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Christ Church was founded by Rev. Robert Porter II on Feb 5th 1986 at its original location 82 surrey circle shirley Ny. The church quickly grew as God accompanied his word with great impact on the surrounding area. The initial passion for preaching of the Gospel remains at the core of our mission. Only in his early twenties, the Lord used Pastor Porter to co-labour with him, establishing a work that would continue for decades and generations to come.
To accommodate growth the church moved to its present Shirley location in 1996. The hand of the Lord was evident in this acquisition in every way including using the previous owner to help secure the permanency of the church in the Shirley area. The property was maintained and updated through the great love and sacrifice of the covenant partners of Christ church Shirley. It continues to be a beacon of hope and a sounding board for the gospel in Shirley under the oversight of Pastors Robert and Tricia Porter. This has been a proven place that loves God and Loves people through unwavering dedication to be a weekly source of Gospel ministry.
At the Windmill diner Pastor Porter met Pastor Tony Baxter (Vecchione), who was the founder of 'Ridge Full Gospel Church' which is now 'Christ Church Alive' Ridge, New York. A lifetime of Friendship and brotherhood developed including each man holding an integral role in the life of the two churches. Pastor Tony served as a Christ Church Board Member and yearly speaker. Pastor Porter played an essential role in the acquisition of additional Ridge property and served as interim Pastor during transition. After several years of Pastor Porter assuming leadership of the 'Ridge Full Gospel Church' the church, by unanimous consent of the board of trustees, became 'Christ Church Ridge'.
The property of 'Christ Church Ridge' was updated during the pandemic. With no shortage of challenges, the ' Christ Church' Shirley Location contributed the spiritual leadership and financial support to reestablish the church in Ridge. The 9-acre facility nestled in the Long Island Pine Barrens is regionally located and is a special property dedicated for church use only. Under the direction of its present Pastor and caretaker the church is maintained by the loving support of its covenant partners. Both churches maintain unity of purpose, working individually and collectively each year to reach the surrounding areas with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.