Reformed Church of Staten Island | Staten Island

Here is a detailed description of the Reformed Church of Staten Island, one of the island’s oldest and most historically significant religious institutions:

History

Founding: The Reformed Church of Staten Island was established in 1660, making it one of the oldest congregations in New York City. The church was originally founded to serve the Dutch settlers in the area, reflecting the Dutch Reformed tradition.

Early Buildings:

The first church building, constructed in 1714, was a hexagonal wooden structure. It was destroyed during the American Revolutionary War by British troops.

A second church was built in 1717, but it too was destroyed in the war.

In 1787, a third church was constructed to replace the previous buildings.

Current Building:

The current church building dates from 1844 and is the fourth iteration of the church’s physical presence on the site. It was designed in the Greek Revival architectural style, which was popular in the United States during the mid-19th century.

The building is recognized for its architectural significance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

Architecture

Style: The church is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture, characterized by its use of classical elements such as Doric columns, a symmetrical facade, and a prominent portico.

Materials: The foundation is built from brick, and the building features twin brick pilasters flanking the portico.

Interior:

The interior contains stained glass windows made with opalescent glass, reflecting early Tiffany design influences. These windows are considered valuable examples of 19th-century ecclesiastical art.

The church houses an Austin Organ, a historically significant pipe organ known for its rich sound quality, which enhances worship services.

Grounds and Cemetery

The church grounds include one of Staten Island’s oldest non-private cemeteries, with gravestones dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

The cemetery is the resting place for notable Staten Island residents, including veterans of the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

It serves as both a historical landmark and a place of remembrance for the local community.

Worship and Community Role

Services: The church holds regular Sunday worship services at 11:00 AM, including traditional liturgy rooted in the Reformed faith.

Special Events: Throughout the year, the church hosts various religious and community events such as:

Baptisms and Communion services

Seasonal celebrations like Easter and Christmas

Observances like Reformation Day

Services honoring military and law enforcement personnel

Community Engagement:

The church is active in community outreach, hosting events like the Staten Island Summer of Shorts Film Festival, which supports local filmmakers.

It also offers guided tours of the historic cemetery and hosts lectures on local history and heritage.

Online Presence: To reach a broader audience, the church streams services and events via its official YouTube channel, allowing remote participation.

Location and Visitor Information

Address: 54 Port Richmond Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302

Contact: Phone: (718) 442-7393

Website: reformedchurchsi.org

Visiting: Visitors can tour the historic church and cemetery by appointment or during special open days.

Parking: Available nearby on Port Richmond Avenue and Church Street.

Significance

The Reformed Church of Staten Island is a historic and cultural landmark that reflects the island’s colonial past, architectural heritage, and longstanding religious traditions. It stands as a symbol of community resilience, faith, and continuity through centuries of change.