Cote Brilliante Joint Venture

Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church, led by Reverend William Gillespie, is virtually all African-American and Christian, while Central Reform Congregation, led by Rabbi Susan Talve, is overwhelmingly Caucasian and Jewish.

The Joint Venture, which ia now incorporated as a nonprofit organization, first united for the purpose of improving both interracial and inter-religious relations. They have worked together on community projects such as Habitat for Humanity, sponsored a mixed-race dialogue program and organized education programs.

The Joint Venture has recognized Dr. King's birthday in a variety of ways, including interfaith service, joint choir programs, walking behind a joint banner in the city's King Day parades. 

This past January,  the Joint Venture hosted a rousing tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., with a joint service featuring keynote speaker Reverend Billy Kyles.  Reverend Kyles was with Dr. King on the night of his death and spoke personally about his experiences in the Civil Rights Movement.  He urged those attending to continue to "poke holes in the darkness" to bring justice and equality to all  human beings.

The Joint Venture has also sponsored a political dialogue between the candidates for Mayor; attended theatrical presentations at the St. Louis Black Repertory Theater and of Klezmer music; sponsored speakers; hosted each other's members in their homes; and attended picnics and celebrations sponsored by each Congregation.

The Joint Venture has organized a nationally recognized mentoring program in 1992, and in 1999, supported the construction of a much needed school/community park and educational garden.

The Joint Venture's secret to success has been their commitment to joint action, the willingness to honestly face what they disagree on, and to not be afraid of trying new ways to achieve their original goals of improved interracial and inter-religious relations.