1) Oh, no!
Oh Yes!
2) Really, you can't live where you are and minister downtown?
No. That, for us, would be like missionaries called to Uganda but choosing to live in London. We have been called DOWNTOWN. Like missionaries to Uganda, we will move to the place, people, and culture we are called to.
3) Downtown is so dangerous.
Well, sure, so is the bathroom - lots of people are injured and killed in the shower. But, I know what you are thinking - gangs, guns, thugs, and violence. The crime rate in the downtown area is actually lower than other suburban areas. So, statistically we will actually be safer than most of you!
4) You're gonna get mugged.
That was just this week! See above, and avoid all malls, shopping centers, WalMarts, and grocery stores.
5) I didn't think there were any decent places to live downtown?
Wow. Have you been downtown? some of the most beautiful homes and neighborhoods can be found downtown.
In fact, I wanted some of you to see one of the neighborhoods we are looking at - home of the Pink House. This hood is about 7 blocks from the 567 and the Capitol Theater. The homes are late 1800s for the most part. There are several churches just down the street - St Josephs Catholic Church - a beautiful Cathedral, First Baptist which is right across the street from St Joe's, and the Unitarian Universalist Church! There are 3 parks - 1 just separated from the Pink house by another home, another less than 1 block away, and Washington Park is only 2 blocks away. The streets are beautiful old brick. There is a coffee shop 1 block away as well as a huge library. It is quiet with little traffic - and I could walk or ride my bike to the office...
I understand that not all of New City's people will move downtown - that's OK - it REALLY IS. But WE - My Family - have been called to move to the city.
So - Enjoy some pics of the area:
