Christian Cultural Center

Christian Cultural Center is a large non-denominational church located in the Starrett City section of Brooklyn, New York City. Founded in 1978 by Pastor A. R. Bernard, it has grown to become one of the most prominent and influential congregations in the New York metropolitan area. The church is known for its expansive campus, diverse ministries, and significant community outreach initiatives, serving thousands of members and impacting the broader cultural landscape.

History

The church was established in 1978 by A. R. Bernard, who began holding services in a small storefront in the East New York neighborhood. Under his leadership, the congregation experienced rapid growth, necessitating multiple relocations to larger facilities throughout the 1980s and 1990s. A significant milestone was reached with the acquisition and development of its current permanent campus in the Starrett City complex in the early 2000s, marking its evolution from a local church into a major regional institution. This growth paralleled the expansion of other large non-denominational congregations across the United States, such as Willow Creek Community Church and The Potter's House.

Leadership and organization

The church has been led since its inception by founder and Senior Pastor A. R. Bernard, a prominent figure in American evangelicalism who has served in leadership roles with organizations like the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention and the Council on Foreign Relations. The organizational structure includes a board of directors and a team of executive pastors and ministry leaders who oversee various departments. Pastor Bernard's teachings, which often integrate theological principles with insights from business management and psychology, have shaped the church's distinctive administrative and discipleship model, influencing other church plants and leaders within the Charismatic movement in New York City.

Facilities and campus

The main campus is situated on a sprawling property within the Starrett City housing development, featuring a state-of-the-art worship sanctuary that seats several thousand people. The complex includes the Cultural Center Performing Arts Theatre, educational wings for the Christian Cultural Center School of Ministry, administrative offices, and banquet facilities. The architecture and design of the campus facilitate a wide range of activities, from large-scale worship services and conferences to intimate community gatherings, making it a hub for religious and civic events in Brooklyn.

Ministries and programs

A diverse array of ministries caters to different demographics, including dedicated groups for men, women, youth, and married couples, alongside a robust Christian education program through its School of Ministry. The church operates a comprehensive social services arm that provides food distribution, job training, and financial literacy workshops, addressing needs in the broader New York City community. Specialized outreach includes programs for artists and professionals, reflecting the church's location in a major cultural and economic center, and its media department produces content broadcast locally and internationally.

Influence and outreach

The church exerts considerable influence through the public platform of A. R. Bernard, who is frequently consulted by media outlets and has participated in events at institutions like the United Nations and the White House. Its model of integrating faith, community development, and cultural engagement has been studied by other congregations and organizations such as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Through partnerships with groups like the New York City Police Department and various non-profit organizations, its outreach extends to city-wide initiatives, disaster relief, and international missions, solidifying its role as a significant institution within American Christianity. Category:Churches in Brooklyn Category:Non-denominational churches in the United States Category:Religious organizations established in 1978