*Devin entered the church slowly, looking around as if unsure he should be here... or maybe he was waiting for lightning to strike him for entering a holy place. Either way he did his best to look earnest.

He was dressed in faded blue jeans, a dark green t-shirt and work boots, everything looks as though it was bought from Wal-mart. His hands were calloused like any working mans, yet he seemed to have the physique of a body builder. His tattoo's and shaved head would make most think ex-con and they'd be right. He's big, dumb and a walking stereotype but he has his purposes.

A cough to let someone know he's there as he dunks his whole hand in the holy water and makes a clumsy sign of the cross before slinking into a pew. *

The church isn’t completely empty. He spies who must be the Reverend, speaking with some kid, probably a troubled youth sent here by his parents, though he doesn’t seem to be getting any sort of lecture, but a frank discussion.

Desmond glances up hearing the man arrive and he gives him a smile, but finishes off his current conversation first. Once the young man is gone, the preacher looks over to where Devin had sat, walking over and giving a warm welcome. He makes no judgments on this man’s character or looks, even if he does have a shady look to him... “Good evening, sir. Welcome to the Spirit of Hope.”

..hey there man, I aint stealing nothin' jus here ta pray. *He seems almost skittish and none too bright, as if afraid the priest might give him the boot.* Change mah ways and going straight now.

“I did not think you were here to steal anything.” He says honestly. “It is alright. Everyone is welcome here, whatever their past transgressions. The Lord forgives you, and we do not judge here.” He smiles, trying to ease the man’s fears. “I simply wanted to introduce myself. I am the Pastor, Desmond Quade.” He offers his hand.

*He stares at the hand a moment then shakes it, his grip firm but tries not to crush the man. * Uh thanks... I'm Doug Marshall. Jus' wanna ask god to help me along... gettin it together. Job and all that. Ya got mass here that I could ya know come to or somethin?

His grip is firm in a gentle kind of way, not quite as strong. “It is nice to meet you Doug.” He lets his hand go, then nods. “Of course, every Sunday, 8:30 and 11am.” He smiles. “If you are interested in any other events, let me know. We have Prayer services, Bible studies, choir… I am trying to revive some more community involved activities as well.”

Well I sure do 'preciate all that Sir and uh maybe the prayer services, dont know yet what mah schedule will be zactly. *He shifts just slightly in his pew and shrugs those broad shoulders.* Gotta work what they tells me to work and all.

"Of course." He nods in understanding. "I am always willing to accommodate for those who cannot make it to either services. So you just let me know if that's the case."

Yes Sir I will. *He nods and looks down at his dirty construction boots.* Maybe we can talk another time but I got curfew now, need to be back at the home. *He stands slowly, towering over the man probably.* Was nice to meetcha Sir, I'll be back.

The preacher is a little on the short side, and has to crane his neck to smile up at Devin. "Great. And remember, if you need any help, or just someone to talk to, don't hesitate to find me." A friendly pat to the man's upper arm, as he can't quite reach his shoulder. "God be with you."

An' with you Sir. *He lumbers off towards the doors, making the sign of the cross again before he's gone.*

Desmond watches the man leave. With a smile he looks around his church, like he is feeling as if he might just be starting to make a difference... He then heads back into his office to continue working on his next sermon.