Peacemakers International traces its roots to 1974, when Steve Upshur — a 25-year-old heroin-addicted alcoholic from Detroit's West Side — encountered Jesus Christ while in Oklahoma. He was radically and miraculously delivered from all drug addiction with no withdrawals. Returning to Detroit a changed man, he began sharing his faith and teaching Bible studies to youth on the city's east side.
In 1980, his ministry, The Breadline, merged with another group of believers to form New Life Fellowship of Believers, co-pastored by Tony Mancina, Bob Pannecouk, and Steve Upshur. The church launched Zoe Christian Academy, and Pastor Steve hosted the New Life television program for fifteen years while also ministering in prisons and jails across Southeast Michigan.
In 1994, congregation members Jim and Zilpha Fox donated an old four-story warehouse on Chene Street in Detroit's inner city. That gift marked the birth of Peacemakers International. Volunteers began hosting community outreach events — barbecues, campfires, and live music — and in 1997 Pastor Steve transitioned full-time to the work. He and his wife, Elaine, have co-labored faithfully ever since, building the ministry from the ground up with a steadfast vision for the Chene community. Peacemakers arrived in Detroit at a time when many were leaving, committed to the truth that people matter and that God loves them.
To hear the full story, watch Pastor Steve's testimony.
Over 30 Years of History on Chene
To celebrate our 30th Anniversary, we created a special film using a wealth of historical video footage showcasing Peacemakers and Chene Street during the 1990s.
It has been a wonderful journey since 1994, and so many of you have played a part in helping us fulfill our calling. We hope you'll take some time to enjoy these treasured memories of our early years — featuring many beloved names and faces, some of whom have since passed on to Glory.