In the months that followed the death of Freddie Gray, a group of pastors and laypersons began prayer-walking and speaking with people throughout the neighborhoods surrounding Pennsylvania Avenue.  While people expressed love for their neighborhood, there was also lament over what it had become, and despair that “this place is never going to change.”

During one particular prayer walk, two pastors noted a house with verses of Scripture posted in all the windows. Across the street was a parking lot. Somewhat jokingly, which turned out to be prophetically, noted that maybe someday there would be a party in that parking lot.

As only God would orchestrate, a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church had a relationship with the pastor of New Bethlehem Baptist Church, who owned the parking lot, and shared their space for the party to take place! About 70 people from Lutheran churches throughout Maryland helped to host the party. The event began with a prayer walk, where small groups fanned out to pray and invite neighbors to the party.  Throughout the afternoon, we enjoyed visiting with approximately 200 residents in the community.

There was music, singing, and a beautiful proclamation of the gospel. Children had a great time in the inflated bounce house.  People ate, visited, got to know one another, shared a common hope in God, and we witnessed lots of joy! We give thanks for all who came.