In the heart of Wilkinsburg stands Ethnan Temple, a vital hub for community engagement and youth empowerment in the neighborhood. Under the leadership of Pastor Jerome Hurst, Ethnan Temple has become more than just a place of worship, sparking widespread positive change through its dynamic outreach efforts and programs.
Pastor Jerome’s vision for Ethnan Temple extends far beyond the confines of traditional religious activities. He envisions a community where every young person has access to resources and opportunities that empower them to thrive. “Our goal is to create a supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and realize their full potential,” says Pastor Jerome.
One of the highlights of Ethnan Temple’s new summer programs was the collaboration with local organizations like the Carnegie Science Center and Squonk, a local arts group. Together, they offered a diverse range of activities tailored to children aged 5-12. The program, which was made possible thanks to the Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation’s (WCDC) Youth Mini-Grant program, included engaging STEM activities and interactive puppet ministry sessions, providing a unique blend of education and creativity.
Ethnan Temple also initiated other impactful initiatives aimed at empowering teenagers in the community. One such program was a media camp where teenagers learned valuable skills like video production, photography, and graphic design. Participants received a stipend for their attendance and were encouraged to become part of the media team at the church, providing them with hands-on experience and economic opportunities.
Another essential aspect of Ethnan Temple’s youth empowerment efforts was the Service Camp, a collaborative project with other churches in the Wilkinsburg area. Led by Pastor Janet, the Service Camp focused on community service activities like mural painting, gardening, and neighborhood clean-ups. The Temple’s summer program integrated elements of the Service Camp, giving young participants the opportunity to make a tangible difference in their community while earning a stipend for their efforts.
Looking ahead, Pastor Jerome envisions expanding the summer programs to include additional skills training opportunities, such as nail technician or hairstyling courses. He emphasizes the importance of teaching young people to become entrepreneurs and fostering a business mindset, equipping them with the tools they need to create their own opportunities.
However, Pastor Jerome acknowledges the challenges inherent in working with vulnerable young people, many of whom have faced disappointment and mistrust in the past. Building trust and sustaining long-term engagement are critical aspects of Ethnan Temple’s approach to youth empowerment. “We understand that trust is earned, not given,” says Pastor Jerome. “That’s why we’re committed to being consistent and reliable in our support for these young people.”
Despite the challenges, Ethnan Temple remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Wilkinsburg youth. Through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships, Ethnan Temple is paving the way for a brighter future, one young person at a time.
As Pastor Jerome reflects on the impact of Ethnan Temple’s youth initiatives, he is filled with hope and optimism for the future. “Our goal is to nurture a sense of empowerment and watch them grow into flourishing young leaders,” he says. “Together, we can create a community where every young person feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
To learn more information about the Ethnan Temple, visit etemple7day.org
To apply for a 2024 WCDC Youth Mini-Grant, visit wilkinsburgcdc.org or contact the WCDC directly at 412-727-7855, or info@wilkinsburgcdc.org. All submissions must be received by Friday, May 4, 2024.
This article was first published in Soul Pitt Quarterly Print Magazine (Spring 2024). Copyright Soul Pitt Media. All Rights Reserved.
