Unlikely – Kevin Palau

The inspiring story of an unlikely partnership that led to unprecedented change throughout the city and launched a nationwide movement called CityServe. In 2007, Kevin Palau and a few dozen pastors approached Portland s mayor and asked the question: How can we serve you with no strings attached? City officials identified five initial areas of need hunger, homelessness, healthcare, the environment, and public schools and so began a partnership, CityServe, between the city and a band of churches seeking to live out the gospel message. Since then, the CityServe model has spread like wildfire, inspiring communities across the country to take up the cause in their own cities. “Unlikely” not only tells the story of the inception of CityServe, but also challenges readers to evaluate their understanding of the gospel. Today s church finds itself torn between social justice and direct proclamation. “Unlikely” proposes a both/and scenario, showing how the gospel can truly penetrate a region through word “and” deed. CityServe is proof that when differences can be put aside for a worthy cause, real change can be attained, and unlikely beauty is born.”