A weathered cornerstone whispers 1927. That’s when the current building of Hollis Presbyterian Church rose. Before this majestic structure stood a small chapel. It served as a humble beginning for this vibrant congregation.
Hollis Presbyterian Church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith and community. Founded in 1922 by Dr Frederick Todd Steele the church holds a special place in Hollis Queens. Dr Steele secured permission from the Presbytery of Brooklyn-Nassau. He envisioned a Sabbath school in the area. His vision materialized on January 15 1922. Five adults and two children attended that first service. It was held in a borrowed chapel near Jamaica Avenue.
The church quickly outgrew its temporary home. The current building reflects this growth. It’s a symbol of the community’s expanding faith. The original Estey organ from 1927 held a prominent place within its walls. Its sound filled the sanctuary for decades. The organ’s voicing instructions are fascinating. They urged the voicing of the swell organ to be loud. This was due to the crowded placement of the pipes. The instructions reveal the meticulous care taken in its creation.
In 1959 a Midmer-Losh company rebuilt the Estey organ. They added a new Reisner console. This revitalized instrument continued to serve the church. However around 1996 the pipe organ was replaced. An Allen electronic organ took its place. Its specifications remain elusive a piece of the church’s history yet to be fully unearthed. The original Estey organ was sold for parts. A sad ending for a beautiful instrument. A piece of the Hollis Presbyterian Church’s legacy is lost to time. But its legacy remains.
Today Hollis Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon. It continues to serve the community that Dr Steele envisioned nearly a century ago. The church’s story is one of growth adaptation and enduring faith. It’s a story etched not just in stone but in the hearts of its members. A testament to the power of community and belief. Take a moment to reflect on the history contained within these walls. They’ve witnessed joy sorrow growth and unwavering faith. This is more than just a church it’s a living testament to the spirit of Hollis.