Broad Street Ministry in Philadelphia stands as an innovative Christian community deeply committed to serving the city’s most vulnerable populations. Located on the Avenue of the Arts, this unique ministry has evolved from historic roots to become a vital resource for individuals experiencing housing insecurity and poverty.
Originally formed in 1887 through the merger of two downtown churches, Chambers and Wylie Memorial Presbyterian Churches, the newly combined congregation became Chambers-Wylie Memorial Presbyterian Church. They commissioned renowned local architects Rankin & Kellogg to create a striking Gothic Revival building, drawing inspiration from Ripon Cathedral in Yorkshire, England. The building, adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows by Nicola D’Ascenzo, served the congregation until its closure in 1999. After a brief period with the University of the Arts, the building found new life in 2005 when Rev. Bill Golderer established Broad Street Ministry.
From its inception, Broad Street Ministry distinguished itself by prioritizing “generous hospitality, demonstrating justice and compassion, and providing a ground for artistic expression.” This mission translates into a wide array of programs designed to support Philadelphia’s low-income residents and those facing housing instability. Their flagship initiative, the Hospitality Collaborative, exemplifies this commitment, serving over 7,000 individuals annually. This program offers essential daily meals to nearly 250 people, alongside crucial health services, personal care items, clothing provisions, therapeutic arts programs, and even a vital mailing address service for over 3,000 guests. Recognizing the complex needs of the community, Broad Street Ministry also partners with the Philadelphia Department of Prisons to provide invaluable employment assistance and case management services to formerly incarcerated individuals, aiding their reintegration into society.
The significance of Broad Street Ministry’s work and its historical building is underscored by a $250,000 National Fund grant, amplified by over $1.5 million in matching funds raised by the dedicated congregation. These funds facilitated critical repairs to the stone masonry of the church’s two prominent towers. This essential exterior restoration work ensured the structural integrity of the towers and the continued safety of all who benefit from the ministry’s services.
In a strategic shift in March 2022, Broad Street Ministry made a pivotal decision to discontinue traditional church services. This change allowed them to intensify their focus on direct pastoral care for individuals grappling with housing instability and financial hardship. This redirection reaffirms Broad Street Ministry’s unwavering commitment to serving as a sanctuary and resource for Philadelphia’s most marginalized, solidifying its role as a true beacon of hope and support within the city.
