We believe people serve where they are happiest... and we'd love to help you find your happy place at Inner City Ministry!

2025 Catfish Dinner Results

$241,343 and counting!


We had a tremendous annual Catfish Dinner event on Thursday, March 27th, and Friday, March 28th!  The fellowship and food were excellent!

We are pleased to announce that $241,343 was raised over the two nights, and additional contributions are still coming in. With your generous support, we are making a significant impact on the lives of Nashville’s inner-city children and families by teaching them about Jesus and encouraging them to “love more, hate less.”

You may continue to donate at www.innercityministry.org or mail checks to: Nashville Inner City Ministry, c/o Catfish Dinner,  1000 Apex Street, Nashville, TN  37206.

Thank you, and may God bless you! 

The Candy Bar by Lytle Thomas

The Candy Bar is at the heart of The Dawn of Nashville Inner City Ministry. In this book, you will read the story of Lytle Thomas's wife, Sandra, and a kind man named Frank Vester. Sandra's respect for "Frankie Doodle-Doo" broad-brushed to people of every race. Years later, this respect led to Sandra inviting several children to Vacation Bible School. One good thing led to another, and Nashville Inner City Ministry was born.

Beloved by many, Lytle Thomas has a unique storytelling ability, which makes The Candy Bar: The Dawn of Nashville Inner City Ministry an easy read and a true treasure. Open the book, read this special story, and feel the dawn of God's love in your heart.

Sandra and Lytle Thomas
Young male laughing in a group

Our Programs

It’s time to bring Jesus out of our church buildings and into the community – where hurting people are in desperate need of His love.

  • Weekly classes for children aged 3-16.

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  • Community visitation, Transportation to the learning center and, more importantly, meaningful communication and connection with our inner city youth.

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  • Spiritual instruction with discussion, Life skills, encouragement, conflict management, and more for inner city teens.

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  • A wide variety of opportunities to serve your community and connect with our most vulnerable youth.

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