In obedience to a specific call, and after much prayer and seeking, FREEDOM HALL CHURCH OF GOD was established in April, 1980 under the pastorate of the Reverend Cecil G. Riley, with a membership of 5 adults and 4 children.
At its beginning, premises were rented at 438 Rogers Avenue. The capacity of this accommodation was approximately 100, but very soon it started seating almost double and in some services there were large numbers standing—packed in together. The physical growth was bordering on phenomenal. The members knew very soon they would have to seek new accommodations.
However, before arrangements could have been made to purchase a Church building, notice to vacate was given, and the next temporary home was 208 Rogers Avenue. The accommodations were somewhat more amiable, and services continued as usual. This move made it imperative in the minds of the congregation to work insidiously to acquire their own building. Ardent efforts commenced toward this goal.
In the meantime, however, the most important business of the Church was not neglected. New believers were added and baptized, and started following the Lord. Others were continually edified and uplifted by the Word which is a part of the Church’s motto to “PREACH THE WORD”. A turnover of membership continued—but most of all, young Christians were born and the work of God continued to move in the right direction.
Services were always vibrant and blessed by the presence of the Spirit of God. Many visitors expressed the thought that the name “Freedom Hall” was divinely inspired. They said worship at Freedom Hall always brought great blessing and indeed that spirit of freedom to worship the Lord. The spirit of worship and praise is taught alongside the other principles of holy living.
With this spiritual growth, Freedom Hall also experienced continual physical growth. The need for owning a building became more urgent! Everyone became mobilized in assisting with the search. Pastor Riley became interested in a large building with a wide land space, and the Church, which has always trusted his vision, was a little hesitant to believe they could acquire those premises. The pastor saw it as possible and went forward with negotiations—with the blessing of all but with the apprehension of some.
The details of acquisition of the present establishment are indeed ranging from exhilaration to frustrating, but God saw it through. There were times of disappointment, broken promises, and even discouragement with lack of cooperation of some. This building which was seen by some to be unreachable was finally the property of Freedom Hall in December, 1985. The former owners are the Archdiocese of Brooklyn and with the help of God working through a very knowledgeable realtor, Mr. Thomas Hayes, the owners even carried the mortgage on the premises—something which is extremely unusual in Brooklyn, and in fact, in any Catholic Archdiocese. All this happened after 2 years of negotiations. But praise the Lord, on July 25, 1986, the first service was held at 629 Albany Avenue. The membership was exuberant with praises. They remarked that there were times at 438 and 208 Rogers Avenue when the praises of God had to be quelled, giving consideration to others in the building, there were times when the Spirit was not yet through but they had to close the doors and go home, but now they were able to lift up their voices in holy praises, in giving thanks to God.
On November 4, 1990, Bishop Wilfred A. Shaw, one of the great forces in Pastor Riley’s life, was led under the Divine direction from God to lay hands on the then Pastor Riley and ordained him Bishop of the Freedom Hall Churches. As time progressed, Freedom Hall Church of God acquired establishments in Florida, St. Vincent and Jamaica.
At present, the Church moves on, and the members know that by no means have they attained completion. The desire is to continue working for the Lord and evangelize Brooklyn as much as is necessary to bring souls to Christ. Along with other Churches working toward the same goal, it is expected that Freedom Hall will help in presenting the Lord to all. God desires us to live for Him and He promised to take care of us. Freedom Hall expects to expand its services to include every need in the community. From time to time, check with this growing Church and a report will be given as to satisfying the needs of Brooklyn. God is with us, and with God, all things are possible. Moreover, God commands us to go and do what Jesus did—caring for others.
The facilities at 629 Albany Avenue are able to accommodate 500 and are so constructed that it can be easily extended to accommodate more. It is expected that these extensions will be done according to need from time to time.
You are welcome to visit with the Freedom Hall Family anytime and if you need fellowship, please feel FREE to be a part of this vibrant body. Our desire is to serve the Lord faithfully in spirit and truth, and to work in His vineyard ‘til He comes.