Harrisburg First works with other churches against drug, gang violence.

Pastors at First Church of the Brethren in Harrisburg, Pa., recently received "a touching letter" from a young man who used to attend the Hispanic congregation at the church, located in the South Allison Hill neighborhood. The letter was written from prison. Repentant for his involvement in gangs and drugs after he read news reports of prayer vigils for peace by pastors of the South Allison Hill churches, the young man expressed gratitude for efforts of those taking a stand. The vigils were begun after shooting deaths on a nearby street corner.

Knowing that people are praying for peace in the neighborhood where his infant daughter lives with her grandmother touched the writer's life to the point that he wants to become a counselor for those still involved in gangs, said Belita Mitchell, First church pastor.

That change in one young man is emblematic of the kind of transformation she is seeing in the neighborhood because of the combined prayers for peace, she said. "It's just another way in which the vigils have touched the community."

The area has seen an increase in police activity and at least three drug busts since the vigils began five months ago. "The Patriot News" reported that the busts broke the grip of the gang that reportedly has had control of South Allison Hill since the mid- to late-1990s. Members of the gang that were involved in the drug busts were as young as 10 or 11, the newspaper said.

In addition, police officers have asked if they can surveil an alley adjacent to the church, where drug deals have been frequent, said Mitchell. She said she is receiving the news of more police activity "as an answer to prayer, giving God praise and glory."

Because of the changes that are beginning to be seen in the neighborhood, the weekly prayer vigils are being held monthly at different church locations in the community. The first monthly vigil was hosted May 3 by First Harrisburg in its parking lot. The second was held June 7 at the Peace Garden at the Capitol City Church. "Moving to different locations in the community is increasing the awareness among residents and widening the circle of influence," Mitchell said. "I anticipate continued strong support and increased evidence of God's faithfulness."

The neighborhood churches also plan ecumenical outdoor rallies for the summer that will combine evangelism with the continued work for peace on the streets, and neighborhood prayer walking by church leaders. Mitchell said the events will "let the community know...we are praying on their behalf."

Source: 06/08/2005 Newsline
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