Park Slope United Methodist Church

Amidst the brownstones of Park Slope, a beacon of faith and activism stands tall. This is the Park Slope United Methodist Church. It’s a place where history whispers from the stained-glass windows and echoes in the hymns sung within its walls. The Park Slope United Methodist Church wasn’t always a champion of social justice. Its story begins in 1884 as the Sixth Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church. It was built during a Brooklyn building boom following the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge. The original structure, a modest brick building, still exists today as the Camp Friendship building. The congregation thrived in the late 1880s, but shifting demographics and economic downturns, including the Panic of 1893, presented challenges. The current building wasn’t completed until 1915. This Gothic-style structure, with its crenelated tower, became a symbol of resilience. In 1930, it merged with the 18th Street Methodist Episcopal Church. This merger resulted in the name change to Park Slope Methodist Church. Interestingly, the 18th Street church had a unique connection to Jacob Riis. The renowned photojournalist reportedly attended services there in the 1890s and was inspired to continue his work documenting the lives of New York City’s immigrant poor. The Park Slope United Methodist Church really found its voice in the 1970s. Under the leadership of Rev. Finley Schaef, it embraced a new socially-minded ethos, opening its doors to diverse community groups and becoming a hub for local activism. The church’s creed was revised to include the phrase “straight and gay,” reflecting its commitment to inclusivity. The church continued to evolve, playing a key role in local LGBTQ+ activism in the 1980s and 1990s. It hosted town halls, collaborated with LGBTQ+ organizations, and became a safe space for the community. Even today, the Park Slope United Methodist Church remains a vital community hub, continuing its legacy of social justice and inclusivity. It participates in events like the NYC Pride March and the Brooklyn Pride festival. It continues to adapt to the changing needs of its community, offering everything from traditional Sunday services to innovative bible studies and a Sunday Dinner Program. The church continues to work for justice, peace, and community building.