Our History

The history of the Staten Island Seventh-day Adventist Church is a story of faith, perseverance, growth, and God’s continued leading. What started as a small gathering of believers in Mariners Harbor to now an established congregation serving Staten Island and its surrounding communities, our journey has been shaped by dedicated members, pastors, and ministry leaders who believed in God’s mission.

The roots of the Staten Island Seventh-day Adventist Church can be traced to 1927, when Brother James Golson and his wife, Fanny, arrived on Staten Island and joined recently baptized believers connected with the Prophetic Voice Seventh-day Adventist Mission. The group worshiped in the Mariners Harbor community near Port Ivory and the Procter & Gamble Soap Factory. The mission soon attracted people from different parts of the city who traveled to Staten Island each Sabbath for worship and fellowship. Among those who became actively involved were members of the Benefield family, Fred, Dora, Evelyn, Gladys, and Doris, who dedicated themselves to the work of ministry.

By the mid-1950s, the Prophetic Voice SDA Mission experienced significant growth and moved to larger accommodations at 258 Jersey Street. Under the leadership of Elder Farrell, the congregation continued to expand and became an increasingly influential presence in the community. As the congregation grew, so did its vision. Members desired a permanent place where they could worship and serve together. Through the generosity of the congregation and God’s providence, funds were raised to purchase land and make a down payment toward property at 72 Union Avenue. On May 24, 1963, the Prophetic Voice SDA Mission was formally organized as a Seventh-day Adventist Church by Northeastern Conference President S. D. Singleton, under the leadership of Elder Victor H. McEckron. Elders, deacons, and deaconesses were formally appointed to serve the newly organized congregation.

On January 15, 1968, the congregation moved into its present home at 80 Union Avenue and became known as the Staten Island Seventh-day Adventist Church. Pastor Ivan L. Warden, a young pastor fresh from theological seminary, became the church’s first pastor. During this period, the Staten Island congregation shared pastoral leadership with the Coney Island SDA Church in Brooklyn. Pastor Warden brought energy and creativity to the congregation, introducing programs and activities that included basketball and karate.

Our church building at 80 Union Avenue carries a history that extends beyond the Seventh-day Adventist congregation. The original building dates back to 1857 and was erected by prominent members of the community. It was formerly known as the Mariners Harbor Baptist Church. The church bell, donated by David Van Name, first rang on September 16, 1958, at his funeral. The building also has connections to stories of Staten Island’s broader history, including accounts associated with Buffalo Bill and the Underground Railroad. On November 11, 1924, Armistice Day, a fire was discovered in the building. Approximately $20,000 was raised to rebuild it, and the present structure reflects aspects of the original building. Today, 80 Union Avenue remains a place where generations have gathered to worship, learn, fellowship, and serve.

The church’s influence has extended beyond its own congregation. Following evangelistic meetings in 1996, the Heartbeat Fellowship Mission was established. The mission was later renamed Rose of Sharon and eventually became the New Brighton Community Seventh-day Adventist Church. Over the years, Staten Island SDA has continued to minister to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the community through evangelism, Bible studies, Community Services, food and clothing distribution, youth ministry, community health initiatives, and prison ministry.

The church underwent a major restoration project, culminating in a rededication celebration on October 21–22, 2011, under the leadership of Pastor Andrew Philbert. The celebration brought together former pastors, members, friends, and supporters to recognize God’s faithfulness and the congregation’s continuing journey.

The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the way the church worshiped and connected with its members and community. On October 16, 2021, the church officially returned to in-person worship while following appropriate safety procedures. During this period, the congregation also expanded its online presence through livestreaming, through the dedicated efforts of Pastor Dr. Clifford Manie. Dr. Abraham Jules, Northeastern Conference President, was present for the return to in-person worship. On January 15, 2022, Pastor Sean Anderson and his family began serving the congregation. His ministry was marked by a spirit of humility, prayer, compassion, and dedication to God’s people. Today, Dr. Silburn I. Reid serves as the pastor of the Staten Island Seventh-day Adventist Church, continuing the legacy of those who came before.

The story of Staten Island SDA is still being written. For over 60 years, God has used ordinary people who were willing to worship, serve, sacrifice, and share the gospel. From the early believers gathering in Mariners Harbor to today’s congregation at 80 Union Avenue, the mission remains the same: to proclaim the good news of salvation and make a difference in the lives of people throughout Mariners Harbor, Staten Island, and beyond.

Our history reminds us of where we have come from. Our faith reminds us of who has brought us this far. And our mission calls us forward.

As we look toward the future, we remain committed to ELEVATE — Let’s Go Up:
Come for the Worship.
Study His Word.
Be a Witness.

The best chapters of our story are still being written.