How did we get here?
In June of 2020 a group of DFW pastors and church leaders came together to act on a commitment to sharing Jesus, planting neighborhood churches, and investing deeply in community development in under-resourced, Black-majority communities.
There are large geographical areas in DFW, many of which are demographically Black-majority, that are deeply underserved by the church, including the LCMS. The five areas highlighted on this map have become the focus of our mission. For reference, the darkest background colors on the map represent the most economically disadvantaged areas.
City Lights is a Spirit-led product of this vision to invest in these urban communities. We believe that God has offered hope in Jesus to all people and to all communities, no matter how advantaged they are. City Lights lives to love, learn from, and serve these under-valued people, and City Lights will keep this initial vision as its focus.
What is the specific work of City Lights?
Plant diverse churches in Black-majority communities to foster true hope that only Jesus can bring.
Start new community development initiatives from the voiced needs of the community to help improve quality of life.
Raise up local spiritual and community leaders that can carry this work forward into the future.
