When you think of “dire poverty,” think of the South Bronx, where unemployment and poverty rates are among the highest in the U.S. The poverty is not just economic. Spiritually, the situation is closer to bankruptcy, and many lives are broken apart by the degrading effects of sin. Because of the difficult spiritual climate, accompanied by much violent crime and incredibly high New York City real estate prices, it is nearly impossible to start a fundamental work in the area.
Ten years ago, Marty and Valerie Silverberg stepped into this environment to plant Christ’s hope in the form of a Bible-teaching church, Commonwealth Community Baptist Church. Despite the area’s severe poverty, property values are sky-high. For the last several years the church has met in a storefront measuring only 11’ x 24’. Rent for this tiny building is $2000 a month.
A new home in sight
But the congregation eagerly eyes the construction taking place 100 feet away—a property that will give them a permanent presence in their community. According to Marty: “In the eyes of this community, having this building ‘means we are a church,’ and people will be willing to come to this facility, where they will hear the gospel of Christ, many for the first time in their lives.”
The Silverbergs have purchased the only acceptably sized property they could find for a church: an abandoned and dilapidated synagogue. The building was so rundown, the roof was ready to collapse and the walls were not far behind. But the Lord is completing a remarkable transformation.
Help from the family of God
Marty and Valerie received on-site help from church-construction missionaries sent through Continental Baptist Missions, along with help from numerous volunteer teams. God’s people have poured out financial generosity too. When the Silverbergs had originally pursued the property at an auction, they lost it, not having the $620,000 needed for purchase. But seven months later, after supporters from around the country rallied behind this project, the building miraculously went up for auction again. The Silverbergs were able to purchase it for $561,000—the entire amount raised by God’s people.
All told, more than one million dollars have been given to purchase and renovate the property, an amount that would have been impossible for the Silverbergs’ low-income congregation to raise. The funds came from churches and individuals but mostly through small gifts from ordinary people whose hearts the Lord has touched to help reach lost and hurting souls in the South Bronx with the love of Christ.
New York City’s legal codes have complicated the process, but the renovation is moving forward. The outside has been beautifully finished, and plumbing, studding, electrical, and other inside work remains. Barring any unforeseen delays, the completion date is early fall of 2008.
A future bright with possibilities
Marty says, “Having the building will mean so very much for our ministry and outreach. We will be able to have necessary space for relevant ministries and to start children's ministries. A VBS will be possible, and a food program can begin. We can meet the needs of the community.”