Prominent Black L.A Pastors Launch 2023 Apology Tour in South Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA—Over 40 influential Southern California Black pastors have embark on what is known as The Apology Tour, aiming to restore the connection between churches and Black communities in South Los Angeles. Led by Pastor Shep Crawford, Grammy Award-winning producer and co-pastor of Experience Christian Ministries, this tour seeks to address the strained relationships between the Black church and the local community.
The mission of The Apology Tour, organized during a walk-out today of churches in key Black communities, is summarized as CPR (Connection, Partnership, and Relationship), and encompasses three key objectives.
- Reintroduce the church to the community, bridging gaps that may have formed over time.
- Emphasizes the importance of partnership, encouraging churches to collaborate with schools, parks, recreation centers, politicians, law enforcement agencies, and various community and faith-based organizations.
- Heal strained communal relationships, fostering a sense of unity and understanding.
Dr. Melina Abdullah, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles, affirmed the importance of spirituality in liberation movements and pledged support, saying, “Black Lives Matter – Los Angeles plans to be fully engaged partners.” Pastor Shep Crawford himself emphasized the need for the church to be an active part of the community, stating, “The building serves as a gas station, but the ultimate destination is to create a healthy community.”
Pastor Shep Crawford has garnered national recognition as the pastor who delivered the eulogy for the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, earning him the status of a trusted ally and peacemaker in gang culture. Additionally, Pastor Shep is a Grammy Award-winning musician, songwriter, and record producer, known for his contributions to songs like Whitney Houston’s “Same Script, Different Cast,” Deborah Cox’s “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here,” Tamia’s “Stranger in My House,” Sisqó’s “Incomplete,” and Kelly Price’s “As We Lay.”
A press conference held May 27th brung together participating faith leaders, local residents, stakeholders, and elected officials to discuss the significance of the year long Apology Tour.
Read More: Pastor launches Apology Tour to engage communities
Pastor Shep Crawford was joined by 40 pastors from Los Angeles, Pasadena, Compton, Long Beach, Inglewood, Watts, South Central, and San Bernardino, all committed to making a positive impact through The Apology Tour. Their collective effort aims to address the shortcomings of the church and provide alternative avenues for community members.
Pastor Shep noted failures on behalf of the Black church in assisting Black communities in Los Angeles during times of crisis.
Bishop Noel Jones from the City of Refuge Church expressed his remorse, stating, “The Apology Tour has my total approbation. I am sorry for failing to provide more wonderful alternatives for our community’s sons and daughters.”
The Apology Tour is a significant step towards restoring the relationship between churches and Black communities in South Los Angeles. By bringing together influential pastors, residents, and stakeholders, this initiative seeks to rebuild trust, foster collaboration, and create a healthier, more united community.
