Dayton Avenue Celebrates Silver Anniversary of Pastor

Dayton Avenue Presbyterian Church, 217 Mackubin Street, announces a special Celebration in honor of the 25th Anniversary of their pastor, H. David Stewart.

Reverend Stewart came to Dayton Avenue Church in 1985 and led the church, well known for its role of ministry in the community, into new and expanded ministry.  A major capital campaign and renovation of the building was completed in 2008.  The original building is a Cass Gilbert design completed in 1886.  The award-winning renovation incorporates original historic features and makes the building totally accessible for community programs.

Dayton Avenue Church is known for its free Clothing Center that is open twice a month for community and refugee services.  It founded People Incorporated, now a $14 million mental health nonprofit based in Saint Paul.  It started Liberty Plaza, a 173-unit low income housing complex in Saint Paul.  It is the present location for Bill’s Pantry, a food program for people who are HIV/AIDS positive.  The church hosts many self-help and community support groups in evening hours.

Reverend Stewart is well known for his active role in the community.  He has been active in

Rondo Land Trust, Saint Paul Area Council of Churches, Liberty Plaza housing, Summit-U Planning Council, Saint Paul Ministerial Alliance, Workers Interfaith Network, Capitol Hill PTA and Anti-Racism study circles.  A native of California, he is a graduate of Occidental College in Los Angeles and San Francisco Theological Seminary.  He served churches in Pendleton, Oregon before moving to Saint Paul.

Reverend Chaz Ruark, Executive Presbyter of the Twin Cities Area stated, “In an age of fast turnovers and quick fixes, David Stewart’s 25-year tenure at Dayton Avenue Presbyterian Church is a tribute to pastoral ministry. David’s commitment to urban ministry has been a good fit with Dayton Avenue and together they have created a powerful witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ in their community. Dayton Avenue Presbyterian Church is a welcoming congregation that opens its doors and works for justice, two hallmarks of a vital congregation. David’s service and faithfulness is reflected in those qualities. To maintain such a high level ministry over 25 years is a strong testament to the work of the Holy Spirit in David Stewart and Dayton Avenue Church. Thank you David for your faithful ministry and thank you Dayton Avenue Presbyterian Church for your example to the church of Jesus Christ. May God continue to bless you both.”

The 25th Anniversary Celebration will be held on Sunday, September 12 with a worship service at 10:00 a.m. including a re-installation of ministry.  A lunch and program for congregants and friends will follow in the church Fellowship Hall, with a free-will contribution.  People who are interested in attending should contact Chuck Neve at 651-227-7389.

Reverend Stewart lives in Saint Paul with his wife, Elona Street-Stewart.  They are parents to Shekinah, Clinton (Autumn), Deacon and Cole and have three grandchildren.

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