Smart Justice Where Others Fled, They Built
Jul 31, 2025
Mark DeYmaz, pastor of Mosaic Church in Little Rock, Arkansas, passionately discusses his mission to rebuild trust in high-crime neighborhoods. He emphasizes the importance of meeting people's needs for significance and security to prevent violence. DeYmaz shares insights on transforming abandoned spaces into community hubs offering essential services like food and counseling. He highlights the power of collaboration among diverse groups and the vital role of empathy and mentorship in fostering lasting change and hope for future generations.
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Building a Diverse Church in Crisis
- Pastor Mark DeYmaz founded a multi-ethnic, economically diverse Mosaic Church in a high-crime area with prevalent homelessness and opioid abuse.
- The church embraces diverse people including very marginalized groups and fosters unity despite political and racial divides.
Community Hub Builds Trust
- Creating a community hub offering diverse services builds relational trust, significance, and security needed to reduce violence.
- Meeting practical and spiritual needs together fosters community participation and individual purpose.
Significance and Security Matter Most
- Every person needs significance and security: meaning in life and trusting relationships to thrive.
- Helping young people discover these needs reduces violence linked to rage and lack of opportunity.