Christianity is exploding in New York City….and it’s happening in unorthodox ways.
New York City churches don’t have sprawling campuses and freshly painted white steeples. Many of the city’s most prominent and influential churches don’t even have a permanent location—much less a sign tacked on the front. But without these Bible Belt trappings, Christianity is exploding at unprecedented rates— 300 percent growth in 20 years.
New York City churches tread the line between community center and place of worship; they are a mixture of ESL classes in the basement, bi-vocational pastors, after-school programs and co-op gardens behind project buildings. They are dinner parties on Wednesday nights and artist collective meetings in recording studios.
Like the city itself, they have a persistent, rich diversity.
For years going to church was an afterthought in New York, a thing presumed to be dead or at least quickly dying, but after 9/11 it surged back to life as faith became part of the healing process. More new churches started showing up, and it hasn’t slowed down since.
Another important ingredient: Pastors are collaborating with each other.
Fernando Cabrera, pastor of New Life International Church in the Bronx says they’re sharing encouragement, strategy, and communication….adding, “New Yorkers are leading the way in terms of church unity. They really want to see each other’s ministries succeed.