Our Stories

Before worship services could be watched from a phone, before live streams became a familiar part of church life, Michael Porter, a digital media pioneer began imagining something that felt almost impossible: carrying the message of the church beyond its walls through the internet.

It was the late 1990s, a period when online video was still experimental and the simple act of listening or watching over the web could be interrupted by slow connections, buffering, and technical limits. Yet within those limits, Michael Porter saw possibility. After discovering the streaming capabilities of Windows Media, he recognized that church services did not have to remain confined to the sanctuary. They could be transmitted live, reaching members, seekers, and families wherever an internet connection could carry the signal.

With the support of Pastor D.L. McPhaull, Michael Porter and the team began moving from idea to implementation around 1997 and 1998. The work was not simple. Early bandwidth could support only a limited number of viewers, and network bottlenecks could quickly slow the experience. But the response from the church community was immediate and encouraging. What began as a technical experiment became a glimpse of a new kind of ministry—one that could travel across distance in real time.

From that first step, the vision widened. The initiative grew into WKBT radio, an online station that functioned much like an early podcasting and internet radio platform of today. Its programming included pre-recorded sermons, music, Bible studies, drama ministry presentations, and rebroadcasts such as “Bible Answers Live.” Over time, the station found a steady host in Lauren John, with contributions from Elder Pamela Lindo, Elder Ketsia Dorce, Esther Brooks and Correy and Vanessa Blake. We incorporated the village of KBT with tidbits from various ministries and voices not always heard. It went from a simple idea to a Friday night opportunity to open the Sabbath beyond "Family”.

Each person added a piece to the larger story: a story of volunteers and innovators using the tools available to them to serve a mission larger than technology itself.

Long before digital ministry became common language, Kingsboro Temple was creating a space where faith, teaching, and testimony could be heard beyond a single congregation.

Today, when live streams, online sermons, and digital radio feel ordinary, it is easy to forget how uncertain those early efforts once were. But the work of Michael Porter, Pastor D.L. McPhaull, and the WKBT team anticipated a future that would later become essential to churches everywhere.

Their early experiments helped show that digital media could become more than a novelty; it could become a ministry tool, a bridge to the absent, the distant, and the searching.

Their story stands as an early chapter in the history of Adventist online broadcasting—a reminder that innovation often begins quietly, with a question, a tool, and the courage to try something new.

-story contributions by Michael Porter and Lauren John

image from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Written by Sherma Henry & Esther V. Brooks

The Drama Ministry at Kingsboro Temple Seventh-day Adventist Church has a rich and inspiring history that began with the establishment of the church on the Brooklyn College campus in 1991. What started as a small but enthusiastic group of dedicated members grew into a vibrant ministry that touched countless lives through drama, storytelling, and the proclamation of the gospel.

The ministry was founded under the visionary leadership of Esther V. Brooks, who served as its founder, leader, writer, and director. The original members included Nella Roberts, Peter Bispham, Ulysses Berris, Sherma Henry, and her husband, the late Carlton Henry, to name a few. Although the group had no official name in its early years, it was united by a shared passion for using drama as a powerful tool for ministry, evangelism, and spiritual growth.

Operating with very limited resources, the members demonstrated extraordinary commitment and sacrifice. They willingly contributed their own costumes, props, and materials to stage their first production, He Lives. Their dedication laid the foundation for what would become one of the church’s most impactful ministries.

As Kingsboro Temple continued to grow, the Drama Ministry expanded alongside it. Following the church’s move to Foster Avenue and 23rd Street in Brooklyn, the ministry gained new momentum and reached even greater heights.

During this period, Pastor Abraham J. Jules introduced the group to professional actor Verania Kenton, who conducted a drama workshop to strengthen the members’ theatrical skills and stage presentation. Equipped with renewed confidence, enhanced techniques, and a deeper understanding of dramatic ministry, the team began presenting skits and plays during Sabbath School and Adventist Youth (AY) services.

These presentations quickly became a source of inspiration and spiritual encouragement for the congregation. Through compelling performances, the Drama Ministry brought Bible stories to life, addressed contemporary Christian issues, and created meaningful opportunities for worship, reflection, and evangelism. What began as a small group of committed believers had become a dynamic ministry, faithfully using the performing arts to glorify God and share His message of hope with the community.

This season also welcomed many new members, including Pamela Lindo, the late John Dummett, Krystal Simon, Louvella Simon, the late Angela Simon (collectively known as the Simon Sisters), and their mother, Sister Mary Townsend. Also joining the ministry were Tishonna McCottry-Hobson, Eunick Gilles, and the late Jeffrey Reese, each bringing unique talents and creativity that enriched the ministry’s presentations.

Following the church’s relocation to Park Slope, the Drama Ministry experienced another period of significant growth. New members Ketsia Dorsey, Ashton Antoine, Nyslie Guerrier, Pierre Michel, Leland Lazarus, Jorge Lazarus, and Glenroy Price joined the team. During this exciting chapter, the ministry adopted its first official name: TRACES, an acronym for True Remnant Adventist Christians Evangelizing Souls. The name was thoughtfully suggested by Leanne Banks and reflected the group’s mission to use drama as a powerful means of sharing the gospel.

