REV. DR. ARTHUR W. DAVENPORT: PASTOR EMERITUS

Rev. Dr. Arthur W. Davenport is a dedicated preacher, teacher, mentor, and coach. His deep love for God and people is evident in his service. He was the senior pastor of First Church of God in Far Rockaway, New York, and was called to the ministry in January 1957, following his conversion to Christ on June 2, 1955, at Christ Community Church in Jamaica, N.Y.

Dr. Davenport became a member of the Church of God in 1962 under the mentorship of Rev. Dr. James E. Cray, serving as his associate minister and later as the assistant pastor. After Dr. Cray retired, Dr. Davenport assumed the role of senior pastor, serving for 42 years until December 31, 2019.

Throughout his ministry, he led First Church of God and held various Christian leadership positions at both local and national levels, fostering an environment of love, faith, hope, prayer, and vision. His leadership has helped to develop pastors, ministers, and Christian leaders in the local community and beyond, impacting families, businesses, and government.

Dr. Davenport has served on several boards, including those for Church of God Ministries, the Concert of Prayer Greater New York, Faith in New York, Here’s Life Greater New York, and the Eastern New York General Assembly of the Church of God, among others. He remains active in ministry as a preacher, teacher, and advisor to churches, community organizations, and individuals. He holds the title of Pastor Emeritus at First Church of God, Distinguished Elder of the National Association of the Church of God in West Middlesex, PA, and President Emeritus of the Rockaway Inwood Ministerial Coalition.

Dr. Davenport is active each week in the following ministries: Tuesday men discipleship breakfast; Tuesday MOVEMENT.ORG pastors and leaders prayer session; First Church of God Tuesday Early Morning Prayer 6:30 to 7:30 AM; First Church of God Wednesday, Noonday Prayer Session; Thursday Men Discipleship Zoom Meeting across seven States; and Mentoring and Building Relationships with pastors, lay ministers, and non-church members.

Dr. Davenport is married to Rev. Norma Gean Bethea-Davenport, and together they enjoy a blended family that includes five children, twelve grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.