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Who We Are

We are an ever expanding group of people trying to reflect on how a vibrant relationship with Jesus entails a vibrant commitment to the world's poor. In particular, we hope to help Christians simplify their lives and mobilize money to the global poor. We are interdenominational and also eager to dialogue with those who do not profess Christian faith.

The Lazarus at the Gate curriculum is based on research conducted by Gary VanderPol, a pastor and ThD candidate studying poverty and Christian missions. Gary and Mako Nagasawa, an InterVarsity Director, led the first Lazarus group with 12 friends in 2006. After discussing budgets, simplicity commitments, and prior experiences of giving, the group collectively gave $40,000 to poverty-focused programs and ministries in Haiti, Thailand, India, Boston, and Bolivia.

In 2007, Gary and Mako partnered with Rachel Anderson, Director of the Boston Faith & Justice Network, to promote and train leaders of Lazarus groups throughout Greater Boston.

So far, those who have experienced Lazarus at the Gate have represented the following churches and organizations:

  • The Gathering Christian Fellowship (Dorchester, MA)
  • Cambridge Community Fellowship Church (Cambridge, MA)
  • Highrock Church (Arlington, MA)
  • Park Street Church (Boston, MA)
  • Hope Church (Roslindale, MA)
  • Hope Fellowship (Cambridge, MA)
  • International Community Church (Allston, MA)
  • University Lutheran (Cambridge, MA)
  • Chinese Bible Church of Greater Boston (Lexington, MA)
  • Harvard Divinity School (Cambridge, MA)
  • Boston Vineyard (Cambridge & Boston, MA)
  • Boston University (Boston, MA)

    Word continues to spread about the Lazarus experience, mostly through word of mouth. We invite you to contact us and participate in or even lead a group!