Religion

Faith In Brooklyn for July 31

July 31, 2013 By Francesca Norsen Tate, Religion Editor Brooklyn Daily Eagle
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Church Launches Fundraiser For Historic ‘Pilgrim’ Window

Brown Memorial Baptist Church has made the news for its endeavor to restore one of its iconic Tiffany windows.

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Both New York 1 and Brooklyn’s News 12 broadcast segments of the Clinton Hills church’s fundraiser for its Tiffany stained glass window called “The Pilgrim.”

According to the News 12 Brooklyn report, Brown Memorial Church had already received a grant for $200,000 to repair and restore “The Pilgrim,” but the cost is higher and at least $150,000 is needed.

Beverly Jacobs of Brown Memorial Baptist Church’s told New York 1 on Monday that the Pilgrim Window “has not had any repairs since its installation in 1891. Basically, it’s a victim of the elements, of the wear and tear. It has accumulated dust and dirt. It is falling apart from the frames of the window.” Likewise, fellow congregant Marcus Harris told New York 1 that the church “was a place of stability as I grew up. Here, I was able to do boy scouts, I was able to do choir rehearsal, I was able to work in the community.” Harris said, “The window is just one of those key points that we just need to fix in order to be able to make sure that we’re still in the community.”

As of press time for this column, the church was launching a fundraiser to start on Monday at 6 p.m.

The congregation’s formation dates back to 1916, and this new faith community, consisting of seven former members of the Berean Baptist Church, was named in memory of their former pastor, the late Rev. Leonard Joseph Brown, according to a history published on Brown Memorial’s website.

Ground was broken on May 14, 1921; and the Supreme Lodge Knights of Pythians laid the cornerstone. Brown Memorial Baptist Church was dedicated on March 25, 1922. The first service in the new sanctuary is recorded on the church’s website as having taken place on Sunday, April 4, 1922. [Editor’s Note: Online perpetual calendars for 1922 show April 4 as having been on a Tuesday.]

Fast-forward to the ministry of Brown Memorial’s seventh and current pastor, the Rev. Clinton Miller, who was installed on March 19, 2001. During his first 12 years here, he has led the building of the Brown Memorial Fellowship Hall and the progress of major renovations of their main building, including the restoration of the Pilgrim Window and unique stained glass windows. He has also led the expansion of youth programs and choirs. A scholarship fund has been established in Pastor Miller’s name.
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Synagogue Takes to Outdoors Ushering in New Month of Elul

The Brooklyn Heights Synagogue (Reform) invites the wider community to welcome in the Hebrew month of Elul, a time of reflection, renewal and hope.

Rosh Chodesh signifies the marking of a new month; whereas Rosh HaShanah celebrates a new year in the Hebrew liturgical calendar. Rosh Chodesh Elul this year falls on Wednesday Aug. 7 at 8 a.m. The Hebrew month of Elul (which immediately precedes Rosh Hashanah) is a month of reflection, spiritual contemplation and preparation for the High Holy Days and the opportunity for renewal that the New Year brings. This service marks the beginning of this preparatory period.

Senior Rabbi Serge Lippe and Rabbi Molly Kane will lead a brief service for Rosh Chodesh Elul at the intersection of Montague Street and the Promenade/ The service concludes with the sounding of the Shofar.  RSVP’S are needed ([email protected]) so that notifications can be sent in case of rain.

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Former DA Candidate Now Supports Ken Thompson for Job

The Brooklyn Eagle has learned that Abe George, who spoke at a recent Brooklyn Congregations United Candidates Forum, has withdrawn from the race for Brooklyn District Attorney.

Interestingly, Abe George was the only candidate for Brooklyn District Attorney to appear and speak at the July 21 Candidates Forum, which was hosted at the Flatbush Reformed Church. Incumbent District Attorney Charles J. Hynes did not attend the forum.

Mr. George, who officially ended his own campaign on Monday, July 29, has given his support to former federal prosecutor Ken Thompson, who on Monday picked up the endorsements of the city’s largest labor union, Congress members Yvette Clarke and Hakeem Jeffries, and several local Democratic clubs. Mr. George’s exit from the race leaves Ken Thompson as District Attorney Hynes’ only challenger in the Sept. 10 Democratic primary.
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