“A house of prayer for all nations” is more than just a motto. Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church lives it. This church in Brooklyn extends a warm welcome to everyone. It stands as a testament to faith.
Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church’s story begins with Syrian immigrants. At the turn of the century they sought a place to worship. They longed for familiar Arabic hymns. They wanted liturgy in their native tongue. These early gatherings took place in homes. Storefronts and rented auditoriums also served as spaces.
In 1907 the Syrian Protestant Church was officially incorporated. A significant milestone arrived in 1920. The church found a home on Clinton and Pacific Streets. Reverend Dr. Khalil Beshara began his service. His relationship with the church lasted nearly 25 years.
During World War II a shift occurred. The congregation decided to transition services fully into English. Reverend Dr. Edward Jurji championed this new spirit. He was a pastor. He also was a professor of comparative religion at Princeton. Under his leadership the church joined the Presbyterian denomination. It moved to Bay Ridge. The sanctuary was completed in 1957. Members built the church with their own hands.
Over the years Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church has seen many changes. Gifted pastors have guided the congregation including the Rev. David Dyson. The Rev. Ed Soares, the Rev. Richard Preston, and the Rev. Anne Akers have also served. The current pastor is the Rev. David Aja-Sigmon.
Nature tested the church in 2007. Brooklyn’s first recorded tornado struck on August 8th. Stained glass windows suffered damage. Walls, pews, trees, ironwork, and bricks all sustained harm. Fortunately no one was hurt. The community rallied around the church.
In 2013 Bay Ridge United Church approached Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church. They proposed a plan for integration. In January 2016 Bay Ridge United transferred most of their members to Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church.
Today Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church is a diverse community. People from around the world unite here. They come from Lebanon. They come from India. Scotland, Trinidad, Colombia, and Syria are also represented. You will find people from Hong Kong, Pennsylvania, Palestine and Egypt. Cuba, Norway, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, North Carolina, and Brooklyn are all home to members. The congregation’s ages range from weeks old to 100 years.
Located above the subway the church is an urban faith center. It is a place where people come together. All are welcome to worship and participate in communal events. You can join Bible studies. You can also receive pastoral care. Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church aspires to be a spiritual home. It also strives to be a community center. The church actively seeks new ways to reach out to the city.
The story of Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church is one of faith and community. Its doors remain open.