Letter from the Director
Now that the Neighborhood Center has established an internet presence, I marvel when I consider that we have had a physical presence in the city of Camden for over a century. The Center has survived name changes, program withdrawals and additions, financial strains, ongoing building renovations, and the steady exodus of the families and industries around us. Only one word explains our survival: God.
Running the Center is not unlike walking a tightrope; and I am constantly challenged to keep my eyes on the Lord and not on the nearness of catastrophe. Our staff gathers daily for morning devotions and the Center's needs are often addressed and prayerfully placed in our Father's capable hands. He has continually proven Himself to be attentive to our needs.
At the core of our ministry is an effort to make the gospel accessible to all who come to us. Those served by our government-funded programs are aware that they can find assistance here, even though we are not permitted to present the gospel openly. However, for those served in programs that are donor funded, our highest priority is sharing the gospel with generosity and compassion.
As 1 Corinthians 1:16-18 states, "Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel - not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power." Our desire is to continue to present the gospel through word and deed, in all its unembellished and radical simplicity, to all who cross our threshold.
