A sanctuary of soaring spires and stained glass. That’s the Park Avenue Church of Christ. Its story begins not on Park Avenue but in 1810. Nine souls yearning for a simpler faith met around a kitchen table. They sought a pure understanding of Christianity as reflected in the New Testament. This group became the seed of the Park Avenue Church of Christ.
Fast forward to 1911. The South Dutch Reformed Church commissioned the architectural firm Cram Goodhue & Ferguson. Their design for the Park Avenue sanctuary was inspired by La Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. The result is a stunning Gothic Revival structure. Its 70-foot spire points heavenward a testament to faith. The building stands strong without steel girding thanks to its clever buttress design.
But the building’s beauty goes beyond its structure. Look closer. The east stained glass window a masterpiece by Louis Comfort Tiffany himself. This incredible window was originally in the church’s previous location. Other stained glass within the church is the work of Mary Elizabeth Tillinghast. A talented artist and businesswoman who once worked for Tiffany.
In 1945 the Central Christian Church purchased the building. It was then renamed the Park Avenue Christian Church. The church’s commitment to social justice is remarkable. It began with the abolition of slavery and continues today. The Park Avenue Church of Christ embraces diversity. It actively works to deconstruct systems of oppression. This dedication to inclusivity is a central part of its identity.
The Park Avenue Church of Christ is not alone in its building. It shares its space with the Temple of Universal Judaism. This interfaith partnership fosters understanding and cooperation. They even co-sponsor events celebrating figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. A beautiful example of interfaith harmony.
Today the Park Avenue Church of Christ is a vibrant community. It is both a Disciples of Christ and United Church of Christ congregation. In 2016 they appointed Rev Kaji Douša as their Senior Pastor. She was the first woman and the first Black woman to hold this position a landmark achievement. The church continues to bloom serving its community and upholding its rich history. It is a true landmark both architecturally and spiritually. A beacon of faith and compassion on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.