Shaun Singh
Devon Avenue Ministry Hub: Church Equipping, Immigrant Welcome, and Global-to-Local Learning
2026: The Devon Avenue Ministry Hub is a project of the South Asian Friendship Center (SAFC) that will equip churches for cross-cultural ministry, build a welcoming and referral-centered pathway for immigrant neighbors through Immigrant Hope Chicago, and strengthen relationship-based Gospel engagement across Chicago’s Devon Avenue community. SAFC convenes pastors, church leaders, youth teams, and volunteers for cultural immersion, neighborhood learning, prayer walks, and practical training on hospitality and ministry among South Asian, immigrant, and multi-faith neighbors. The project will also strengthen care pathways through community listening, trusted referrals, interpretation, prayer, follow-up, and practical resources. A Global-to-Local Ministry Learning Exchange will support a locally led training for approximately 50 pastors in India. Their contextual insights and materials will be adapted into Chicago-based resources for churches serving South Asian and immigrant neighbors. Through this project, SAFC will expand leadership capacity, strengthen collaboration among congregations, and create sustainable pathways of welcome, discipleship, practical care, and Gospel witness on Devon Avenue.
Congregations and Communities grants provide support for urban pastors, churches, faith-based community organizations, and theological institutions to share resources, ideas, and practices for life-giving ministry in cities across North America. We are truly inspired by the commitment of these churches, educational institutions, and community organizations.
