“How can we help?” This is a question at the heart of the CDC Baptist Church. Let’s explore the story of this church. It is a story of faith, loss, and revival.
The Christian Compassion Baptist Church of South Philadelphia, or CCBC, was founded in October 1984. Pastor Sam Slaffey planted the seeds. His mission was clear. Show the Gospel through meeting the needs of families. The CDC Baptist Church became a community hub.
It offered daycare and free clothing. A food pantry provided sustenance. Biblical counseling offered guidance. The CDC Baptist Church was a refuge. This continued until 2020 when the pandemic struck.
Like many churches, the CDC Baptist Church closed its doors. Tragedy then struck the church. Pastor and First Lady Slaffey passed away. Vandals damaged the building. Squatters destroyed church property. They filled it with trash. They stole copper pipes. This caused massive water damage and mold. Unfortunately, the church was not insured.
In February 2023, Rahiam Bango became pastor of the CDC Baptist Church. Just one month after Pastor Slaffey’s passing, he stepped up. Pastor Bango and the new Board of Directors secured the building. They cared for the squatters. They took them to shelters. They showed them Christ’s love.
The building remains closed due to its condition. The CDC Baptist Church has only been able to hold services and Bible studies online. With no building, resources are limited. However, the church remains active. Last summer, they provided back-to-school supplies in front of the church. Church leaders want to do more.
The CDC Baptist Church shares Christ weekly. They engage with the community. They listen to families’ needs. Pastor Bango wants to reopen the church. He aims to provide more resources. He wants to hold worship services again.
Pastor Bango created a four-phase plan to reopen the CDC Baptist Church. Phase one, the “By Faith” Partners campaign, raised money to clean the church. But, $170,000 is still needed. The CDC Baptist Church believes God will reopen the church.
Pastor Bango and the CDC Baptist Church seek to extend Pastor Slaffey’s legacy. The CDC Baptist Church had an online Sunday service at 10:00 AM. Every Wednesday, there is Prayer and Bible Study at 12:00 Noon. Every Thursday, Evangelism and Community Engagement take place at 1:30 PM.
The CDC Baptist Church is a story of resilience. It is a testament to faith. It highlights the power of community. Even without a physical space, their work continues. They adapt, they serve, and they believe. The CDC Baptist Church extends a legacy of love and compassion in South Philadelphia.