integrity of the church ’ s iconic twin towers , modeled after Ripon Cathedral in Yorkshire , as well as its ornamental details , whose faces and figures now can be appreciated from street level . This detailed work involved removing , cataloging , and repairing the church ’ s original stone blocks and buttresses . The stones were then refitted and reinforced with steel supports to ensure their integrity and safety for generations to come . Even the fresh brickpointing was completed by hand in the distinctive style used in late-19th-century Gothic Revival masonry .
This attention to detail mirrors the commitment to service Jaeger describes happening inside during BSM ’ s meal service . As she explains , neighbors who use services at BSM tend to experience scarcity in many overlapping ways : a lack of affordable housing , nutritious meals , and fresh clothing . However , the building also embodies something else in short supply for many : beauty . The anecdote to this , for BSM , has included poetry and music workshops , art installations in its stunning dining room , crafts tables , and collaborations with Mural Arts Philadelphia , where guests of Broad Street contribute to murals installed in Center City . This emphasis on aesthetics also extends to the building itself .
“ The people who attended church here in its heyday were some of the city ’ s toniest residents , and they were used to being treated that way ,” says Jaeger . “ It ’ s a wonderful feeling to have the building say to our guests today that they , too , are VIPs .”
Responsible stewardship of its historic building aligns naturally with BSM ’ s mission of hospitality . It also signals to guests , staff , volunteers , and neighbors alike that this architectural gemstone — and the critical resources inside — are here to stay .
Broad Street Ministry retains an impressive façade on South Broad Street in Philadelphia , above . Servers offer “ radical hospitality ” to Broad Street Ministry ’ s guests , with table service and restaurantlike touches , right . Drew Harris
8 SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2023