PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As 200 National Guard troops prepare to deploy in Portland this week, residents across the city are grappling with fear and uncertainty. On Sunday, the pews of Augustana Lutheran Church in Northeast Portland were filled with worshippers — some regulars, many first-time visitors — seeking solace in community and reassurance that they are not alone.
A Church Filled With Concern and Compassion
The Rev. Dr. Mark Knutson, pastor at Augustana Lutheran, described the service as a moment of unity and defiance.
“We have a lot of people in church yesterday, and people who have never been before,” Knutson said. “They’re looking for a place to hear words of compassion and love and also action. It’s about saying to this administration: Portland is not in any war zone. It’s a beautiful city.”
The service drew faith leaders, community organizers, and city officials. Many hoped to send a message of support to Portland’s large migrant population, which has expressed heightened fear about the coming troop presence…