For over 25 years, Fortress (first the church and later the nonprofit) has proudly called Historic Southside home, and in the spirit of Jeremiah 29:7, we work hard for the welfare of our community and “pray to the Lord on its behalf.” We invite others to do so as well through neighborhood Prayer Drives that not only lift up needs in Historic Southside, but also provide a powerful learning experience.

Naturally, Prayer Drives begin at Fortress, and our campus boasts a rich history of its own! In 1929, Our Mother of Mercy Catholic School was established on this site as a school for Black students when public schools were legally segregated. Also, our big playground was the home site of the legendary Black educator, Hazel Harvey Peace.
From here, participants board Fortress buses and visit IM Terrell Academy, “Old Fortress,” Van Zandt-Guinn Elementary School, Evans Plaza, and Hillside Park before returning to campus. At each stop - and en route in between - groups explore Historic Southside’s rich Black and Hispanic culture and history, including topics like the lasting impact of slavery and reconstruction, racial segregation, notable Black and Hispanic leaders, the impact of Interstate Highway 35, opportunities for revitalization, and more.

Prayer is at the heart of these drives, and as groups learn of the unique needs and challenges facing our neighbors, they spend time in prayer at each stop along the route. Prayer topics include:

That hearts will be open to learn as we explore the history of our community.
That we will see how history affects us and the kids we serve today.
That barriers facing children in poverty and children of color will continue to fall.

That God’s church would reflect His heart for all people.
That our neighborhood would have opportunities for economic revitalization without harm to current residents through the effects of gentrification.

Perhaps a group from your church would like to join a Prayer Drive? Or maybe you could assemble a group of family members, like minded neighbors, coworkers, or an organization to which you belong? Contact Fortress Community Relations Coordinator Remy Bucknor today, and let us schedule a Prayer Drive for YOU!

Fortress Focus