The same path for the father Caesar, son Roderick, Jr., and grandson Roderick III (not pictured).

On August 22, 1932, Reverend Roderick Caesar, Sr used cottage prayer meetings in southeast Queens to found Bethel Gospel Mission on South Road. Today, the church is named Bethel Gospel Tabernacle and is led by the third generation.

Because Bethel has gained fame as reliable and steadfast in our city’s crisis, the church is taking a new name in the Fall 2022: Foundation Church.

For more read THE YIN AND YANG OF OLD SCHOOL PKS. RODERICK CAESAR, JR.–A CONSISTENT PATH.

Also, hear the rap on Justice by Roderick Caesar III.

“Retro Flashes” are Journey’s quick takes on moments of history that have made New York City what it is, what New Yorkers are, and, maybe, what it will be.