Submitted Photo Rev. Robert Polk speaks at a past event. His influential career, which began in North Dakota in the 1950s, will be feted at local celebrations this month.

From the plains of North Dakota to pioneer leadership in urban ministry, Rev. Robert Polk’s journey is one of faith, resilience and transformative leadership.

Polk, 97, a former Minot YMCA youth director in the 1950s, will be returning this month to revist former congregations and take part in a local celebration of his legacy.

The public is invited to a special event on Saturday, June 21, at 5:30 p.m. in Minot’s First Congregational Church to celebrate the life of Polk, whose journey of faith, advocacy, and service touched the lives of countless people. This gathering will honor his impact, including his early work in North Dakota and his influential career beyond the state, according to the local committee planning the event.

The celebration will feature a dinner, storytelling, music and shared memories, honoring Polk’s ability to foster unity in places where it was least expected, the committee stated. It will be preceded by a presentation of the Trailblazer Award at 3 p.m. in Minot First Congregational Church.

The committee stated Polk’s service to churches in Garrison, Berthold and Minot was an act of personal courage and a testament to the bravery and openness of the communities that welcomed him. At a time when diversity in the region was rare, he stepped into unfamiliar territory with grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service. In return, congregations and local leaders, many unaccustomed to Black leadership, chose to embrace and support him, forging bonds that transcended racial and cultural barriers.

Following his five-year tenure in North Dakota, Polk continued his groundbreaking work in ministry and social justice. He served in Chicago, New York and beyond. His leadership extended to broader social and interfaith initiatives, advocating for racial equality, civil rights and intercommunity dialogue.

“A Fly in the Buttermilk” is the most recent of the three books written by Polk, who now is retired and living in Philadelphia. A meet and greet and book signing will be held Friday, June 20, at 7 p.m. in the atrium of the Staybridge Hotel in Minot.

Polk will be at First Congregational Church UCC in Garrison Sunday, June 22, at 10 a.m. for a worship and celebration. On Monday, June 23, he will be speaking at a Minot Joint Service Club meeting at noon in Sleep Inn and Suites.

Those who knew Polk are invited to share messages and stories to be compiled into a book to present to him. Stories, along with RSVPs for either of the Minot or Garrison celebrations, should be sent to polkevent@gmail.com.

There is no charge for any of the events. However, donations are being accepted to offset costs. Donations can be sent to Polk Event, First Congregational Church, 35 2nd Ave. SE, Garrison, ND 58540.