Two Evanston Baptist Pastors Receive Peace and Justice Award for Reparations Work (Evanston, Illinois)

The Rev. Michael Nabors, pastor of Second Baptist Church, and the Rev. Michael Woolf, pastor of Lake Street Church, have been selected to receive the Edwin T. Dahlberg Peace and Justice Award for their outstanding work in promoting peace and justice. The award, presented by the American Baptist Home Mission Societies, honors individuals and groups who demonstrate a commitment to social justice and reconciliation.

Established in 1964, the award was first given to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., a pioneering figure in the civil rights movement. The recognition highlights the ongoing efforts of these two faith leaders to address historical injustices and foster unity within their communities.

Second Baptist Church was founded in 1882 when 10 Black members of Lake Street Church (then known as First Baptist) left to establish the first Black Baptist congregation in Evanston. This historical context underscores the significance of the current partnership between the two churches.

Pastors Nabors and Woolf initiated discussions regarding the rightful ownership of Lake Street Church’s historic property. Their congregations have acknowledged that Second Baptist is a full and rightful partner in the ownership of the Lake Street property. While discernment continues about how this partnership will be realized, the work of reparation is already underway.

Jeffrey Haggray, executive director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, praised the leaders for their courage in pursuing racial justice and reconciliation. He noted that their efforts reflect the values of Edwin T. Dahlberg, a prominent figure in American Baptist history known for his dedication to social justice and peacemaking.

The Rev. Jamie Washam, president of the board of directors for American Baptist Home Mission Societies, emphasized that the award honors Dahlberg’s legacy of Christian discipleship. Dahlberg, a disciple of Walter Rauschenbusch, played a significant role in shaping the social justice movement within the American Baptist Churches USA.

The award will be presented at the 2023 Biennial Mission Summit in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in June. This recognition not only celebrates the efforts of these two pastors but also highlights the enduring impact of their work in promoting peace and justice.

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