Mount Ararat Church

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Testimonies

Read What People Are Saying About MABCBK

Years of Growth and Grace

I joined Mount Ararat Church many years ago, looking for a place where my faith could grow. What I found was not just a church, but a family that has walked with me through every season of my life. Through joyful celebrations and challenging trials, this community has stood by me. Pastor Carter’s powerful preaching and the church’s commitment to teaching the Word of God have kept me rooted in my faith and passionate about serving others. I’m so grateful to have been part of this journey for over two decades. I’ve grown spiritually, seen countless lives transformed, and experienced the grace of God in ways I never imagined. Mount Ararat is more than a church to me; it’s home. -K Smith; Long Island, NY

I Thought I Was Too Far Gone.....

I was convinced that church was not for someone like me. My past was too messy and my mistakes were too many. But then, one Sunday, I decided to go to church with one of my friends, and she was a member of Mount Ararat. I sat in the back, feeling unworthy and out of place, but that soon changed. Pastor Carter’s sermon on grace was like a direct message from God to me. For the first time, I understood that forgiveness was for everyone, even me. The warmth of the congregation erased my fears, and I knew this was where I belonged. To find a pastor who was not afraid to admit that he was not perfect was what I wanted to hear. And to add icing on the cake, I came dressed only to realize that most of the people who were there were dressed casually, which made me feel even more comfortable. I’m glad to be a member because our church doesn't just preach about acceptance—we live it. I’ve experienced forgiveness, healing, and a fresh start here. This church has given me a chance to rebuild my life, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Thanks Pastor for allowing me to share my story and journey! -Timothy B; Staten Island, NY

From Isolation to Connection

For years, I had been drifting from one church to another, mostly in Brooklyn, never quite feeling like I belonged. When I stumbled upon Mount Ararat by simply walking down the street, I didn't expect it to be any different. I decided to visit since I was new to the community and it was nearby. When I entered it was something about the way the congregation welcomed me from day one that made me feel at home. The first service I attended was so full of life, with a message that was both profound and relevant. The preacher was teaching on overcoming struggles and it hit close to my heart, and I realized I had finally found a place where I could grow spiritually. I knew I had to come back! As a member now for almost 10 years, I appreciate the deep sense of community here. The people are genuine, and the support I've received has been incredible. This church has connected me to a family that cares for my well-being, and I’m grateful to be part of something so special. -D. Staton; Brooklyn, NY

I Grew Up Here, And I am Still Here...

I grew up attending Mount Ararat Church, and now years later, I’m still here, having raised my own children in the same community that nurtured me. It’s a blessing to see my family growing in faith together, generation after generation. My mother used to be one of the main lead singers in the choir under the founding Pastor Dr. James T. Reeder, and now I am the Worship Leader under Pastor Carter who also grew up here at the church. His teachings have been a guiding light for me as I navigate life’s challenges. The consistency, love, and biblical wisdom that this church offers have been a foundation I can depend on. It’s a place that feels like home, no matter how much time passes. As a long-time member, I’m excited to see what the future holds for this church. I’m committed to passing down this legacy of faith to the next generation, just as it was passed down to me. -K Summerson; Long Island; NY

My Life Was Almost Over

I was at my lowest point when I first walked through the doors of Mount Ararat Church. My career was collapsing, my family was distant, and I felt lost. I had almost given up on everything, but a friend invited me to a Sunday service, and something changed. The warmth of the congregation and the passionate message of hope touched my heart. I still remember Pastor Carter's words about God's unconditional love felt like they were meant just for me. I left that service with a renewed sense of purpose and a glimmer of hope I hadn't felt in years. I came back the next week, then the week after, and eventually, I decided to join the church. I’m glad I joined because this church is more than just a place of worship—it's a family. The friendships I've formed here have been life-saving, and the community has been there for me in ways I never expected. I've found peace, joy, and a purpose that goes beyond my wildest dreams. If you are looking for a place of worship to call home, I invite you to visit on any Sunday, you will NOT be disappointed! -J. Jackson; Bronx, NY

I Invested My Profession in Mount Ararat, and Guess What Happen?

I remember when I first started attending the church, I was blessed through the experience and at the end of my first year, I wanted to give Pastor Carter a financial blessing. When I handed him to check that I knew he would be excited to receive, he replied and said, "Thank you for your gift, but instead of making that donation to me, give it to the church." I was blown away because I just knew that he would want it. Bigger than this, he shared with me, "We need your profession but we are not able to afford it at this time. I made the decision to make an investment and give back to my church family, and that was probably one of my best decisions ever in my life. I am happy to say that using my profession has helped advanced the overall ministry of our ministry, and I am humbled and honored. He often shared with me, "When you bless God's house, God will bless your house." He has never been a pastor who wanted for himself, but always thought about the overall need of the church, and that is something that I will always respect. I can personally tell you that I have seen him time and time again place the church before his own needs, which to be honest, at times I never understood. This is why I am excited to be connected to this ministry because I know I am connected with a leader who is focused on Gods house more than his pockets, which cannot be said of many pastors or leader of today. I challenge you today, when you take care of Gods house with your faithfulness in tithes and offerings, God will take care of your house. If you dont believe me, try it and see for yourself. i am a witness, you can't beat Gods giving, no matter how hard you try! -C. Bramwell; Long Island, NY

My Brother Committed Suicide....

