Greater Allen Cathedral

In the heart of Queens, the Greater Allen Cathedral stands as a testament to faith and community. The Greater Allen Cathedral isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to the power of vision and dedication. The Greater Allen Cathedral’s story began humbly in 1834 with a small group of worshippers. They moved from house to house, their faith the only constant. By the 1840s, this small group had built a modest 18×30-foot structure. This first structure, built in 1842, marked the official birth of the Greater Allen Cathedral. The church, then simply known as Allen, quickly became a spiritual anchor in Jamaica, Queens. The church expanded in 1869, reflecting the growing congregation. Through the Civil War and beyond, Greater Allen Cathedral remained a steadfast beacon of hope. The turn of the century brought a wave of new members, primarily from the Carolinas. Under the leadership of Rev. Joseph Stiles, the Greater Allen Cathedral flourished. New auxiliaries were formed, and music filled the sanctuary with the addition of a hand pump organ. The early 1900s were a mixed bag of blessings and hardships for the Greater Allen Cathedral. The church faced serious financial troubles, but the unwavering faith of its members kept its doors open. The Great Depression and pre-World War II era saw a renewed focus on youth ministry. The Children’s Youth Choir was founded in 1933, marking a new chapter in the Greater Allen Cathedral’s history. Tragedy struck in 1944 when a fire destroyed the sanctuary. However, the congregation’s spirit remained unbroken. They rebuilt under Rev. William McKinley Dawkins, emerging stronger than before. The Greater Allen Cathedral continued its growth in the 1950s. Rev. Emmer Henri Booker led the purchase of land at Merrick Boulevard and Sayres Avenue. Construction of a new edifice began in 1964 under Rev. Donald G. Ming, finally completed in 1968. This new beginning was short-lived. A firebombing caused significant damage just a year later. Yet again, the resilient Allen family restored their beloved church. In 1974, recognizing the needs of the elderly, Rev. Ming founded the Allen Community Senior Citizens Center. This marked Greater Allen Cathedral’s continued commitment to serving the community. The year 1976 brought another pivotal moment. Rev. Floyd Harold Flake became the 35th pastor of Greater Allen Cathedral. Alongside his wife, Rev. Margarett Elaine McCollins Flake, they led the church to new heights. The Greater Allen Cathedral expanded its reach. It developed affordable housing, offered social services, and created educational opportunities. In 1997, the magnificent 93,000-square-foot sanctuary that stands before you today was dedicated. This marked a significant milestone in the Greater Allen Cathedral’s journey. The Greater Allen Cathedral, under the leadership of the Flakes, became one of the largest AME churches in the United States. The Flakes retired in 2021 and 2024 respectively, leaving behind an incredible legacy of service and community development. Their leadership paved the way for a new era at Greater Allen Cathedral. Today, the Greater Allen Cathedral continues its mission under Rev. Stephen A. Green. It serves as a vibrant hub of faith, community, and social justice, a true testament to the enduring spirit of the Allen family.