CCDA Principle: Relocation

This is our first post from an 8-part series on the principles of CCDA (Christian Community Development Association), and how they apply to our ministry context in Boston.

 

By Liz Cressy 

In the Bible, John writes “The Word (Jesus) became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood” (John 1:14, The Message). Jesus’ example inspires us. Relocation is about being present. It is neither paternalistic nor about moving people, rather it is an “unconditional commitment to a particular neighborhood.” Pastor Wayne Gordon* writes, “relocation entails desiring for our neighbors…what we desire for ourselves.” Jesus came from heaven to … Read the rest...

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We Need Each Other

“I love walking around the neighborhood and seeing how it has changed. How much it’s improved. I always know Boston Project is having an impact,” shares Kevin Baird, a pastor at Hamilton Congregational Church. Kevin first visited The Boston Project ten years ago. “I remember sitting around this big long table with Paul and Keith, back in the day, and just catching the vision!”

 

Ten years later, we are still dreaming together over a cup of coffee. However, the people around the table have changed. Now Liz and Ben Cressy are talking with Kevin. Liz first met Kevin when she … Read the rest...

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Swing Me!

“Keith. Keith! KEITH!!! Can you swing me?!” The sounds of my summer were full of little voices calling for pushes on swings, band-aids on boo-boo’s, help with crafts, bathroom breaks, and a hundred other requests. In an unexpected turn, due to staffing needs of the ministry, I directed the Elmhurst Park Children’s Program this summer – a first in my time at The Boston Project – and I loved it!

 

For six weeks, The Boston Project operates a free, drop-in program for kids ages 5 to 12, full of activities, games, crafts, Bible lessons, and more. On a typical … Read the rest...

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