Celebrating 18 Years of Being the Church That Loves!

In 2007, a church was born in the heart of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, that would make a difference in its community: Maranatha House of Prayer. Its first home was on Division Street, and from there began a story of faith, dedication, and love that today, eighteen years later, continues to be written with the same passion as at the beginning.

The first to believe and remain faithful were a few courageous servants like Mary Santos, Katherine Minaya, and Delia Arias, who have witnessed the growth and transformation of this spiritual home since its beginning. Under the initial leadership of Pastor Miguel Minaya, with a clear vision: "to fill the earth with the glory of God". A seed of hope was planted that has flourished abundantly over the years.

Throughout its history, Maranatha House of Prayer has been pastored by men of God such as Pastor Máximo Deleón and Apostle Noel Santiago, who also left important marks on the spiritual formation of the congregation. Today, led by Pastors Servio and Vanessa Méndez, the church continues to advance with a solid structure and a passionate heart for the Kingdom of God. Its motto, "We are the church that loves," is not just a phrase, but a lifestyle reflected in every member, ministry, and action. Since moving in April 2017 to its current location at 161 New Brunswick Avenue, the church has experienced remarkable ministerial growth. The desire of the children to serve the body of Christ is impressive, and the ministerial organization has been key in developing a vibrant, active, and committed church.

Maranatha House of Prayer is recognized as an evangelizing, generous, and serving church. One of the most impactful moments in its history was when, through the Gospel Changes movement, other churches felt inspired to take to the streets to preach the message of salvation. It was a spiritual awakening that profoundly impacted the entire community.

In these 18 years, more than 25 marriages have been celebrated, numerous children have been presented to the Lord, and ministers have been raised up prepared to serve and extend the Kingdom of God. Each of these milestones represents the Lord's grace and faithfulness to this house.

To commemorate this anniversary, special recognitions have been prepared for brothers and sisters who have demonstrated faithfulness and constant service, celebrating not only years, but lives transformed by the power of God. The celebration is framed by the declaration that Maranatha is “A House for His Glory,” as Ephesians 3:10 (NASB): “…that now through the church the infinite wisdom of God might be made known to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” And sustained by the eternal promise of Matthew 16:18 (NASB): “And I say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”

Today, more than celebrating a number, we celebrate a legacy, a vision, and a love that has transformed lives. So we would like to invite you to join our anniversary celebration on June 6th and 7th at 7pm, and Sunday the 8th at 9:30am at our NJ church location. We can't wait to see you there!

Happy 18th Anniversary, Maranatha House of Prayer. We are the church that loves, and the best is yet to come!