Community Outreach in Brooklyn: Faith in Action
The ministry of Brooklyn Church of God (Holiness) started with a house call. In 1985, before there was a building or even a regular meeting room, Rev. Enock Lors, his wife Andreline, their children, and a few friends went to visit a sick man who was paralyzed. Serving people where they live has been part of the church ever since.
Our faith calls us to serve our neighbors with compassion and practical care. The outreach work described here reflects that commitment to the people of Brooklyn, and much of it happens outside the walls of 2315 Tilden Avenue.
Free Saturday Breakfast
From March through November, the church opens its doors every Saturday morning for a free community breakfast. Serving runs from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. It is offered to the community at no charge, so neighbors who have never attended a service are as welcome at the table as longtime members.
Taking the Gospel to the Street
Street Evangelism sends members out into the neighborhood to share the message of Jesus Christ with people who may never walk into a church. The congregation describes itself as a church of discipleship that works to win souls for Christ, and this ministry is where that work meets the sidewalk.
House-to-House Visitation and Prayer
Some needs are best met at someone's own door. Through house-to-house visitation, members pray with neighbors in their homes. The practice echoes that first visit in 1985 and keeps the church's attention on people rather than programs.
One-on-One Bible Study
For anyone who wants to read Scripture with a guide, the church holds One-on-One Bible Study two days each week. A personal setting gives room for questions that may not come up in a larger group. Those who prefer studying alongside others can join the Friday evening group listed among our weekly worship services and Bible study times.
Friends Day and Special Gatherings
Friends Day has been part of church life since 1991, and it remains on the calendar today as one of the congregation's continuing ministries.
Members have also taken part in larger evangelistic events. In 2016, the Deborah Women's Ministry took part in the Great Evangelical Crusade, preserved today in the church's photo archive.
Reaching Beyond Brooklyn
Care for neighbors does not stop at the city line. Every year during the third week of September, the congregation takes up a collection for children in Haiti through the Haiti Project Helping Hand, which provides educational assistance, prayer, and compassionate service. For a church whose founder preached in the mountains of Haiti for more than twenty years, that connection runs deep.
Members serve through these ministries alongside Senior Pastor Rev. Jean-Pierre Lors and a dedicated team. Everyone is welcome to work for the Lord, whether that means helping on a Saturday morning, joining a visitation, or praying for the people being reached. To learn where you can help, call the church at (929) 400-0067 or stop by before a Sunday service. You can read more about the congregation on the Brooklyn Church of God (Holiness) home page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Saturday breakfast really free?
Yes. The community breakfast is free and runs every Saturday from March through November, between 8:30 and 9:30 AM, at 2315 Tilden Avenue.
Do I need to be a member to come to the breakfast?
No. The breakfast is offered to the community, not only to the congregation. You do not need to attend a service to share the meal.
How often is One-on-One Bible Study offered?
One-on-One Bible Study takes place two days each week. A group Bible Study also meets every Friday at 7:30 PM.
How long has the church held Friends Day?
Friends Day has been held since 1991. It is listed among the church's continuing ministries alongside street evangelism and house-to-house visitation.
Does the church's outreach extend outside New York?
Yes. Through the Haiti Project Helping Hand, the church supports children in Haiti with educational assistance. The annual collection is held during the third week of September.
How can I volunteer with outreach?
Call the church at (929) 400-0067 to ask which outreach ministry fits your schedule, whether that is the Saturday breakfast, street evangelism, or house-to-house visitation.