Abraham P. Samuel

Rev. Abraham Samuel, fondly known as Rajan, was born on May 15, 1948, in Keekkozhoor, Ranny, Kerala, India, Rev. Samuel hailed from the esteemed Pottakulathu family and was one of nine children of the late Mr. Philip P. Abraham and Mrs. Mariamma Abraham, both ministers themselves. His loving siblings are: the late Jainamma Kuruvilla, Philipose Abraham, Elizabeth Thomas, Rev. James Abraham, the late John Abraham, Simon Abraham, Esther Zachariah, and Ruth Thomas.

Rev. Samuel accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at a young age and was baptized, setting him on a lifelong path of devotion to the Lord. He served in the Indian Air Force, where he learned values of discipline and resilience. In 1972, he married Saramma John, and together they immigrated to the United States in 1976. His deepening love for Christ led him to pursue ministry alongside Pastor A.C. George at India Pentecostal Church in Queens, NY, igniting a passion that would shape the rest of his life.

Determined to fulfill his calling, he attended Jimmy Swaggart Bible College in Louisiana. After graduation, he returned to New York and in 1987, he founded Bethel Pentecostal Church in the Bronx. The church flourished under his care, eventually relocating to Mount Vernon, NY, where it has gathered for worship and ministry for over 30 years. His dedication to the Gospel inspired his sons, Bejoy and Bobby (John), to follow in his footsteps, becoming pastors as well as his daughter Bincy serving as a deacon and continuing his legacy. Rev. Samuel’s vision for God’s work extended beyond the U.S., as he pioneered churches, orphanages, and a Bible School in India.

Known for his generosity and sacrificial spirit, Rev. Samuel even resigned from his position as a Corrections Officer to fully dedicate himself to ministry. Rev. Samuel peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord on Friday, November 8, 2024, after a courageous journey through a prolonged illness. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Saramma, his children Bincy (spouse Jiji), Bejoy (spouse Nisha), and Bobby (John) (spouse Simmy), as well as seven cherished grandchildren: Selina (spouse Marvin), Melissa, Jayse, Aliza, Erika, Judah, and Jonathan.

Rev. Samuel’s enduring legacy is marked by his role as a catalyst for the next generation of Gospel ministers. His life, though marked by countless accomplishments, was ultimately defined by his unwavering commitment to Christ and his love for others. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, church, and all who were touched by his ministry. We find comfort in the promise of reunion in Christ’s return.

This is not a goodbye but a “see you later” in the glorious presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.