Urban Ministry

Many congregations in the Saint Paul Area Synod that are located in the urban core of St. Paul face the challenge of declining membership and limited resources, even as the opportunities for ministry and mission increase because of changing neighborhoods and growing immigrant populations. The synod is committed to providing vital ministry in the city and believes the most effective strategy for urban ministry involves cooperation and joint ministry by congregations in the urban core that is supported by the synod as a whole. The Saint Paul Area Synod works in collaboration with ISAIAH—a coalition of congregation-based community organizations through which Minnesota congregations can become stronger, deal with local community issues, and address sprawl, affordable housing, and other regional issues—in carrying out its urban ministry.

Urban Youth Ministry Initiative

VIBE, a cooperative program among urban congregations, provides cooperative confirmation instruction, gives youth access to numerous large events developed especially for urban churches, and supports training for youth and leaders to strengthen their individual congregations. For a schedule of VIBE activities, visit www.vibeyouth.org.