Many years ago my brother committed suicide and his pastor would not do the funeral because he said it was an unforgivable sin. We didnt know what to do, and a close friend of mine said, "Let me call Pastor Carter." He called Pastor and he agreed to do the service for my family. When he started the sermon he said, "None of us are qualified to judge him for suicide because we are not God." Immediately a huge load fell off of my shoulders. When he preached the message, he didn't focus on the sin omy deceased brother, he focused on the love of God that is available to each of us to help us get through this process. It was supposed to be a church where we were just holding the service, but myself and a few other family members decided at the repast that we would join this ministry. We joined and have grown in great ways. A church that could give compassion in such a hard time was the church I wanted to belong to. There is so much more I can say, but I will share it if I get to meet you personally. -Nicole F: Queens, NY

When My Church Got Me Out of a Ticket

I was on the phone one day while driving. I was pulled over and the police officer asked me for my license and registration and told me that he pulled me over because I was on the phone. I said to him, "I am the Assistant to Pastor Carter and I was on the phone with him, I apologize." He responded, "Pastor Carter of Mount Ararat Church?" I said, "Yes sir." He said, "Get off the phone, tell Pastor I said hello and have a nice day." Never in my life did I think that being connected to a church could get you out of a ticket. What that showed me was that I am connected to a church that is respected in our community. I was always proud of our church, but that day made me even more proud. I have shared this story many times and I am happy to share it again. My family and I have sinced moved from Brooklyn, but the impact that this congregation has had on my life will always remain etched in our hearts. -Kywani M; Atlanta, GA

From Street Life to Church Life

My homeboy and I used to work out every Sunday at a local gym. Afterwhile he started missing Sundays and was telling me that he was going to church. I never really been to a church because that's not how I was raised, but I was curious because he was missing gym time, and he never skips out on gym. I went with him one Sunday and when I saw that the pastor was young and relatable, it sparked my curiosity. His teaching style was different than what I anticipated. I thought it would be all about what we should not be doing. The message was relatable and his teaching style was funny. I am not the one to laugh, but he has a way of making you laugh through his sermons. I joined the church and have been active for many years. He has officiated my wedding as well as blessed people in my family on both spiritual and personal levels. I am excited to continue to be a part of this church because it makes me feel loved and cared for. I have actually developed my own family inside over the years, and I would not change them for the world. Oh yeah, I used to be gangsta, but now I have changed the passion and use it to serve people as I enjoy representing Christ in my every day life and living. -Kareeb Beckham; Long Island, NY

Pastor Carter in Court: Guess Why?

My son was arrested for having a gun. I thought his life was over. When I came to the Pastor, he immediately made some phone calls to make sure that my son was safe in the system. After my son was released, he sat and spoke with us and helped us walk through the process. He prayed for us and said to keep him informed. When the court day came for my son to be sentenced, we looked around and who do we see sitting in the courtroom? Pastor Carter! I was shocked! My family was shocked! The lawyers were shocked! Even the judge herself was shocked! She said, "In all of my years on the bench, I have never seen a pastor show up in court." Because this was my son's first offense, the judge struck a deal with the pastor and said, "If you agree to allow him to do community service at the church for one year, we will strike his record clean and allow him to move on." Pastor agreed, my son worked at the church for that one year and his record was cleared. He went on to college and graduated and is now an actor and has played on the show "Law and Order." I am just glad to be a part of this church and there is nothing that can ever change my love for the pastor and the congregation because he didnt have to agree to show up and/or support us during this trying time. We love our church community! -Annoymous

I Was Homeless, But MABCBK....

One day a group of people came to my shelter to drop off some items for us. I never saw them before, but I wanted to see what they had. I went and picked out some items, and one of the volunteers invited me to come to church the next day. I went to church the next day and enjoyed the service. I decided to go back the next Sunday, and when I went back the next Sunday one of the members had a connection to help people who were looking to get out of shelters. Someone directed her to me, and before I knew it, she took my information and then I received a voucher to move me from the shelter to an apartment. All I could think to myself was, "If I didn't attend the service, I would not be in my apartment." I am glad that this church has not only inspired me spiritually, it has played a role in transforming my life practically. I am glad to be connected to a church that helps people not just on Sundays, but every day of the week. -Ciara L; Brooklyn, NY

It Happened at the Block Party

Many years ago I was walking in the community and saw that there was a church having a block party. I decided to pass through since I had nothing else going on that day. I went and saw the people having fun and I saw this man riding a horse with children laughing around him. Someone said to me, "That's the pastor." I said to myself, "Wow, the pastor is cool enough to ride the horse." After meeting some of the people who treated me well, I decided to visit the worship service the next day. When I went inside and felt the love and enjoyed the service, I joined the church that Sunday. It's been almost 20 years since I have been a member of MABCBK, and I have grown tremendously in ways I have never imagined. I am now heavily engaged in ministry and has witnessed the continued growth of this community. I am so excited that I decided to pass through for the Block Party! I guess I thought I was making the decision, but upon reflection, God was ordering my steps. The church has been there for me in highs and lows in my life. I could not have asked to be connected to a better community. If you are looking for a church family to belong to, I invite you to come and visit. I truly believe that you will feel the same way I felt. -Greta Dobson; Brooklyn, NY