“Arise and Build”Â
If one looks at Sharon Baptist’s web site they will see the scripture verse from the book of Nehemiah that has inspired the people of this congregation throughout the years: “…let us arise and build. So they put their hands to the good work.â€Â And so they have.
The church began in 1934 when Mrs. Roberta Cassean and her three children met with Mrs. Mary Matthews for a 9:30 a.m. Sunday School meeting at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in South Philadelphia. Later that morning, the late Rev. Charles H. Bernard led a spiritual worship service. The reverend asked the assembly to come forth and organize a church.
Over 70 years later, the seeds of faithfulness planted by these men and women are still bearing fruit. The people at Sharon Baptist have put feet to their vision from God and have been expanding their territory in the City of Philadelphia and throughout the world. It has been our privilege to work with Sharon Baptist Church, and we rejoice with them as they celebrate their 25th anniversary with Senior Pastor Keith Reed. We have partnered with the church, Pastor Reed, and his leadership team in planning and constructing several different types of buildings. In each instance, the program for the design grew from the people group that Sharon wanted to impact in real and practical ways.
A few years ago, they brought on a team of professionals to assist individuals and small businesses with their financial needs. We joined with them in designing and building a facility that would house a Credit Union. They make funds available, at very reasonable interest rates, to those who are trying to start a new business or achieve financial stability.
Recognizing that not every one in the community will come to their church, Pastor Reed has a weekly message that he shares over the radio. The people of his flock were willing to invest in a space that is used to spread the message of hope to those who so desperately need to hear it.
Presently, Sharon is about to begin the construction of a new building whose design is meant specifically for young people. Recognizing that young people are the future of the Church, Sharon has willingly committed time, money and energy into designing a space where young people will meet and worship the Lord in their own unique way.
Sharon continuously looks to the future to ensure that they meet the needs of their church family and the surrounding community. They are considering building a senior housing facility and a family life center. This congregation truly does rise to the vision the Lord places before them!
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