There are 1.6 million people in Philadelphia - people that are hurting and seeking truth. Although the city has deep roots in religion and established churches, the vast majority of Philadelphians are not plugged into a local church. Philadelphia lost a reported 1,214 lives to overdose in 2020, the murder rate hit a reported historic level of 561 in 2021, and it is the poorest of the ten largest cities in America. Additionally, only 14.8% of our population is actually scripture engaged - a 6.7% decline since 2020. The truth is that consistent church attendance significantly improves your mental health.
People who attend a Christian church regularly are 29% less likely to be depressed, five times less likely to commit suicide, have reduced anxiety, and are the only population segment whose mental health improved during 2020. One of the most evangelistic things we can do is establish neighborhood-driven churches that become part of the community. And right now, as many are leaving the city in droves, we are telling our city that we aren’t going anywhere!
Our church has battled back over the last few years with incredible fortitude from the Holy Spirit. We’ve opened new locations, moved venues many times, hired staff, fasted, prayed, and have positioned ourselves for this tremendous move of God. There’s only one piece left for us to overcome together, and that is finding long term facilities for some locations.
One of the greatest challenges and threats to our generational viability is the insecurity of where we gather. From landlords, to city regulations, and ultimately not being in control of our own destiny, our ability to serve our communities and evangelize effectively is greatly limited. For us to truly be here to stay, we must acquire our own strategic bases throughout our city and region. As you prayerfully read through this brochure, we’re certain that God will compel you to sacrifice and significantly participate in this “impossible” venture of securing facilities in Philadelphia and reviving every block. This mandate is a reminder of Luke 18:27, “Jesus replied, ‘What is impossible with man is possible with God.’”
With that, we love you so much and are thrilled to partner together in this remarkable season and adventure.
Here to Stay,
Pastors Joey and Lauren Furjanic
The Block Church can no longer leave our destiny and future in the hands of landlords. During 2020, we learned how volatile and vulnerable our ministry could be without having our own spaces to gather for services, base outreach out of, do personal ministry, and broadcast to the world.
Furthermore, as our church ages, we must consider the longevity and energy of our extraordinary volunteers as they’ve consistently set up and torn down countless places. To maximize reaching people for Jesus and to provide sustainable ministry long term, acquiring facilities in strategic places is our best next move. Finally, not having a larger facility or a broadcast facility limits our ability to host large events, worship concerts, conferences, large scale outreaches, and midweek opportunities.
From one being the lowest and ten being the highest, we’re at an eleven. We have contracts and leases that are ending without guarantee of renewal. We are especially limited in parking and growth space (specifically in The Block Kids), so to identify, purchase, and renovate in sooner than two years is in our best interest.
