George Bogle (Detroit Preacher) - Evangel Ministries

Evangel Ministries

In 1970 Bogle and Shirley moved from the white Detroit suburb of Mt. Clemens to the city of Detroit and opened a storefront ministry. The Bogle family entered Detroit at time when white flight was escalating and the wounds of the 12th Street Riot were still fresh. Although Caucasian, Bogle establish a racially diverse congregation called the 'House of Prayer'. It included a dormitory and halfway house for Detroiters troubled by homelessness, mental illness and drug addiction. Small businesses were established to serve the public and act as gainful employment for jobless church members.

'Evangel Ministries' was created later upon moving into a traditional church building on Detroit’s westside near Stansbury and Grand River Boulevard. Soon after, George and Shirley began 'The Evangel Prayer Time' radio ministry to serve the prayer needs of Christian and non-Christians in Detroit. Although an evangelical minister, Bogle’s unpretentious manner, accepting attitude and practical advice with believers and non-Christians attracted listeners to his show. His commitment to racial equality and support for the urban poor distinguishes him beyond the bounds of a traditional minister. Nevertheless, his show can be criticized for failing to take fully into account the serious nature of dispensing advice without professional training. Callers often present serious social, medical, family and economic problems, and Bogle's ultimate advice is always prayer. Additionally, the show is supported through donations from listeners and at times can become primarily concerned with fundraising. In 2004, George Bogle turned seventy years old and there was public birthday party for him sponsored by Detroit civic leaders.