“Cornerstone,” a word that speaks of foundations and strength. Here at Cornerstone Baptist Church, that’s precisely what has been built over decades: a foundation of faith, community, and unwavering service.
Cornerstone Baptist Church’s story began in 1980 with Bill Curry and students from Philadelphia College of Bible. They started a Thursday night ministry named Teen Club. It was held at the Kensington Neighborhood House. Many local teens came to enjoy games, activities, and learn about God’s Word. Teen Club continues to serve young people on Thursday nights even today.
In 1987, a children’s ministry called Kids Club began. Bill and PCB students also ran this ministry. It was held on Tuesdays for children aged 5-12. The program grew quickly and blessed many children. They enjoyed singing, games, Bible lessons, and refreshments. Kids Club still meets on Tuesday nights. Thousands of children and teenagers have benefited from Kids Club and Teen Club.
In 1988, Joe and Laurie Darrow moved into Kensington. They began to serve the community. Joe became the director of this inner city ministry. Joe worked to get a new building for the ministry called the Hewitt Center. It was located at 3058 Frankford Avenue. This allowed the youth ministry to expand greatly. The Darrows have served in Kensington for years.
In 1994, Andy and Shannon Schultz moved into Kensington to serve. They had volunteered with Kids Club. Now they dedicated their full-time energies to youth ministry.
Also in 1994, the ministry received a church building to meet in. It was Allegheny Avenue Baptist Church. It was located at the corner of Frankford and Allegheny Avenues. The pastor of Allegheny Avenue Baptist Church helped Bill Curry start Teen Club in 1980. He was called to become a missionary in Nicaragua. Allegheny Avenue Baptist Church had a rich history of ministry since 1883.
Having obtained a church building, Cornerstone Community Church was planted. Sunday services and Bible studies began. Pastor Joe Darrow directed the ministry and Pastor David Grainge preached. The youth ministries grew even more with the larger building.
Extensive renovations occurred over the next 10 years because the building had deteriorated. Funds and volunteers dramatically rehabbed the building. The church was excited to have a baptismal pool and perform its first baptisms. The first wedding was Pastor Bill and Patsy Curry in 1995.
The ministry grew rapidly. In 1996, Family Night started on the first Tuesday of each month. Family Night serves many families and continues today. In 1997, the first Block Party was organized to bless the community. The annual Block Party continues with many participants.
In 1998, a large lot next to the church was purchased. An amazing playground and picnic grove were built. God gave them a wonderful place to play and fellowship.
In 2002, the first official members were welcomed. In 2004, Bill Curry became the lead pastor at Cornerstone. The church grew quickly.
In 2006, the house next to the church at 2058 E. Allegheny Avenue was bought. The house is the center for adult Bible studies during the week. It also became the base for the food cupboard. About 100 families receive bags of food each week.
In 2007, the Lord provided a new building next to the Light House. It is called the Miracle House. This house had been a drug and prostitution haven. The city of Philadelphia sold the house for almost nothing. It is now a base for the addictions recovery ministry.
Over the years, lives have been transformed through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Hurt people have been restored. The enslaved have found freedom. Marriages and relationships have been restored. Broken families have been healed. Physical, emotional and spiritual needs have been met.
Cornerstone Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It shows the power of community and unwavering commitment to service. It is a place where hope is kindled, faith is nurtured, and love goes out into the world.