Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
The story didn’t follow the script. The ABC evening news had just named the Rev. Larry Rice its “Man of the Week,” and the homeless advocate was mainstream media’s darling. Yet the headline beside the contemplative preacher staring from SLM’s March 1988 cover read, “The Trouble With Larry Rice.” Besides listing his accomplishments, the story noted his combativeness and its consequences.
The 1988 profile detailed the outspoken evangelist’s rise (opening New Life Evangelistic Center’s headquarters in a mobile home in Wellston in 1972, acquiring KNLC Channel 24 in 1982, living austerely even when funds poured in for his organization) and his tumultuous history with the city (staging high-profile events to criticize the mayor, refusing to join the 110-agency Homeless Services Network). It documented the “bleak accommodations” at New Life Evangelistic Center’s downtown shelter, as well as the high number of police calls to the location.
In the 26 years since, Rice has remained in the headlines, drawing both loyal supporters and vocal critics. The debate culminated earlier this year, when more than 100 downtown residents signed a petition complaining of lewd acts, loitering, and other concerns surrounding NLEC’s Locust Street shelter. In September, the St. Louis Board of Public Service began hearing arguments about whether to revoke the shelter’s permit. At press time, the outcome was uncertain, though both parties vowed not to back down.
For three months, senior editor William Powell followed the story. He talked to Rice, his supporters, his critics, and city officials. The resulting 10-page story (p. 60) explores Rice and NLEC’s controversial past, while grappling with the complex issues regarding homelessness in St. Louis. It’s a vital topic, one that spurred us to put Rice back on the cover.
The magazine has a long history of publishing in-depth stories like this one. Last month’s issue marked our 50th anniversary, and in these five decades, we’ve written about civic issues, civil rights, and the strong individuals and organizations that weave the life of the city. For the rest of this year, St. Louis’ 250th, we plan to devote at least one story each month to St. Louis’ complex history—and continue to examine the forces that will shape our future.
