It started with a dream.
During his childhood, Bridge of Grace’s founder, Javier Mondragon, felt
that church doors were closed to him. This message was conveyed not only
by the physical position of front doors and gates of church buildings,
but also by the disposition of worshippers who would stroll silently
past him and his friends to and from worship services. These silent
congregants are the reason why, years later, Mondragon aspired to create
a ministry whose participants would “open their doors” to community
members and actively pursue opportunities to build up their neighbors
with the gospel.
Pastor Javier holds a master of ministry degree from Olivet Nazarene University, is a professor of Community Development and Urban Ministries at Indiana Wesleyan University, and serves on various local and regional boards.
“As a designer and community activist, I am excited to use design as a tool to share the love of Christ as well as mobilize youth, residents, and volunteers who want to make a difference in our neighborhood.”
As a graduate of Howard University and a former Detroit Revitalization Fellow, Réna’s experience in private, nonprofit, and public sectors has taught her that design is a tool to develop not only places but also a sense of well-being, unity, and joy in individuals and communities.
“I taught across the street from Bridge of Grace at Levan Scott Academy for five years and I love the people of this community. I am excited to be a part of the Bridge of Grace team and bring research-based early learning programs to the community.”
Kelli has over 15 years of experience in education as a teacher and instructional coach in Title I schools. She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Central Oklahoma and a M.A. in Elementary Education from Ball State University.
