“Reclaiming Families For Christ!” That’s the powerful message of the Christian Pentecostal Church John 3:16. This church offers refuge and strength through faith. It prepares people to spread the word of God.
The story of John 3:16 Christian Church is deeply intertwined with the history of New York City. It shows resilience and community spirit. Founded in 1961, the church began as a humble mission. It was located in Manhattan between 44th and 45th streets.
Brother Montalvo and Brother Dominguez were key figures in the church’s founding. Montalvo belonged to the Pentecostal Church. Dominguez was a member of the Christian Church John 3:16. Reverend Ricardo Tañón pastored Dominguez’s church.
In 1962, Ricardo Tañón sent Brother Arcadio Bernard as pastor. Bernard helped the church become a mission of the Christian Church John 3:16. Later, in 1968, Reverend Juan Manzano affiliated the church with the Eastern Hispanic District. This district belonged to the Assemblies of God. Manzano pastored the church for four years. He gave the church a new vision. The vision was to obtain its own temple.
Reverend Miguel Gonzalez became the pastor in 1972. During his short time, he took a giant step. He incorporated the church into the state. He legally registered it with a certificate and seal. In 1973, Reverend Juan R. Cabrera and his wife Blanca Iris Cabrera were elected as pastors. Under their leadership, the church bought its own building. The building was at 534 W. 29th St. in Manhattan in 1975. The church stayed there until 2013.
From 2013 to 2016, the church temporarily moved. It was located at the Sea of Galilee Church. In June 2016, the church held its first service. It was in a new building at 85 Forbell St. in Brooklyn. In 2018, Reverend Omar Valcárcel became the general pastor. He had joined John 3:16 in 2013. He served as an associate pastor under Reverend Juan Cabrera. Together with his wife, Luz Valcárcel, he guides the church.
Another Iglesia Cristiana Juan 3:16 has a remarkable history. In the Longwood area, the church’s founder Reverend Ricardo Tañón left a lasting impact. A street was co-named “Rev. Ricardo Tañón Avenue” in his honor. Tañón founded Iglesia Cristiana Juan 3:16 in 1935. The church was at 864 Westchester Avenue. He wanted to build lives and preach the love of God. Tañón served as pastor from 1943 to 1976. He grew the congregation from a dozen members to thousands. He provided food, clothing, shelter, and spiritual guidance to those in need.
Today, the John 3:16 Christian Church continues to serve. It offers various ministries. These include youth, men’s, women’s, and missionary programs. Vacation Bible school and community outreach are also important. The church reclaims families for Christ. It builds on a legacy of faith. The church fosters love, respect, and strong Biblical foundations. It provides a refuge for souls in Jesus Christ.