Freedom Rising Initiative Progress Report

In response to a request from Pittsburgh Presbytery, the 222nd General Assembly (2016) voted to “take specific action, not just in word, but also in deed, to address and improve the worsening plight of the African American male”

Since 2016, The Freedom Rising Steering Team of Pittsburgh Presbytery has been discerning what the ministry of Freedom Rising would be in Allegheny Country. In December of 2017 the team adopted the following statement: The Freedom Rising Initiative in Pittsburgh Presbytery is unapologetically Jesus focused in its mission and ministry to uplift African American Males, focusing on the areas of evangelism & discipleship, justice & reconciliation, and servant leader formation.

This fall, the Steering Team awarded three Freedom Rising Grants to partner agencies whose program objectives aligned with the mission and values of Freedom Rising.

  • Foundation of Hope – Pilot Diversion Program
  • Schenley Heights Development Corporation of Grace Memorial Presbyterian Church – Saving and Raising Our African American Boys
  • Infinite Lifestyle Solutions – Saving our Sons & Daughters Drop In CenterOn our website, www.freedomrisingpittsburgh.org, you can find the following:
  • Further information about the Freedom Rising Ministries, including video interviews.
  • Worship Resources, including suggested hymns and liturgy, to celebrate the ministry of Freedom Rising in your congregation.
  • Prayer requests from the Freedom Rising ministries.
  • Giving information regarding the different ways you can financially support the ministry of Freedom Rising.