Imagine voices rising in song. Here at the Pentecostal Assembly Church, faith finds vibrant expression. It is a beacon in the community. The Pentecostal Assembly Church stands as a testament to the enduring power of belief.
New York Gospel Assembly held its first service in Manhattan on May 24, 1970. It started in a building on 20 15th street. It moved to 101 Richmond Hill later. This Malayalee Pentecostal church in America provided spiritual atmosphere for the youth. Sis Grace P. Oommen and Bros Sunny Phillip and Benjamin Baby helped with the CA and Sunday School program. The Pentecostal Youth Fellowship of America was initiated by NYGA in 1980.
The church sought to purchase a new sanctuary in 1995. God helped them find a place less than 10 blocks away. They worship Jesus Christ at 133 17 101 Ave Richmond Hill now. Over 30 years of blessings have come together here. Praise and worship fill this sanctuary.
India Christian Assembly began in the 1960s. Devoted individuals gathered in a Manhattan apartment. They wanted to worship God. They wanted to create an organized gathering for Malayalee Pentecostals. This gathering marked the birth of the first organized Malayalee Church in North America. They named it India Christian Assembly. Rev Achoy O. Mathews led the church. ICA held its first convention in 1968. Rev K. E. Abraham and Rev George Varghese were guest speakers from India.
ICA experienced growth in the 1970s. Rev Oommen Abraham, Bro John C. Daniel, and Rev M.S. Samuel led. The church relocated several times. Services were held in rented halls in Brooklyn and Manhattan. ICA incorporated in 1974. Rev K.E. Kurian led ICA to worship at the United Nations International School until 1981. The Sunday School and Bible Class Ministries were established then.
God provided a place of their own for worship. The church purchased a facility in Hollis, New York. Services were held in the newly acquired location on June 7, 1981. Pastor P.M. Philip dedicated the sanctuary. The church adopted a new Constitution and By-Laws. The Youth ministry and Women’s Fellowship were established. In 1981, they started their Radio Ministry, ‘Jeeva Vachanam’. They pioneered the first Malayalam Television ministry on Channel 44. Rev John Daniel led the church into a spiritual revival.
ICA continued to grow in the 1990s. They started a separate Youth Church. Rev Thomas V. Koshy supported mission and charitable giving. The church supported needy students and built homes. Entering the new millennium, younger members expanded ministry platforms. Rev P.B. Thomas and Rev Anthony V. Rocky led the assembly.
In 2009, Rev Samuel John led the congregation. A second service in English was introduced. The church emphasized missions and charitable projects. In 2015, ICA purchased a new facility in Levittown, Long Island. They dedicated the renovated facility on May 7, 2016. Rev. Dr. Wilson Varkey led the church.
Under Pastor Sabu Varghese and Associate Pastor Jose Memana, India Christian Assembly is poised for an exciting chapter. They inspire the community to embrace God’s calling. ICA remains committed to worship, fellowship, discipleship, and outreach. They strive to create an environment where people can experience God’s love. They want to equip young leaders.
Christian Assembly of the Bronx changed its name from Italian Christian Church. This reflected Pastor Steve’s vision. His vision was of Isaiah 56:7. It says, “For My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Pastor Steve was promoted to Heaven on April 27, 2012.
Here at the Pentecostal Assembly Church, you find not just a building. You find a community. You find a history of faith. The church’s story continues to unfold.