num_pages: 302
description: "Bronx Street Drama" is the compelling story of Lee Newman, a young Protestant pastor raised in the South and called to New York City in 1970 to lead a congregation in the Bronx. Lee and his family begin their new life in the city with determination and optimism, but they soon find out that life in the Bronx is much different than that to which they are accustomed. Daily struggles in the Bronx include members of the congregation being beaten and mugged, the Boy Scouts being attacked by Vietnam protesters for carrying the American flag in a parade, dysfunctional families fighting, an alcoholic sexton who is replaced by a sexton with a rap sheet, and fleas in the sanctuary. As if street gangs and crime weren't enough to deal with, Lee soon finds that his toughest enemy just might be the parishioners. Far from being a welcoming congregation, the church is run by a group of trustees who control every aspect of the church. Would-be members are turned away because the trustees don't approve them. When Lee is not on their side, the trustees set their sights on ousting him as well. Despite these challenges, Lee manages to find a way to start new programs and recruit more members into the congregation, all while staying within the church's constitution. The church's people support him, and his programs flourish. All throughout the story, Lee comes into contact with many interesting characters that are involved with the church. A confused and bewildered young woman who has amnesia and is trying to reclaim her identity, a police detective who recovers fingerprints, an Italian immigrant who is a professional musician, an artist, and a Jewish Boy Scout leader are just a few of the characters that find their way into the church's loving community. Kennedy's story shows readers that growing up in ghetto conditions may be challenging, but good things can come out of facing these kinds of trials, and it is vitally important to build a community of support amidst all that threatens to destroy. As readers feel for the characters in the story, they will be challenged to open their hearts and be welcoming to others as well.
language: English
title: Bronx Street Drama
titlecomplete: Bronx Street Drama
ratings_count: 2
publisher: Ivy House Pub Group