“The Lord is our shepherd” on Jamaica Avenue, Queens.

 

Recently, we checked back on Blessed Barber Shop on 144-27 Jamaica Avenue. It is flourishing.

The barber shop was started by Francisco Ajpop and his four brothers — Atoniel, Samuel, Rolando, Cornelio, Rogelio. They grew up in a Christian family in Guatemala but wandered in their faith until coming together in the barber shop.  Atoniel says that when he became 18, “I started thinking more as a person, an adult.” The brothers decided to band together to keep each other accountable and help each other in their new country the United States. The oldest Francisco knew barbering and taught the others.

They speak Christianity in an Indian dialect that goes back to the Incas. Besides attending church three times a week, the brothers cut hair “like a benedicion, a blessing.” Atoniel is reminded of Psalm 23, his favorite:

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

“We want to give life and light. Everyone wants a good life. You find the best life in Jesus.”

 

Older brother Francisco Ajpop from Guatemala.

 

Anointing heads at Blessed Barber Shop

Other faith-based barbershops:

God Bless Barbershop
The King’s Chambers Barbershop
Buddha’s Barbershop

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