Church admits sprinkler system was to scare away the homeless

SAN FRANCISCO -

A sprinkler system at St. Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco has for two years been drenching people who seek shelter there.

Why the church's leaders installed the sprinklers is drawing criticism.

The San Francisco Archdiocese says they put in the sprinkler system two years ago to deter the homeless and keep the grounds clean.

They also admit they never got a permit to install the sprinklers, but now they had to get one to dismantle them.

Homeless advocates are outraged and church leaders are apologizing.

"It actually had an opposite effect from what it was intended to do, and for that we are very sorry and apologize," said Bishop William Justice.

The church says they plan to continue their efforts to feed and house the homeless, pointing out that St Mary's opens its door for shelter and food for three weeks over the holidays.

View original post here:
Church admits sprinkler system was to scare away the homeless