Under the name TRACES, the ministry’s influence extended well beyond the walls of Kingsboro Temple. The group received invitations to minister at numerous Seventh-day Adventist congregations as well as other Christian churches. On special occasions, guest actors joined the ministry, adding depth and diversity to its productions.

Throughout the years, Pastor Abraham J. Jules remained one of the ministry’s strongest supporters. His unwavering encouragement allowed drama to become an integral part of the worship experience. Through his leadership, the church provided financial support, enabling the ministry to pursue larger and more ambitious projects. Among these accomplishments were the ministry’s first Drama Awards Production and Mother’s Day Banquet, both held in the Goff Auditorium. The ministry also had the opportunity to travel to Maryland, where it ministered at Miracle Temple Church in Baltimore, expanding its reach beyond New York.

TRACES became known for producing major theatrical presentations that combined artistic excellence with powerful spiritual messages. One of its most memorable productions was From Whence We Came, written by Esther V. Brooks and Judith Lawrence. The production portrayed the journey of African people across the Atlantic, highlighting both the tragedy of their suffering and the resilience of their faith. To ensure authenticity, Charles Daramola and other African members assisted in obtaining traditional African attire, adding cultural richness and historical significance to the presentation.

As the ministry continued to evolve, it adopted a new name: A New Stage. Under this new identity, the group presented another landmark production, A Soulful Gift, which chronicled the life of Jesus Christ—from His birth to His resurrection. This remarkable production was a collaborative effort between the Drama Ministry and the Kingsboro Temple Choir under the leadership of the late Roy Ashmeade. Cheryl Murrell created the costumes with the assistance of Mercedes Draggon, contributing significantly to the production’s visual impact and artistic excellence.

Both From Whence We Came and A Soulful Gift attracted overwhelming community support, drawing standing-room-only audiences and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. These productions demonstrated the ministry’s unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and its dedication to presenting the gospel in creative, compelling, and meaningful ways.

From 1991 to 2002, the Drama Ministry flourished under the gifted and visionary leadership of Esther V. Brooks. Her passion, creativity, and tireless dedication established a legacy that continues to inspire those who served in the ministry and those whose lives were touched by its work. When she relocated to the Caribbean in 2002, leadership of the ministry was entrusted to Kent Sutton, marking the beginning of a new chapter while preserving the strong foundation she had built.

The history of the Kingsboro Temple Drama Ministry is ultimately a story of faith, sacrifice, creativity, and service. From humble beginnings—with borrowed costumes and a handful of dedicated members—it grew into a respected ministry that impacted churches, communities, and countless lives through the transforming power of Christian drama. Its legacy stands as a testament to what God can accomplish through willing hearts committed to using their gifts for His glory.

More than three decades later, the seeds planted by those early pioneers continue to bear fruit. The legacy of the Kingsboro Temple Drama Ministry lives on through the lives it touched, the ministries it inspired, and the enduring reminder that drama, when dedicated to God, can be a powerful instrument for evangelism, discipleship, and worship.

Celebration & Praise Choir

Celebration & Praise Choir (CP) was one of the premier choirs of Kingsboro Temple. Its story began in the 1990s under the Pastoral leadership of Dr. Abraham J. Jules. CP was originally formed as a First Anniversary Choir under the directorship of Neville White. Following the anniversary celebration, it was decided that the choir would continue its ministry under the direction of Roy Ashmeade, Jr.

During Roy’s tenure, Celebration & Praise ministered throughout Kingsboro Temple’s worship services, concerts, and special programs, as well as at churches throughout the metropolitan area. At the time, CP served as the Young Adult Choir and experienced a remarkable season of ministry. Elliott Lamour served as Assistant Director and musician during this period and later became the third Director of Celebration & Praise.

From Divine Worship services and Christmas Cantatas to leading Praise & Worship as a choir, CP became an important part of Kingsboro Temple’s music ministry. Their voices, dedication, and commitment to worship touched countless lives. The legacy of Celebration & Praise will always be remembered through its gifted directors, faithful members, and the ministry they shared with everyone who listened, worshiped, and celebrated alongside them.

IIn the early 2000's, CP was invited by Nike, who was the sponsor for the NYC Marathon at the time, to sing during Marathon events and along the route to cheer and encourage the runners.

One of the many treasured highlights of CP’s history occurred on Pastor Jules’ last Sabbath in 1996. Roy Ashmeade was able to get Pastor Jules to dance with the choir as they ministered through the song “I Will Celebrate.” It was a beautiful and unforgettable moment—a true celebration of Dr. Jules’ ministry and a reflection of how far Kingsboro Temple had grown during its first five years.

As Kingsboro Temple celebrates 35 years, we pause to honor and cherish the Ministry of Celebration & Praise Choir and the many memories created throughout its journey. We especially remember with gratitude the lives and contributions of Roy Ashmeade, Jr. and Elliott Lamour, whose leadership helped shape the choir’s legacy.

And now, the celebration continues!

Celebration & Praise Choir will reunite during KBT’s Choir Fest on Saturday, September 26th at 5:30 PM.

Come and celebrate the music, the memories, the ministry, and the legacy of Celebration & Praise!