Stepping into Concord Missionary Baptist Church in 1992 was like entering a new world, a pivotal moment that reshaped my life’s trajectory. As a white individual venturing into this African-American sanctuary in Oak Cliff, I was immediately aware of crossing cultural boundaries.
The church held familiar Baptist elements – pews, hymnals, a pulpit, and a baptismal pool – yet, the atmosphere was distinctly different. African-American culture permeated the very essence of the space. Coming from Plano, I felt acutely aware of my “outsider” status. This experience underscored the reality that despite shared faith, deep divides existed.
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The Apostle Paul speaks of unity in Ephesians 4:4-6, emphasizing “one body and one spirit … one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and father of all.” However, crossing the Trinity River into Oak Cliff revealed a chasm far deeper than geographical distance. This divide, etched over decades, was a complex interplay of cultural, racial, economic, and political factors, threatening the very unity of the Christian community. This cultural immersion became an unexpected gift, revealing the richness and depth of a world I was previously unaware of.
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Meeting Pastor E.K. Bailey for the first time was awe-inspiring. His commanding presence and visionary leadership immediately put me at ease, though building a genuine relationship took time. His gracious welcome was significant, especially considering I wasn’t the first white person to approach this community. Many before me had come with empty promises of economic prosperity, their self-serving motives eventually exposed. Their focus was not on genuine connection or brotherhood but on exploiting economic opportunities in South Dallas, viewing Pastor Bailey as a means to an end. This history underscored the importance of approaching this new cultural landscape with humility and a true desire to serve.
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Pastor Bailey became my mentor, guiding me on how to truly serve the city. He recognized the vision within his community but acknowledged the lack of resources and implementation support. He instilled in me the fundamental principle of servant leadership: to always ask, “How may I serve you?” and “How may I pray for you?” This simple yet profound shift in perspective was a transformative gift.
Over time, I earned Pastor Bailey’s trust. He recognized my sincere calling to serve the Bonton community in South Dallas and eventually welcomed me as “brother” within his circle. When Velma Mitchell and I established H.I.S. BridgeBuilders, an urban transformation ministry, Pastor Bailey joined our board. He further extended his trust by inviting me to serve on the board of E.K. Bailey Ministries. This acceptance was a powerful testament to the bridges being built.
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In 2001, Pastor Bailey received a cancer diagnosis. During that challenging period, I often visited him, listening to his reflections on faith and how God was guiding him through this battle. Unbeknownst to us then, he was preparing me for my own future health crisis. His example of faith in adversity became another invaluable gift.
Nearly four years ago, severe pain led to a doctor’s visit and a diagnosis: stage 4 nonsmoker’s lung cancer. The prognosis was grim, with a life expectancy of eight to eighteen months. In that moment, I found myself drawing upon the very lessons Pastor Bailey had taught me during our years of inner-city ministry. His guidance became a lifeline.
Pastor Bailey had emphasized that all battles, whether in urban communities or in personal life, are fought through believing prayer. This teaching ignited my own journey of faith-based prayer, trusting in God’s sovereignty and the power of the Holy Spirit. This spiritual foundation, gifted to me through Pastor Bailey’s mentorship, became my source of strength.
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The question of why Pastor Bailey succumbed to cancer while I survived remains unanswered. His faith was immense, far surpassing my own. Yet, the ministry we envisioned together continues to flourish. Bridges have been constructed between diverse entities: churches like Prestonwood Baptist, Concord, and Highland Park Presbyterian; corporations such as Omni Hotels & Resorts; business leaders like Albert Huddleston and Norm Miller; and strategic partnerships with the Dallas Housing Authority. This collaborative network is a living testament to the power of unity.
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Today, through the Economic Development Center provided by the Dallas Housing Authority, residents of South Dallas receive valuable training. When the new Omni Dallas Hotel opened, seeking to fill over 700 positions, more than 10% of their new hires were graduates of our training program. This initiative not only facilitated entry into the hospitality industry but also provided mentorship from our partner churches. This tangible impact is a direct result of the bridge-building efforts initiated years ago.
Pastor Bailey and I discovered the profound truth that we are stronger together. Extraordinary outcomes emerge when we simply build bridges founded on love and mutual respect. The journey, initiated by a “white guy” crossing cultural lines, yielded unexpected and transformative gifts of understanding and collaboration.
I found in Pastor Bailey a friend closer than a brother, a true “BridgeBuilder.” In March, at the Omni Dallas Hotel, H.I.S. BridgeBuilders honored his legacy, posthumously awarding him the Pat Summerall “Heart of a Champion” Award as the first recipient. This recognition celebrated the enduring impact of his life and work.
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With the additional time God has granted me, I am committed to honoring my brother’s legacy by continuing to answer God’s call to serve urban communities worldwide. The initial step into Concord Missionary Baptist Church, though seemingly small, unlocked a series of profound gifts – the gift of mentorship, the gift of cross-cultural understanding, and ultimately, the gift of purpose.
Mike Fechner is president and co-founder of H.I.S. BridgeBuilders
and can be contacted through
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Mike Fechner and E.K. Bailey collaborate on a community project in South Dallas, demonstrating their partnership and shared commitment to service.
