Church History
A Journey of Faith, Community, Endurance and Newness
Foundation and Early Years
The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. was established with a vision to provide a place of worship, healing, and community for all who sought spiritual growth and support. Founded on November 1, 2016, originally started as The City of Refuge Ministries, the church began as a small congregation at 890 County Line Rd, Amityville, NY led by our anointed leader, the late, great, Overseer, Apostle, Dr. Antoine D. Williams, Sr., and his Leading Lady, Pastor Shawna Q. Williams, with their children, Diamond J. Williams and Antoine D. Williams, Jr. by their side. It was with their passion for God’s word, faith, the parishioners, and their dedication to the local Amityville, New York community that began to inspire many. It was also with the support of The House of Refuge Ministries, Inc. of Baldwin, New York that the ministry began to grow and flourish.
A Vision of Restoration
The church's name reflects our core mission: to restore and deliver those in need. From its humble beginnings, the church has focused on spiritual renewal, the enlightenment of God’s Word, and the physical and emotional healing of God’s people. Our Overseer and Pastor believed in creating a space where individuals could find solace, guidance, and a sense of belonging. The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. is driven by creating an atmosphere “Where God’s Truth Reign, His Glory Remains and Your Love We Gain.”
Expansion and Growth
As the congregation grew, so did the church's outreach efforts. In the year 2017, The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. expanded its ministry operations by establishing the praise and worship team, Sunday School Department, Food Pantry, Sisterhood, Brotherhood, and The City Kids Summer Camp. As the ministry began to increase with youth, it was not until 2018 the Youth of God (Y.O.G.) was established under the leadership of the Youth Minister. This period marked a significant milestone in the church's history by setting the ministry up to create innovative programs and initiatives being introduced that would serve the community better.
Community Engagement
The church has always been at the heart of the community, offering diverse services and support systems. From Food Pantry, Community Meet and Greet Barbeques, Back to School Book Bag Giveaways, free Thanksgiving Community meals, to childcare services in the form of a Summer Camp. The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. has made a tangible impact on the lives of many. The commitment to community service remains a cornerstone of the church's mission and the vision of the late, great, Overseer, Apostle, Dr. Antoine D. Williams, Sr.
Spiritual Guidance and Leadership
Under the new leadership of Pastor Shawna Q. Williams, the church will continue to thrive as she boosts in love and homage of expressing to have learned from the best leader on this side of heaven in the person of her late husband, Apostle Williams. The pastoral team is dedicated to providing spiritual guidance and fostering an environment where faith can flourish. Regular worship services, Bible studies, and prayer groups has always been integral to the church's activities, offering members opportunities for growth and fellowship.
Looking Ahead
As The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. looks to the future with a heavy heart with the passing of the founder and Overseer, Apostle Antoine D. Williams, Sr. on January 13, 2024, the church remains committed to its founding principles he instilled into the ministry as his wife has courageously, with the guidance of God and the Holy Spirit taken on the mantle of Senior Pastor. As she leans on the Lord and the anointing bestowed upon her life, the plans for further expansion and new initiatives are already underway, ensuring that the church will continue to serve and inspire generations to come.
A Legacy of Faith
The legacy of The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. is one of faith, dedication, unwavering strength, and triumph. It was with the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 – 2021, the ministry took a major hit, not only in membership, but in the ability to sustain within the church building. With a new vision and call from the Lord, the doors at County Line Rd, were closed on November 30, 2022. Apostle, Dr. Antoine D. Williams, Sr. answered the call to support his fellow laborers in the Lord’s vineyard until his passing. The church's history is a testament to the power of collective effort, the enduring impact of a shared vision and the strength powered by what the enemy meant for evil, God turned to good as the church still stands strong.
In Conclusion
The City of Restoration & Deliverance Ministries, Inc. Church has journeyed from its modest beginnings to become a pillar of strength and hope. With a rich history and a bright future, the church continues to embody its mission of restoration and deliverance, touching countless lives along the way.
