“Saving a seat for you.” This is the inviting message of The Seventh-day Adventist Church of the Oranges. The church extends a warm welcome. It embraces everyone regardless of their faith journey.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church of the Oranges started as the Church of the Crossroads in 1978. Forty members from Essex County had a vision. They imagined a church welcoming to all. Everyone would have a seat. Personal history would not matter. Family background would not matter. Ethnicity or gender would not matter. These humble beginnings blossomed into The Seventh-day Adventist Church of the Oranges.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church of the Oranges centers around Jesus Christ. It offers a family built on hope. Hope for the future is key. Hope for better times is also a focus. Hope for progress is essential. Above all hope for Jesus is paramount. As a family they prioritize inclusion. Belonging remains at the heart of their faith.
Seventh-day Adventists are rooted in the Holy Scriptures. The promotion of a healthy lifestyle is central to their faith. Many members follow a meat-free or plant-based diet. They see their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. They believe God wants them to be healthy. Consuming harmful things is discouraged. Studies suggest Adventists live longer lives.
The Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist Church in Harlem was established in 1924. It became a beacon of hope in a struggling community. The church faced poverty and racism. It stood against discrimination. Community service has always been a core mission. In 1930 Ephesus moved to 123rd Street and Lenox Avenue. It changed its name from Harlem #2 Seventh-day Adventist Church. Ephesus means first among equals. It became a hub for the African American Adventist community.
During the civil rights era Ephesus fought racial injustices. Leaders worked to save Harlem Hospital. This activism continued into the 1980s. The church fought for fair housing. It also ensured adequate health care. The congregation advocates for fair rezoning laws today. These laws guarantee affordable housing.
During the crack epidemic church members volunteered at Hale House. They cared for drug-dependent babies. The church started a weekly feeding program. They distributed clothing to the homeless.
The Ephesus church has showcased great musical talents. Soloists and award-winning choirs have performed here. Dexterous musicians have graced the stage. Acclaimed groups and ensembles have appeared. The Boys Choir of Harlem started at Ephesus.
Ephesus values Christian Education. In 1948 it co-founded a primary school. It supports Northeastern Academy. Clubs and organizations support Christian education. These include the King’s Daughters. They also include the Carlyle Donovan Scholarship Fund. The church awards scholarships to members attending Adventist institutions.
In 1955 the Ephesus Youth Church was organized. It was the first of its kind. It trained young people to serve. The youth enjoyed an active AYM program. They also had Pathfinders and sports teams. They were champions in Bible Bowls. They won conference-wide championships.
In 1969 the Ephesus church building was gutted by fire. Only two stained glass windows could be saved. The top of the steeple was removed. Members called this the wilderness years. It took eight years to rebuild the church. In 1977 they marched back to their home. In 2006 the steeple was restored.
The Ephesus church is linked to St Andrews Episcopal Church. St Andrews allowed them to worship there from 1969 to 1977. Service to the community is part of the Ephesus mission. The church operated Harlem Trailblazers. It offered training to youths. The Resource Center provided computer training. It also offered GED classes.
The church participates in community events. These events include Night Out Against Crime. They also include the African American Day Parade. They sponsor an annual health fair. They offer classes in vegan cooking. They also offer classes in smoking cessation.
Ephesus has addressed mental health. It fosters discussions on mental health. They promote open dialogue.
The Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist church stands as a symbol of faith. It embodies perseverance and community. Its members have remained committed. They spread the gospel message.
The story of Ephesus reminds us of the power of faith. It shows what can be achieved together. The Ephesus Effect has influenced the Seventh-day Adventist denomination.
In 1930 the Second Harlem church took the name Ephesus. By the mid-1950s it was located in Harlem. It had become a symbol of Black Adventism.
In 1939 the owners wanted to sell the building. Other parties were interested. The congregation raised money to purchase it. The General Conference president supported the effort.
The Ephesus Effect influenced the regional conferences. Black church members could elect their own leaders.