David Montenegro
“After graduating from college, I moved to New York City to begin my career and adult life. Most of my friends ended up settling in other parts of the country, and my industry leaves me with little time to form new relationships. I knew this transition would be a challenge, and for a while, I felt concerned about the loneliness I might face. Sundays are primarily my time to worship our Lord, but my emphasis also quickly turned to finding fellowship. Through Twaambo Moyo and Central’s Young Professionals Ministry, I found a community of recent graduates who come from all walks of life and are walking through a similar season as me: new transplants who have a shared love for Christ and are figuring out adulthood. I felt at home, and it shaped me in many ways. My faith has deepened simply by being surrounded by believers who genuinely love God and want to grow. We encourage, challenge, and help one another. It’s been a joy inviting my friends — some visiting Christians, some who don’t yet believe but are curious or unsure about the faith — into a space where they can ask questions and meet people of a similar age. Central and its ministries serve as the ‘third place’ that many in my generation are longing for. With nothing substantial outside of home and work, they can often feel isolated and disconnected. But Central is a place where I can reflect, grow spiritually, and be known. I’m not sure how I would have navigated my transition without this community. A year and a half later, I remain grounded in my faith and reminded that we are in this together.” - David Montenegro
In 2 Corinthians 8, as Paul speaks on generosity, he interestingly never uses the word "money"; instead, he speaks of "grace." He calls the Corinthians — and by extension, us — to excel in this act of grace. As 2025 comes to a close, consider how you might contribute to stories of grace at Central.
Gifts can be made at centralchurchnyc.org/give.