At the forum held inside a hotel conference room in DuBois, Bishop Jack Wisor answered questions and explained the ministry's new Bible-based 12-step program for Megan's Law offenders.

"We want to try to get the victims and the perpatrators to meet and try and get forgiveness there. Some can't because they're court (ordered)," said Wisor.

Wisor said his nonprofit shelter in Brockway, Jefferson County, currently houses 10 sexual offenders and 20 homeless adults; the facility is limited to housing 38 people due to zoning ordinances.

Several people who live near the shelter voiced opposition during the meeting, including concerns about volunteer training and rumors swirling around on websites.

Organizers abruptly ended the community meeting after it was sidelined by shouting and arguments.

"He said, I can be a blessing or a curse. I said, 'It's already been a curse, let's try for a blessing.' He said, 'You haven't seen a curse. If you guys keep it up, I'm just going to bring in all kinds of people'," said Brockway resident Susan Wolfe. "It's not about the homeless. It's about brining in all of these criminals into a small community."

During the meeting, Wisor told residents that he's been threatened with federal lawsuits if his ministry turns away released convicts and that he's urging people to contact lawmakers and demand more programs and transitional facilities to aide in the growing problem.

"We need to get facilities opened up in every community in Pennsylvania so we can get these people back home with their families and stay connected to programs. That is the most important thing we can fight for right now," said Wisor.