Passion Week Revival in Brooklyn, New York

by Charnicia Huggins

The “Passion Week” revival at the Apostolic Faith Church at 265 Lafayette Avenue in Brooklyn, New York, began on Palm Sunday, April 5. Sharon Allen gave a praise-filled sermon and the song “Palms of Victory” came to mind as she waved palm branches to illustrate her topic, “Hosanna to the King.” On Monday evening, Godson Tetteh challenged the congregation to reflect on how they want to be remembered by others—presumably not like Jeroboam, who caused Israel to sin (1 Kings 16:26).

Garfield Charles expressed a similar sentiment on Tuesday evening, as he encouraged those in attendance to evaluate their walks with God. The evening also included another treat—testimonies from three of the pastor’s children who were visiting from the South. What a blessing to see the look of joy on Reverend Eugene and Gertie Segres’ faces as they welcomed their children and grandchildren to the service. The joyous atmosphere was in stark contrast to the dismal rainy weather outside!

Joseph Browne gave an inspiring message on Wednesday evening called “Who Is this King of Glory?” and he challenged the audience to allow their “head knowledge” of Christ to become “heart knowledge.” On Thursday evening, the congregation welcomed Reginald Segres (the youngest son of the late Reverend Nick Segres), his wife, Woodrena, and Reginald’s sister, Theresa Gibson, from Kingstree, South Carolina. Woodrena continued the theme from the previous evening as she presented a résumé of Jesus Christ during her sermon. She described Jesus as a hematologist, who infuses individuals with His own precious Blood; a cardiologist, who is the only One who can truly fix one’s heart; a way maker; and a mind regulator.

During the Good Friday service, it was thrilling to hear various church members share their thoughts about the “last seven sayings of Jesus.” The Sunday school students also did a great job presenting a play called “No Cross, No Crown,” based on Lloyd C. Weber’s novel, “The Robe.”

On Easter Sunday, the congregation sang songs of praise and adoration for their Lord and Savior, who has conquered death, hell, and the grave! During his sermon, Reginald Segres read selections from both the Old and New Testaments, and he asked the question, “Are you giving up Jesus for Barabbas?” He said that Barabbas could represent sin, and when one chooses fornication, backbiting, or anything else that is not pleasing to Jesus, he is essentially choosing Barabbas. This powerful sermon called for introspection, and also allowed the congregation to reflect on the previous sermons during the week of revival services. If one chooses Jesus over Barabbas, his Christian walk will be one of honor, and he will know the joy of experiencing Christ as his life changer. Above all, if one chooses Jesus, he will know and celebrate the passion of Jesus Christ, not just during the Easter season, but every day!