A broken-down mansion is becoming a home for broken souls.

A mansion in Southington Township, Ohio that was the former home of heavyweight champion boxer Mike Tyson was donated several years ago to Living Word Sanctuary Church. Since then, church members have been cleaning up the property, bit by bit, in a bid to reclaim it for the Lord's work, and hope to have it ready by the end of 2018.

Pastor Nicholas DeJacimo spoke to the local Warren Tribune-Chronicle about the fortuitous blessing. "The property had been untouched for ten years. You had so much grass, you could've sold it for hay."

Local records say that Tyson owned the property between 1989 and 1999, and it was a refuge for him in 1995 after having served prison time. Added DeJacimo, "We heard there were some crazy parties here."

At 25,000 square feet, the property is a huge step up from the YMCA where the church currently holds services. The indoor pool area will become the sanctuary, a four-car garage will become areas for youth ministry and childcare, and the second floor will house the church offices and conferences rooms.

The Living Word pastor is convinced the windfall is a work of divine providence. "I tell everyone," DeJacimo, said. "'This was meant for us.'"

Potential Preaching Angles: God never wastes an experience, even celebrity hardship can be redeemed. God repurposes wealth for his kingdom.