Click here (then click "Login" and close login window) to read about NTS D.Min. student, Pastor Dave Skidmore, in the Medicine Hat News online. The article is also below:
Church brings message of hope to the streets
By Alex McCuaig
Homelessness, prostitution and drug addiction are considered by many as big city afflictions. But according to one pastor who is helping those in Medicine Hat who have fallen through the gaps, these problems are alive and doing well in this city.
From his regular makeshift Sunday afternoon pulpit at Riverside Park, Pastor Dave Skidmore offers those who may have fallen on hard times a kind word along with a meal and music to help them remember that people still care.
“A lot of these people won’t be going to church. They are living on and off the street, addicted to alcohol or crack, hooking and stuff like that and we wanted to provide them with a church that they feel welcome in,” said Pastor Skidmore.
Operating out of the Champion’s Centre and sponsored by the Glenview Nazarene Church, the group has been operating the Street Church for six months.
“Housing is a huge issue. We have emergency shelters but nothing for people in between. Transitional housing is needed,” Skidmore said.
“We are trying create a community of support where these people can help each other.”
Lay pastor Dave Schmierer echoed Skidmore’s remarks.
“These people don’t fit in a normal church service. You mention the word church to them and they just shy away because they have been cast off by society.”
Those wishing to find out more information about the Street Church or how they can help can contact Pastor Dave Skidmore at the Glenview Nazarene Church at 403-529-9300.
~Medicine Hat News online
Posted on
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
by NTS