From River Thief to Rescue Mission Pioneer
Nearly 50 years after David Nasmith began the City Mission movement in Glasgow, Scotland, a former river thief named Jerry McAuley would help carry that same spirit of care into the streets of New York City. After spending time in prison and living a life marked by crime and addiction, McAuley experienced the transforming power of Jesus Christ. His own journey from brokenness to redemption gave him a unique compassion for others who were struggling to find their way.
In 1872, he and his wife, Maria, opened the Helping Hand for Men on Water Street, welcoming men with food, shelter, friendship, prayer, and the hope of the Gospel. McAuley believed that meeting a person’s physical needs could open the door to something deeper: the opportunity to experience the love and transforming power of Jesus. What began as one small mission would help inspire the growing Rescue Mission movement across America.
Jerry McAuley’s story is a powerful reminder that no life is too broken for God to redeem, and that a transformed life can become a vessel of hope for others. His story became part of a movement that continues to reach people in their greatest places of need.
Today, IFRM carries on that same belief. Continuing to meet people where they are with compassion and the hope found in Jesus Christ.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies
never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Images: Jerry McAuley (right)
316 Water St. Mission House, NYC (left)