How about a church with a past entwined with Rockefellers? That’s Central Presbyterian Church. This isn’t just any church. It is a piece of New York history. Central Presbyterian Church has moved several times to different locations.
Central Presbyterian Church was founded in 1821 by William Patton. He was an abolitionist. The church started small in a schoolroom on Mulberry Street. It quickly grew. It became influential in New York City.
Let’s talk about its current building. John D. Rockefeller Jr. funded it. It was originally built for Park Avenue Baptist Church in 1922. Funny enough the Baptist congregation needed more space shortly after that. Rockefeller then built Riverside Church. Central Presbyterian Church purchased the Park Avenue Baptist building in 1929. The first service was held there on September 22 1929. It was just before the stock market crash.
The architecture is neo-Gothic. Henry C. Pelton designed it. He was associated with Allen & Collens. The building looks like one big church. It cleverly hides seven stories of classrooms and offices. The exterior is made of West Townsend granite and Indiana limestone.
Look at the stained-glass windows. The west window features John Milton and others. Nicola D’Ascenzo created the east window. It depicts the Sermon on the Mount.
Central Presbyterian Church has a rich musical history. The original organ was a Hook & Hastings. It was later replaced with a Möller organ. Jean Langlais made his U.S. debut here in 1952. The church also had a carillon of 53 bells. They were moved to Riverside Church.
In the 1970s Central Presbyterian Church faced challenges. There was talk of selling it. Thankfully it didn’t happen. The church experienced a renewal starting in 2006. It is now a culturally diverse congregation.
Take a moment to appreciate Central Presbyterian Church. It is a testament to faith. It is a story of renewal and stunning architecture. From its humble beginnings to its present-day vibrancy Central Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon of hope.