© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Mediator: Lansing church dispute at an impasse

Nicole Strobel

The sign on the vacant church building on Pleasant Grove in south Lansing says “Friendship Baptist,” but in recent months relations between two groups within the congregation have been anything but friendly.The church has been shut down more than a month in a bitter dispute between two factions battling for control. In June, one side barricaded the doors, denying entry to the other. What was once a united congregation has been holding services in two separate locations. The city of Lansing is trying to mediate the conflict.

To gain more insight into the conflict, Current State speaks with Bishop David Maxwell, a local clergy leader and director of the city of Lansing’s Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives.

Kevin Lavery served as a general assignment reporter and occasional local host for Morning Edition and All Things Considered before retiring in 2023.
Related Content
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!