Teens who attended the Presidents' Day event with their book "Raise Your GPA".

Chicago Black Methodists for Church Renewal’s (BMCR) Black Teens Matter held its 4th Annual Presidents’ Day Holiday Hook-Up on Feb. 20.  Black Teens Matter is a component of the Rev. Maceo D. Pembroke, Sr., Memorial Institute, which is now in its 50th year.  The theme was Guaranteed Scholarship > Guaranteed Success, based on the book entitled Raise Your GPA: God’s Way to Win @ School & Life, written by Jonathan Banks. 

Banks, an ordained minister, passionate educator, tutor, youth mentor, and trainer of youth leaders, led a lively discussion focusing on raising your God-Point Average in every area of life, as the key to a significant life that matters.  The youth shared some of their concerns and challenges they face that are frightening and threatening.  They seemed to be inspired and encouraged by Banks’s message and expressed interest in having these programs more often.

The attendance and presence of parents, youth leaders, and BMCR President Darryl D. Harris was a blessing, as well as the hospitality of the Phi Delta Kappa Sorority, Inc., Mu Chapter, and host Phyllis Donaldson (Hartzell Memorial UMC).

In 2021 and 2022, BMCR held a number of Retreats of Rest for youth, conducted by Julian Davis Reid, theologian & artist (former Pembroke Institute student), and will continue to sponsor programs and contribute, in every way possible, at every opportunity, partnering with the Northern Illinois Conference, to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transform the world, our number one priority.