On July 16, 2016, The Presbyterian Mission Agency featured Westminster Presbyterian Church of Los Angeles and Pastor Carlton Rhoden’s views on embracing the community.
“Los Angeles Pastor Explores Value of Community Connections
Carlton Rhoden has challenging responsibilities as pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles. Longtime residents of the inner city have witnessed an exodus to the suburbs while an increase in crime, gang violence and drugs has made life difficult for those who remained behind. Still, the church takes its mission seriously: “Celebrating 110 years of God’s grace serving the community with the love of Jesus Christ.”
But after years of living in the suburbs, families are beginning to return to the inner city and they’re bringing suburban ideas with them.
“Interesting dialogue is now taking place about the role of the church and my role as a minister in this area,” said Rhoden. “People who have been here for generations are beginning to feel displaced as new residents from the suburbs return to the city. There are a number of faith communities that are dealing with this issue.”
Rhoden believes the church needs to take on the role of communicator/builder and a voice for traditions in the community. He says congregations who did not leave can help new residents understand community issues without supplanting traditions and relationships that are working but might not be initially visible.
“For example, right across the street from our church is Leslie Shaw Park. Shaw was one of the first African American postmasters in the U.S., and the park is dedicated to him,” he said. “We recently rededicated the park, and the city spent more than $1 million renovating it because it had been used as a gathering place for drug dealers and users.”
In recent meetings about uses for the park, Rhoden says, many newer residents wanted to make it a dog park. “I found that interesting because there is very little green space in our community for children to play, and the newer residents wanted to make it a dog park.”
Westminster Presbyterian Church averages 150 members in a community with serious drug and alcohol problems. There are few businesses such as grocery stores within walking distance. While many churches have sought the suburbs, Rhoden and his congregation have chosen to stay put.
“What is my role as a Christian minister? Is it my job to move a church to a ‘safer neighborhood’?” Rhoden asked. “Why not deal with the issues that are here and involve the community on how to have a greater impact? Show the love of Jesus Christ. That’s how I view it.” – Click Here to Read the Full Article
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