The Block Church and its preschool are officially open.
The church last year bought the property at 9768 Verree Road, the former home of Congregations of Shaare Shamayim synagogue, which moved to Elkins Park.
After a lot of renovations – with more to come – the church had a night of prayer on Jan. 31 to dedicate the space. On Feb. 2, about 900 people attended a pair of services in the auditorium. Feb. 3 marked the grand opening of The Block Academy, with a ribbon cutting, confetti and the song Celebration.
Shaare Shamayim operated a preschool for more than 40 years, with a number of longtime employees. Now, the Block Church operates the preschool, having retained that veteran staff.
“You guys really love and care for our students so well,” said Pastor Joey Furjanic, the lead pastor, during the grand-opening celebration.
There are 75 students in the preschool, which enrolls kids from 18 months to kindergarten. Early care and after care are available.
The students were invited to walk on a red carpet entering the building on grand-opening day.
The former private Jewish preschool is now a private Christian preschool, but kids of all faiths are welcome. Director Rebecca Tyer and assistant director Jill Borine are joined by 15 teachers.
“It’s a highly academic preschool,” Tyer said.
The Block Academy says it’s, “Growing Royal Kids for a Limitless Future.”
“With God’s help, these guys can change the world,” Furjanic said of the youngsters.
The Block Academy will operate a summer camp weekdays from June 23 to Aug. 20, offering fun and creative activities for kids 18 months to 6.
The preschool will see upgrades in technology, the indoor play space and two outdoor playgrounds. To enroll in the preschool and/or summer camp or for more information, call 215-673-2323 or MyBlockAcademy.org.
As for the Block Church, the motto is, “Revive Every Block.” Sunday services at the Verree Road site are at 9:15 and 11:15 a.m., with an age-appropriate service in a classroom for kids up to 11. The church previously worshipped at Sprinkler Fitters 692 in the Far Northeast.
There are three other locations: 1336 Spring Garden St. (the old FOP Lodge 5), 2537 E. Monmouth St. in Port Richmond and 7372 Henry Ave. in Roxborough.
The Verree Road site has several upcoming events: Baptism Sunday on Feb. 16 at 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.; Sit With Me Sunday on March 2 at 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.; and Worship Night on March 14 at 7 p.m.
The Block Church is 10 years old and has worshipped in 39 different locations over the last decade. No more need for moving trucks.
“We’re finally home. We’re here to stay,” Furjanic said. “We’re going to be in Philadelphia forever.” ••
