Youth club opens in historic church
BALTIMORE ? Hampden UMC, like many churches located in Baltimore City, is in an area with above average high school drop outs, drugs and addicts are obvious, and there are a lot of teenage and single parents.
The Rev. Robin Johnson had a vision of something the church could offer the youth in the community. He knew the space ? empty space ? the church had in the Memorial Chapel where for decades the Emmanuel?s Rock Bible Class, one of the largest men?s classes on the East Coast, had met.
The church responded to his vision and Emmanuel?s Rock was born. Last December they sold the pews, refinished the floor and built a snack bar, transforming the old classroom into a community and entertainment center for youth and young adults.
Emmanuel?s Rock opened Jan. 19 with a three-day celebration featuring Celia Whitler and Commonroy. It?s mission is 'to provide a safe place for youth and young adults to come and experience God?s grace.'
Volunteers open the club every Friday night, they feature local bands, have popular dances and 'Halo Nights,' and hold a Christian Rock concert quarterly.
On May 19, Sum of One is scheduled to play.
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