Updated at: 10/30/2009 6:51 PM | KSAX.com
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Wheaton Pastor Sounds Off on Race, Religion and His Violent Rap Sheet

Wheaton, Minn- From the death of a toddler within the walls of his church to being charged with assault multiple times, Thy Kingdom Come Church Pastor Danny Barnes has been surrounded by controversy.

Barnes preaches to his congregation about avoiding trouble; however, Barnes considers himself to be a violent man.

"I'm characterized by myself as a violent man. I believe that when you have anywhere from 10 to 20 drug abusers, sex offenders, and former criminals you have to be," said Barnes.

According to a report from the Traverse County Sheriff's Department, Barnes' violence has led to him being involved in over 18 cases of assault since 2005.

But Barnes says in some instances violence is justified.

"I'm not going to be a gentleman! When I see Sandy who's 15-years-old getting into the car with Joey who's 34-years-old and I know he's a meth dealer...I'm going to sock him in the mouth! I'm not calling the police. I'm calling the ambulance for your busted lip," said Barnes. 

Barnes says the community and law enforcement just don't understand his ministry.

"They get sober first. Then they get the word of god. Then they get restoration...If during that period there happens to be a flare up I believe I can use any necessary force to subdue the situation and I do," said Barnes.

But after 14-month-old Aundrea Brunlow died inside his church after a fight between two parishioners broke out, some in the community are worried about their own safety.

"The communities just kind of tired. It's a community where you could leave your keys in your car and leave your door unlocked, but know everyone locks there doors," said Anthony Larsen.

But according to Barnes there's a reason why the community doesn't feel safe.

"We've desegregated Wheaton. We've come in here with 10 to 20 African Americans...most of which come from either a criminal or social background that is not conducive to Wheaton's Norwegian farmer mentality," said Barnes.

But Larsen disagrees. "I don't think race has anything to do with it because there are people in this town that are colored. There are whites and coloreds together. I don't think that's an issue at all," said Larsen.

Either way Barnes is steadfast on continuing his ministry in Wheaton.

These are god's people. He gave them to me to minister to and I'm willing to suffer any consequences for ministering to god's people, "said Barnes.

Written for the web by Anthony Kiekow

akiekow@ksax.com