In 1887, two downtown Philadelphia churches, the Chambers and Wylie Memorial churches, merged into the Chambers-Wylie Memorial Presbyterian Church. The combined church commissioned notable local architects Rankin & Kellogg to design a Gothic Revival building modeled after Ripon Cathedral in Yorkshire, England. The building features stained-glass windows by Nicola D’Ascenzo. The Chambers-Wylie Church closed in 1999. After the building was briefly occupied by the University of the Arts, Rev. Bill Golderer opened Broad Street Ministry’s doors in 2005. Located on Avenue of the Arts, Broad Street Ministry developed “as an innovative Christian faith community that emphasizes the Gospel imperatives of extending generous hospitality, demonstrating justice and compassion, and providing a ground for artistic expression,” according to the congregation.

Since its founding, Broad Street Ministry has created a number of programs that largely focus on providing services for Philadelphia’s low-income residents and people experiencing housing insecurity. The congregation’s flagship program, the Hospitality Collaborative, serves over 7,000 people a year. The program offers a daily meal for almost 250 people, health services, personal care items, clothing, therapeutic arts, and a mailing address to over 3,000 guests. Broad Street Ministry is also collaborating with the Philadelphia Department of Prisons to assist formerly incarcerated individuals with finding employment and case management services.

A $250,000 National Fund grant with over $1.5 million in matching funds raised by the congregation allowed Broad Street Ministry to stabilize the stone masonry on two stone towers. This exterior repair work was essential for ensuring the stability of the towers’ upper portions and the safety of all who utilize the building. 

Note: In March 2022, Broad Street Ministry made the decision to stop hosting church services in order to focus on increasing direct pastoral care to people experiencing housing instability and financial hardship

Broad Street Ministry courtesy Aegis Property Group

Broad Street Ministry courtesy Broad Street Ministry