Staten Island church struggles to survive

One of New York City’s oldest churches has seen its congregation decline steadily over the years, but churchgoers hope the faithful will flock through its doors in time for Christmas.

This Reformed Church was erected in 1844, but a previous church stood in the same spot as far back as 1715. It’s been declared a historic landmark.

The church’s congregation is the oldest in Staten Island and many generations of Islanders—including Yahoo News photographer Gordon Donovan—worshipped and were baptized at the church, before attendance began flagging. (Yahoo News)

Photography by Gordon Donovan/Yahoo News

Find more news related pictures in our photo galleries and follow us on Tumblr.