Horizons magazine is published by Presbyterian Women (PW) the national women’s organization of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
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"You are the light of the world. . . . let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." —Matthew 5:14 –16 M atthew 5:14–16 inspired the name CityLights for the outreach of Wayne Presbyterian Church that began in Wayne, Pennsylvania, in 1995. This 2,000-member suburban church recognized vast economic and social inequities between some of Philadel- phia's suburban and urban communi- ties. They felt God calling them to look for ways they could be of assistance in the Southwest neighborhood, which had a number of Presbyterian churches and services. Carey Davis, CityLights' energetic and dedicated director, has been an integral part of CityLights since its inception. "When the church got involved initially," explains Carey, "we started by meeting people in the Southwest community. We began a conversation with church groups, recreation centers, daycares, schools and others, asking if there was anything we could do to be helpful. Our effort was to support what was already being done." There are approximately 70,000 people in the Southwest area, which is a 40-minute drive from Wayne. Sharing is at the heart of the City- Lights network. Resource information is shared, along with information about special events and joint projects. Fund- ing sources, requests and offers of in- kind donations are shared, along with job opportunities and parenting work- shops. Much of this sharing occurs at the two-hour monthly meetings of the 40–plus community partners. "There is always something new," says Carey. "We send out 10 to 15 emails a week. We connect volunteers who wish to serve within the community, and also identify resources outside the commu- nity that might benefit our partners." CityLights also connects with regional partners, such as local universities, area congregations and service organizations. In 2013, after many prayers and gen- erous contributions, Wayne Presbyte- rian purchased a church building in Southwest that was badly in need of repair. The building was being used by New Spirit Church, which has historic Presbyterian roots. New Spirit contin- ues to worship there, but a larger mis- sion sprang forth. "We call this new thing The Common Place—a sacred space to do life together that serves the children and families of Southwest Philadelphia through faith, education and support," says Aisha Brooks-Lytle, associate pastor for mission at Wayne Presbyterian. The Common Place pro- vides annex space to Cornerstone Chris- tian Academy; it offers an after-school arts and enrichment program and room for organizations offering various sup- port services. Jane Beatty, a member of Wayne Presbyterian, is the liaison between CityLights and Mitchell K–8 School in Southwest. "Over the years we have done many things, but the most consistent is tutor- ing," says Jane. "Between 8 and 14 volun- teers go once a week to Mitchell." Several years ago, Wayne volunteers purchased and installed playground equipment. Restoring and restocking the school library, which had been closed for 15 years, was another major project. "CityLights is based on our Christian faith, but we welcome anyone who seeks to bring positive change to our neigh- bors," says Carey. "Our prayer is that in all we do, the community will be strengthened and God will be glorified." Carol Gruber is a freelance writer, clerk of session at First Presbyterian Church, Union, Missouri, and co-president of Church Women United of Franklin County, Missouri. Carey Davis (far right, middle row) meets regularly with CityLights' partners to connect resources with needs. b u i l d i n g c o m m u n i t y A Network Across Communities t t t B Y CAROL GRUBER May/June 2015 41