City officials say they gave advance notice about the demolition of the bridge.
Today was the deadline for anyone left to move, including Pastor Ray Polk.
For Pastor Ray Polk, his ministry under the Monterey Street bridge has come to an end.
"See, I've been here 4 years. It's time for me to go on."
Polk's been going seven days a week, making sure his fellow homeless don't lose hope.
"I have to do God's will to the end. I can't crack my faith."
...and neither could the City of Fresno.
City workers came out to enforce the deadline for the homeless still under the bridge to move.
Dixie Salazar, Activist: "I think it's horrible. I mean, I personally could not do this. Even if it's my job, I couldn't do it. Could you do it? Take down someone's church?"
City officials say they have no choice.
The deteriorating Monterey Street bridge has become a public safety hazard, and has to be demolished.
Patrick Wiemiller, Fresno Public Works Dept.: "We're carefully packaging up things and moving them into storage. We've given people advance notice that we were going to be coming in."
While many are sad to see ray go, it's not the end of the world.
Kendra Aslin, Supporter: "A church isn't made of 4 walls. 4 walls doesn't make any of our churches, and neither does this piece of property. So, it doesn't change the ministry. It doesn't change the calling. And Ray's calling and his church will still function wherever he's at."
Ray Polk, Homeless Minister: "The church is a channel for God to send his message to the world... of mercy, of love, of judgement, forgiveness... and hope."
So, what's next for Pastor Polk?
He says it's time to refresh.
He'll be taking a two week vacation, which starts with a little quiet time...
Just Ray... And his bible.
Preparations to demolish the Monterey Street bridge began this afternoon.
Parts of the bridge could start coming down as early as Wednesday.
TXT 24
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