FLINT -- Because of the downturn economy and aging membership, many churches in Mid-Michigan are struggling to keep their ministries alive.
But a congregation in Flint decided to bring back an old idea to create new life.
In 2009, Maurice Horne moved to Flint to become the pastor of Lincoln Park United Methodist Church.
He soon realized there was a big problem there.
“I noticed there was a big disconnect between the community and the congregation, and the people in the community weren't really coming out to church," said Pastor Horne.
Membership was just over 100 people, compared to 1,200 in the 1950's.
“I guess with drugs, and crime, and the economy, people began to move out,” said Pastor Horne.
Pastor Horne knew his congregation wanted to make a difference.
“Even when the struggle became very scary they never gave up,” said Pastor Horne.
That’s when the idea for a community soup kitchen came about; long-time member Mary Byam remembers when the church opened one during the depression.
“It was like history repeating itself, but also because we need it,” said member, Mary Byam.
Lincoln Park Church is now the home of the South Flint Soup Kitchen.
Pastor Horne says his church uses the soup kitchen to not only feed the hungry, but to feed their souls as well.
“It's a blessing that you can share what God has given you with others, with the hope that they can see God loves them and that you are an instrument used by God to reach out to them,” said Pastor Horne.
Byam says it's working, and families are starting to come back to church.
“I think it’s wonderful, I think it’s what should be,” said Byam.
Pastor Horne believes one day Flint will be revitalized, and his church will help make it happen.
Lincoln Park United Methodist Church also organized a neighborhood crime watch, which meets every month.
Catholic Charities partnered with Lincoln Park United Methodist to start the South Flint Soup Kitchen.
