The People of Salem Church
Founded in the beginning of the 20th century, the once all-Norwegian ethnic church is thriving today. Salem Evangelical Free Church is located in the West Brighton area in Staten Island, New York, but its reach goes much further: hundreds of islanders from across the borough, “Brooklynites”, and even several New Jersey residents call this place home. Over the past century, Salem Church has experienced mass growth and incredible diversification, largely due to its adoption of a “missional” focus: to reach the people in its surrounding community and beyond. The people of Salem Church are driven by the message of the Gospel, presented in the Bible: Jesus Christ came to set sinners free. For this reason, their mission is, “To love God and love people by meeting them where they are and leading them towards a lifelong, joyous relationship with Christ.”
Saint Paul’s Alba House
The Society of Saint Paul runs Saint Paul’s Alba House on Staten Island, New York. The store not only sells religious books and church supplies, but also sells statues, pictures, prayer beads, and saint cards. Saint Paul’s also offers general spiritual items such as nonspecific inspirational literature and gifts, including poems for friends and teachers (“Society of Saint Paul: History of Congregation” n.p.). Rather than becoming threatened by online stores, such as Amazon and eBay, Saint Paul’s runs its own online store and ships its merchandise. Also on their website, Saint Paul’s offers information for those interested in becoming members of the clergy (“Vocation Priests and Brothers Society of Saint Paul” n.p.). This society is a publishing company as well; writers interested in publishing books within a religious genre send their drafts to Saint Paul’s for review. In addition to the store, Saint Paul’s Alba House location also includes a perpetual adoration chapel, a prayer room illuminated by dozens of white candles, a garden, and multiple outdoor shrines of the Holy Family and some popular saints, including Padre Pio and Saint Anthony.
The Coptic Orthodox Church
The Coptic Orthodox Church is a growing prevalence in America, specifically in Staten Island, New York. It is a determining factor in the identity of many Copts who grew up or moved to America. Orthodoxy is a religion that prides itself for keeping its traditions the same since it first began. This religion is a major contributing factor to how people identify themselves. The church’s ability to remain the same for millions of years, even in America, has made it a foundation for many settlers. Today, this church has created programs to aid in the assimilation of incoming Copts to America.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Grotto
The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Grotto is a Marian (in lay people’s terms, something dedicated to the Virgin Mary) shrine nestled in Staten Island’s Rosebank neighborhood. It has stood for more than a century and is just as much a historical site as it is a place of religious devotion.
The Staten Island Hindu Temple
Hidden away in the midst of Victory Boulevard, a Temple stands. Those who do not pay attention might miss it because of its unassuming appearance. However, when entering the temple, an individual is filled with thoughts of relaxation and peace. Essentially, the temple described above is known as The Staten Island Hidden Temple and it was recently founded by a very devoted group of Hindus who felt the desire to practice their religion close to home. Today, the Staten Island Hindu population continues to grow and the temple now has a mailing list containing 400 families. This growth, in turn, has allowed Staten Island Hindus to impact the broader community.
