than others think is possible.
For seeing potential and dignity where others can not.
For sensing pain, healing with mercy, and inspiring people.

Mrs. Elizabeth Meson
El Faro (The Lighthouse) EFC, Lebanon, PA

For her advocacy and service to the Spanish-speaking immigrant community.

Courage

For taking the path others have not, and never losing sight of the dream.
For standing together and making tough decisions, all to meet the needs of others.
For holding onto unchanging principles while pursuing an ever changing path.

Rev. Dr. Alvin Sanders
EFCA director of Reconciliation, formerly church planting pastor of River of Life Church, Cincinnati, OH

For his willingness to follow God’s call to leave River of Life Church and accept the call to lead the EFCA movement in the "Samaritan Way."