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“Pastor Bob” Johnson founded Jesus Christ Our Church (JCOC) 20 years ago when he began distributing food in a park. Today, he and his congregation rent out space beneath Open Door Ministries’ sanctuary in Uptown, where they provide hot breakfasts and a cozy space every Saturday.

“I’ve seen a lot of healing here,” said Dale Platt, who’s worked with Pastor Bob for six years.

Many people who come for pancakes and eggs, says Platt, are dealing with addiction and internal conflict. Platt himself was estranged from his kids for years before he found a way to keep on the straight and narrow at JCOC. He spent the Fourth of July with his grandchildren.

Though not everyone seeks out resources beyond a hot breakfast, a few do find their way upstairs for Bible study after eating. Platt prays with the small group, asking for help keeping out of trouble and expressing gratitude that each person found his way there.