ST. LOUIS – Faith leaders from St. Louis joined the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and area police chiefs in an important meeting on Thursday night, aimed at strengthening neighborhood partnerships and reducing violence.
The gathering took place at the Urban League’s Bunce Campus in the College Hill neighborhood of the city.
Organizers expressed concerns about uncertainty surrounding federal funding. They also want to make sure partnerships are strengthened with summer approaching.
Police chiefs in attendance shared insights with faith leaders on how partnerships can help reduce violence.
“Places of worship are more than just spiritual centers; they are pillars of stability, support and hope,” said Chief Robert Tracy of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.
Chief Thomas Trice of the Cahokia Heights Police Department highlighted the role that faith leaders play, particularly after the tragic murder of a 15-year-old victim that led to the arrests of three suspects.
“The church is the vital linchpin to the family unit,” Trice said.
Among the Urban League’s initiatives is the Grill to Glory program, which fosters engagement through barbeques aimed at strengthening neighborhoods.
“By partnering with them, we can do more than we would normally be able to do,” said Pastor Richard Ashley of St. Philip’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.
In addition, the Urban League provides “Slow Down” signs to churches as part of a community program designed to enhance street safety.
Police chiefs acknowledged the important role police departments play but emphasized that they are only one part of a larger effort.
“I don’t think there’s a city, state or federal government in this country or world that can survive or even prosper without the help of clergy or pastors,” said Chief Kendall Perry of the East St. Louis Police Department.
Chief Kenneth Gregory of the St. Louis County Police added, “Our faith leaders serve as trusted voices in the community, offering guidance, support, and hope.”
“There is no legislative fix; there is no law enforcement fix. This is a family problem, and this is a neighborhood problem, and we believe that the neighborhood church is that pivotal partner we’ve been working with for years,” said James Clark from St. Louis Faith Leaders Collaborate with Urban League and Police Chiefs to Strengthen Neighborhood Partnerships.
As summer approaches, the partnership between faith leaders, community organizations and law enforcement continues to seek ways to address the challenges facing their neighborhoods.
Urban League officials said churches can play a vital role in funneling resources connected to mental health, violence reduction and drug addiction to their communities.