Brooklyn Center Church Becomes Place of Refuge
A Brooklyn Center church, located only half a mile away from the city’s police station, has become a safe place for those seeking refuge.
Courtesy: Lutheran Church of The Master.
Lutheran Church of the Master has been providing warmth, restrooms, food and drinks to both protesters and law enforcement.
“Anybody and everybody regardless of race, color, beliefs are welcomed here,” said Associate Pastor Jim Verbout.
Verbout has only been in his current position for one week at LCM. His first day was Sunday, when civil unrest unfolded.
“I took the position in the pastoral call. You have that cute list of everything you think you’re going to do of reaching out into the community and then Sunday happened,” said Verbout.
The church found itself midfield of what some call “a war zone.”
“I’ve prayed with strangers,” said Verbout. “I’ve prayed with people I’ve never thought I would have prayed with.”
Church doors opened past midnight everyday serving dozens seeking respite.
“You follow Christ’s example. Christ didn’t ask ‘who are you?’ What are your credentials?’ Christ said ‘come, come to me, come to the church,’ we are a safe place,” said Verbout.
Verbout said it’s about being Christ’s hands and feet to the community.
