The New York Christian Times honored Bishop Nicolas with a Lifetime Achievement Award, presented with great respect by publisher Rev. Dennis Dillon.
Bishop Nicolas surrounded by: (l to r) Public Advocate Jumaane Williams; Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn; NYS Attorney General Letitia James; US Senator Chuck Schumer; Rev. Samuel Nicolas; City Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse; City Councilmember Farah Louis; and Debbie Louis, Assistant Secretary, Intergovernmental Affairs, Office of Governor Kathy Hochul.
On December 21, 2025, the Evangelical Crusade Church in Brooklyn transformed into a vibrant celebration of faith, community, and legacy as Bishop Philius Nicolas marked his remarkable 95th birthday. A beacon of hope for countless individuals, Bishop Nicolas’s journey from a humble Haitian immigrant to a revered spiritual leader is nothing short of inspiring. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as several hundred guests gathered to honor a man whose life has been a testament to empowerment and liberation theology.
Born on December 22, 1930, in Haiti, Bishop Nicolas’s story began as a bricklayer, but his determination and vision propelled him to America in 1965. He quickly adapted to his new life, working as an X-ray technician and later becoming an entrepreneur with ventures including a dry-cleaning business and a local radio station, WYGG-88.1FM, which at its peak reached over 300,000 listeners. His entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his deep commitment to his community, particularly Haitian immigrants, exemplifying the very essence of his ministry.
The evening’s festivities were enriched by a multimedia tribute chronicling Bishop Nicolas’s life, crafted by one of his grandchildren. From his early days in Haiti to his significant call to ministry after graduating from seminary, each chapter showcased his relentless dedication to empowering the disenfranchised. His words resonated deeply: “Before we go to heaven, we need to go to school, we need houses to live in, we must face and win victories over these immigration challenges, we must eat, and we must stand and face the challenges of our earthly living.” These sentiments encapsulate his ministry’s core – advocating for education, shelter, and justice for the voiceless.
As the founder of the Haitian Evangelical Clergy Association and The Federation of Overseas Haitian Churches, Bishop Nicolas has not only influenced individual lives but has also built a robust network for community support. Notably, he and his wife, who have shared nearly 70 years of marriage, spearheaded a landmark project – a $45 million, 89-unit senior residence at 1488 New York Avenue, proudly bearing their names and providing crucial housing for the elderly.
The birthday tribute was a lively and soulful occasion, featuring music, worship, and heartfelt tributes from dignitaries such as Senator Chuck Schumer and Councilmember Farah Louis. The New York Christian Times honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, presented with great respect by Rev. Dennis Dillon. Each tribute reflected the profound impact of Bishop Nicolas’s ministry, underscoring his unwavering commitment to uplift those around him.
Bishop Nicolas is a father of five, grandfather to 13, and great-grandfather to five, surrounded by a loving family that cherishes his legacy. As the current pastor of the Evangelical Crusade Church, his son, Rev. Samuel Nicolas, continues to carry forward the mission of their father, ensuring that his message of empowerment and faith endures for generations to come.
Bishop Philius Nicolas’s 95th birthday was not just a celebration of his life; it was a tribute to the spirit of resilience and hope he embodies. As guests left the church, they carried with them not only memories of a joyful evening but also a renewed commitment to continue the work that Bishop Nicolas has dedicated his life to: empowering the community and advocating for justice and compassion. Here’s to many more years of love, faith, and community impact for this remarkable leader!
