The cross and the switchblade

This book chronicles the spiritual journey of David Wilkerson, a young evangelical pastor, as he embarks on a mission to help members of troubled street gangs in New York City in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The narrative follows his growth from personal, one-on-one encounters to a thriving community outreach program, highlighting the power of Christian faith and the potential for change in even the most hardened hearts.

Wilkerson's story includes his founding of the Teen Challenge program and his encounters with gang members, such as Nicky Cruz, who later became an evangelist himself.