A Journalist in the Hood

I went to a lecture series at the North Long Beach Community Prayer Center to hear Michael Rutledge McCall talk about what he's learned from God and the gangsters in some of the harshest areas of South Central Los Angeles. For 18 months, Michael - a tall skinny white guy (no offense), immersed himself in the subculture of the black and latino gang life. He's both a believer and a journalist and he speaks about his experiences on a national stage. He's written a book called "Slipping into Darkness" and a movie is currently in production based on it. Michael has an awesome call coming out of it - the call to men to stand up and take responsibility over their families. Awesome time hearing and meeting him. Definitely a relevant talk since the gang violence in North Long Beach continues to escalate.

He's going to continue the lecture series for two more Fridays - June 10th and 17th from 7pm - 9pm. I'm planning on going next week too. I spoke to Susy and some of us will be meeting before the meeting to prayer drive North Long Beach and to pray over the church and for Michael and Pastor Wood.