“Infallible” is how the Bible is described according to the beliefs of the First Church of God and Christ. This church stands as a beacon of faith. It’s a place where the community’s needs are met. It does this through the love of Jesus Christ.
The First Church of God and Christ has a rich history. It began with prayer meetings. These meetings were held in Frank and Polly Clemmons’ home. Their home was on Bergen Street in Brooklyn. This was in 1921. The meetings grew quickly. People found salvation through the Holy Spirit’s power.
Soon, the Clemmons’ home was too small. The group rented a storefront. It was at Rochester and Dean Streets in Crown Heights. They called themselves “Brooklyn #1.” The church became a mission center. It helped Black people who had moved from the South. The Clemmons family understood this. They had moved from North Carolina.
Frank Clemmons became a well-known preacher in New York City. He befriended Charles Mason. Mason was the Presiding Bishop and Founder of the Church of God in Christ. He was also a leader in the Azusa Street Revival. Frank Clemmons helped Mason reconnect with William J. Seymour. Seymour led the Azusa Street Revival. They had lost touch.
In 1939, Brooklyn #1 bought a bus garage. They turned it into a beautiful church. They renamed it First Church of God in Christ of Brooklyn, NY, Inc. The church grew. It served the community’s needs. This included clothing, food, and financial help.
The First Church of God and Christ played a role in the Civil Rights Movement. Leaders used the church as a hub. They informed the Black community. They recruited demonstrators. These efforts promoted civil rights and economic justice.
Elder Frank Clemmons became a Bishop in 1959. He called his son, Ithiel, to co-pastor. Ithiel brought a new vision. Ithiel Clemmons took over from his father. Then, Rev. Dr. Joseph Clemmons, Sr. followed. He continued the tradition of dynamic preaching. He also provided pastoral care.
In 2019, Joseph Clemmons, Jr. became the pastor. He is the son of Rev. Dr. Joseph Clemmons, Sr. The congregation voted him in. He continues the church’s mission. That mission is meeting the community’s needs. He does it with the love of Jesus Christ.
The First Church of God and Christ has always served the community. It promotes social justice. It carries on the spirit of its founders. Today, the church’s mission remains focused. It shows unconditional love to all. It did this when serving marginalized migrants in the early 20th century.
Rev. Dr. Joseph D. Clemmons, II, currently leads the church. He and his wife, Lady Mary Clemmons, are dedicated servants. They lead the Historic First Church. They ensure it remains a loving and inclusive church.
The church values diversity and welcomes all races. It embraces the Holy Spirit and emphasizes prayer. Compassion and social justice are at its core. It maintains humility rooted in love. Fellowship and enjoying one another are important. The vision is to have a diverse church that serves Crown Heights.
The First Church of God and Christ offers Sunday Morning Worship. It also has a Youth Church for ages 5-19. The church extends an invitation. Visit to experience the welcoming community. It demonstrates the enduring power of faith and service.