Timeline
A LEGACY OF
FAITH & COMMUNITY
The North Philadelphia Seventh-day Adventist Church has served its community since 1955. Across generations, its story has been shaped by faith, growth, perseverance, and a commitment to sharing Christ throughout North Philadelphia.
The North Church Is Organized
On December 17, Elder W. A. Thompson officially organized North Philadelphia Seventh-day Adventist Church with 106 charter members. The congregation first worshiped in the lower auditorium of Immanuel Institutional Bible Church.
A Growing Congregation
Elder Charles L. Brooks became pastor as North continued to grow. The congregation eventually moved to Jones Memorial Baptist Church on Dauphin Street, but soon outgrew that location as well.
A Building of Their Own
On October 17, the congregation moved to 1313 West Susquehanna Avenue. Unlike its previous worship locations, this building belonged to the church itself.
Reaching the Neighborhood
Elder Leon Cox became pastor and used the church's location as an opportunity for outreach. An evangelistic series held on the lawn beside the church helped bring more people into the congregation.
North Reaches a New High
Elder William DeShay became pastor. During his leadership, an evangelistic series led by Elder Charles D. Brooks helped North's membership reach an all-time high.
Elder William Hall Begins
In May, Elder William Hall became pastor of North. His sixteen years of leadership would include some of the most challenging and transformative moments in the church's history.
Faith Through the Fire
On October 11, a fire destroyed the church building. National Temple Baptist Church and Shiloh Apostolic Temple Church welcomed North and provided places for the congregation to worship during the rebuilding period.
Another New Home
The church purchased the former Mother Divine church building across the street from the fire-damaged property. After members worked together to repair and paint the building, the congregation moved in during 1993.
Building for the Future
Under Elder Hall's leadership, the congregation built a new church building. North moved into its new home on October 12, 2002.
A Focus on Outreach
On February 11, Elder Keith Goodman, Sr. became senior pastor. His passion for social justice helped lead North into outreach efforts that included mentoring children of incarcerated parents.
Pastor Marquis D. Johns
The North Church welcomed Pastor Marquis D. Johns as lead pastor on March 5, continuing the congregation's long tradition of ministry and evangelism.
Pastor Jamond Jimmerson
Pastor Jamond Jimmerson joined the North Philadelphia Seventh-day Adventist Church family in February 2020, beginning another chapter in North's continuing story.
Pastor Ndubuisi Nwade
In February 2025, The North Church welcomed Pastor Ndubuisi Nwade as lead pastor, bringing with him a passion for worship, discipleship, and spiritual growth.
IT'S ONLY NORTH FROM HERE.
Our history reminds us of generations of faith, perseverance, and service. Today, that legacy continues as The North Church looks toward what God has in store next.