Set Free by Jesus Church (SFJC) was established in 1995 as an outgrowth of a Thursday evening Bible Study at Loveman Village, a federal housing site. When we began the Bible study, we were prepared to teach adults, but the gymnasium filled up with children. We had five children at home, so we relied on our knowledge of their preferences as we planned the lessons. God entrusted His very own children to our care. He is a Father to the fatherless. That was many Christmas parties, summer camps, and outreaches ago. Truth be told, we have learned more than the children.

Upon arrival in Birmingham, God gave us a passage from Isaiah (58:11-12) that frames our SF ministry:

The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Those from among you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach, The Restorer of Streets to Dwell In.

Our city has many abandoned buildings, overgrown vacant lots, and burned out houses. The heart of the city is mostly inhabited by individuals with very little income. We have one of the highest rates for violent crimes in the US for our size. Most of the victims know their attackers. Some of the problems are generational in nature such as gang affiliation and alcohol and substance abuse.

Our city also played a vital but violent role during the Civil Rights demonstrations. Birmingham is known for division, and strategically positioned graven images throught the high places of the city.

God established Set Free by Jesus Church to reach out to hurting people in the inner city of Birmingham. Some of them have never met Jesus. We introduce them. Some of them have wandered far away. We help them find their way home to Jesus.

God also positioned SFJC as a freedom outpost in Birmingham. We are an open gate to Holy Spirit, a portal to heaven. Though housed in an old brick building with a former garage as the sanctuary, SFJC is a beacon in a dark place. Just as a lighthouse aids ships in finding safe harbor during a storm, SFJC assists those who are in the midst of life's storms and turmoil to find safe harbor IN Jesus.

We receive whomever God sends, no matter what age, race, nationality, or financial status. We assist in the natural realm as well as the spiritual realm by providing a meal at Sunday services and snacks at Tuesday services. We also distribute clothing and basic school supplies.

We teach the word of God and welcome the spirit of prophecy. We pray for healing and deliverance. We model mercy. Everyone who comes to SFJC is special and valuable to Jesus. We all need each other.