History

A group of ministers from area churches begins talking about the need for a mission to serve the homeless and hungry in York. “From the beginning, the importance of a mission for York was on the hearts of all of us.” – Stuart Shelley, a member of York Gospel Center and a York Rescue Mission founder

York Rescue Mission opens with two buildings: one as sleeping quarters for homeless men, a small restaurant to serve meals and a chapel; the other as a residence for the Mission’s superintendent and family. Carl Black, a former inmate who experienced a life-changing transformation, becomes the first superintendent of York Rescue Mission. “Our first priority has always been the salvation of men’s souls. Their spiritual needs come first, then their physical needs. We help them, house them and feed them. We help them find God and get over the problems they may have so they can re-enter the mainstream of life.” – Herman R. Smith, first board president, member of Fourth United Methodist Church, and radio minister.

Within two years, the Mission becomes overcrowded and must expand. The Mission purchases LifePath’s present site at 367 W. Market St.

Under the leadership of Superintendent Rev. Stephen Berger, York Rescue Mission opens the Lighthouse Youth Center at 55 W. Philadelphia St. When Tropical Storm Agnes brings devastation to York, the Mission joins forces with the York YMCA to provide relief to residents. That same year, the Women and Children’s Shelter ministry began on the second floor of 400 W. Market St.

The Rev. Paul Gorog becomes executive director of York Rescue Mission. During his 42-year tenure, he oversees the expansion of LifePath’s Thrift Stores and the expansion of rehabilitation services to better meet the needs of those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.

17 Jefferson Ave. as purchased and opened the following year as the new location of the Women and Children’s Shelter, where it remains today. “The Bible is very clear that when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal savior, the light of Jesus begins to shine. And this light is always shining.” – the Rev. Paul Gorog, executive director 1974-2016

York Rescue Mission rebrands as LifePath Christian Ministries and the Lighthouse Youth Center closes as the organization expands its outreach to the York community in new ways. The Rescue Mission’s new name resulted from a vision of the organization’s leadership and board of directors to embrace the spirit of empowerment as LifePath guided its guests on their journey of hope. The name highlighted the transformation of broken individuals who are served through guidance back to the path that God intended for their lives. While many of the core services such as feeding and sheltering people remained the same, LifePath wanted to offer an expanded slate of services and partnerships that would aid in the transformation of those who walk through its doors.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, like other shelters and health and human service organizations, LifePath faced numerous challenges in responding effectively to the crisis. Norman Humber joined as the Executive Director in 2021. Under his leadership, the LifePath team of skillful and compassionate professionals adapted services and responded to the needs of its guests, while keeping the health of guests, staff, volunteers and the community as a whole as an utmost priority. LifePath demonstrated extravagant faith while operating with agility and excellence.

By offering services and resources in these seven areas, LifePath Christian Ministries creates a holistic approach to each individual’s life transformation journey. Guided by case management, this comprehensive method recognizes that one’s well-being is interconnected across various areas of life, and improving one aspect can positively impact other areas. Moreover, LifePath’s emphasis on partnerships demonstrates a collaborative approach, leveraging the expertise and resources of other community partners and organizations to create a more robust support network.