Hope Christian Fellowship was founded in 1984 as a ministry of Rochester Christian Church. Under the leadership of Rev. Alfonso Galvano, the church ministered on the east side of the city of Rochester for a couple of decades. In 2010, HCF moved into 3495 Lake Ave. (Northside Rochester) and the church has seen consistent growth.

In 2013, HCF added to its pastoral staff Bro. Luis Diaz as Office Administrator. In 2015, HCF ordained Luis Diaz as Associate Pastor. Rev. Galvano and Pastor Diaz both had a desire to expand God’s Kingdom by planting another church.

As with many, the Covid-19 pandemic placed a pause in their desire to church plant. However, in the summer 2021, Bro. Tony Tumminelli called Rev. Galvano about a church that had members but did not have a lead pastor.

Their name was Christian Apostolic Church. This body of believers began in 1915 via the Pentecostal Movement. A Missionary from Brooklyn, NY, Sis. Giuseppina Zollo brought the full gospel to the east side of the city of Rochester. Prior to this, the Italian community was unfamiliar with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and as they experienced God’s wonders revival took place in the Italian community of Rochester.

By 1926, this revival led Christian Apostolic Church to purchase a building at 1259 N. Goodman St. For almost 100 years God has continued this church. However, a few years ago their last lead pastor passed away to be with the Lord. On the brink of closing its doors, Bro. Mark Mistretta and others persevered to continue opening the church doors.

Through Bro. Tony Tumminelli, Rev. Galvano and Pastor Lu were able to meet with Bro. Mark and visit the church. After developing a relationship with the brethren at Christian Apostolic Church and having discussions both churches agreed to come together as one body under the leadership of Pastor Luis Diaz.

On May 8th, 2022, Hope Christian Fellowship Eastside had its first service at 1259 N. Goodman St. God in His grace and sovereignty continues to build His church on the east side of Rochester. HCF Eastside is a place where neighbors are the church.