Far Roackaway Church of Christ

In 1976 a need was identified. A church was needed in the Far Rockaway Queens community. This is the story of the Far Rockaway Church of Christ. It began humbly. Brother Walter Maxwell minister of the Roosevelt Freeport Church of Christ saw the need. In 1977 he sent Brother Steven Ludy and Brother Cornelius Heyward to start a church. A few families joined them. The early years saw Brother Ludy as minister. Brother Heyward served as assistant minister. After about ten years Brother Ludy left for Detroit. Brother Moses Johnson a retired minister filled the role for a while. Then in 1990 Brother Heyward was ordained minister of the Far Rockaway Church of Christ. The congregation grew substantially. From a small group it grew to over 200 members. Sunday attendance averaged over 125. The church purchased two properties totaling 2850 square feet. A new building was constructed. This accommodated the growing congregation. It also allowed for more ministries. The Far Rockaway Church of Christ outgrew its old facility. Under Brother Heyward’s leadership several ministries were created. These served the local community. There was a food pantry. The Annual Cornelius Heyward Scholarship Fund was established. There were also programs for youth. Assistance was given to the elderly and disabled. Clothing was provided to those in need. Missionary work was also supported in South Africa. Brother Heyward himself had an impressive background. He graduated from Queens College with a degree in Social Service. He served in the Vietnam War. He was baptized in 1976. He continued his biblical studies at Sunset Extension School. Brother Heyward’s leadership and preaching resulted in substantial growth. In 2003 he retired from the New York Metropolitan Transit Authority. He dedicated himself to the new church building. He is a renowned and prolific minister. He is known for his preaching and oratorical skills. He receives many honors. His wife Vanessa Denise Heyward is also instrumental in the church. She teaches bible classes. She serves as secretary. She offers advice to young ladies. She has a long career as a legal secretary. Now retired she is the church secretary. She plans to launch her own interior decorating firm. The Far Rockaway Church of Christ is a testament to perseverance. It is a beacon of faith and community service. Its story is one of triumph over challenges. It’s a church that continues to grow and serve. It’s a place of worship and community outreach. It’s a small but mighty church. Visit the Far Rockaway Church of Christ. Experience its warmth and spirit.