Church Receives Threats Over Offer of Help for Refugees

The pastor of a Menifee church that has offered to house Syrian refugees said today he has received a threatening voice mail and that a sign containing messages of hate was posted on the front lawn of the building.

Rev. Bill Freeman of the Menifee United Church of Christ in the Sun City community of Menifee said someone posted a sign saying "This church is a blasphemous cult" and that Freeman "preaches a gospel different than Jesus." Freeman said the sign might have been up for more than a day before church staff members noticed and removed it.

In addition, Freeman said he received an anonymous voice mail Friday night saying there would be protests if Syrian refugees arrived at the church. The message contained racial slurs and profanity.

"We are just trying to do what I believe Jesus would want us to do and then this happens," said Freeman, who announced last week that his church, which already provides shelter for four homeless people, could take in "a couple" of Syrian refugees.

In a phone interview today, Freeman said he discussed his idea with leaders of the congregation before making the offer, which was broadcast on local television outlets last week. He said he knows the topic of Syrian refugees coming to the U.S. is a controversial one, but he believes his church is doing the right thing.

"I checked with the leaders of our church and we felt we could provide residential assistance," said Freeman, who added that there is a room at the church available to house at least two refugees. "We had a couple church members express concern because of what has been in the news, but for the most part, this offer has been accepted by our congregation."

Menifee Police officers responded to the location to answer a call from Freeman today. Deputy Mike Vasquez said police are investigating the incident but at this point, "the level of crime does not meet the level of a hate crime."

Freeman said he has received no indication that Syrian refugees might be placed at the church and that his understanding is it would take months for the vetting of such individuals before any could come there.