How about a story about a church that started with just one member? That is the story of the Ark of Safety Christian Church. This church began in December 1998. Its inaugural service occurred on March 7 1999.
The Ark of Safety Christian Church started in Dr. Kevin and Pastor Brenda Cropper’s home. Only their two youngest children Kaveena and Justin were present. Their oldest child Ardell served in the U.S. Army. The church began to grow in the Word of God.
They planned to leave the house within a year. But God kept them there for three and a half years. The Ark of Safety Christian Church grew while searching for a building. Pastor Brenda found a building on the corner of 62nd and Walnut St. It needed extensive work. God placed them there to work in the community. The rehab reminded them how the Lord restores broken lives.
The church served the area faithfully for eight years. After those eight years, God moved them into the Summit Inn hotel. Again, they searched for a building to serve the Kingdom of God. They intended to stay in the hotel for only one year. God maintained them there for three years. The Ark of Safety Christian Church ministered to a transient community. Hotel guests attended services and were blessed. The church encouraged them and prayed for them. It was God’s way of taking the church to the people.
Pastor Brenda located another church home at 3875 Poplar St. God blessed them with a location where the gospel was needed. The Ark of Safety Christian Church impacted the community. This resulted in church growth. This growth came from committed outreach endeavors. They wanted to impact the community with the goodness of Jesus Christ.
On December 31 2010, the Ark of Safety Christian Church joined the Bethel Deliverance International Fellowship of Churches. Bishop Eric A. Lambert Jr. led this fellowship.
The Ark of Safety Christian Church continues to carry out the Lord Jesus Christ’s mandate. They apply the church’s vision. This is to make disciples for the advancement of the Kingdom of God. They do this for those in need. They do this for the good of the community.
Interestingly, the Ark of Safety Christian Church also has a presence as a Young Adult Catholic Community in Washington D.C.. They call, form, and send young professionals to be salt and light. They serve in the Church and the Nation’s Capital. They offer opportunities for spiritual formation and small group community. They strive to welcome newcomers and strengthen disciples. They equip young professionals for their mission in life.
One member, Mike Ginsberg, noted how friendly everyone was. He also noted how genuinely glad they were to worship together. Maricarmen Barron Esper shared how the ARK community catalyzed her relationship with God.
So, the Ark of Safety Christian Church is more than just a church. It’s a place where faith grows. It’s a place where community thrives. It’s a place where lives are transformed.