“Our ears, arms, and hearts are always open!” This welcoming statement reflects the spirit of St. Michael’s Church. This Episcopal church has been worshiping and serving the community since 1807.
St. Michael’s Church stands at the corner of 99th Street and Amsterdam Avenue in Manhattan. It is an inclusive and diverse parish. Here, vibrant parish life thrives both in person and online.
St. Michael’s Church extends an invitation to explore its wonderful community. It welcomes all to become part of a people committed to exploration. With hundreds of years of history on the Upper West Side, St. Michael’s isn’t stuck in the past. That history fuels its journey. The members seek what God would have them do and be in the world. They strive to be part of making the world as God would have it be. St. Michael’s feeds and nurtures all who come in both body and soul.
At St. Michael’s Church, you will find a little of everybody. Children and elders are all welcome. Gay and straight people are welcome. Rich and poor are all welcome. People of different colors and backgrounds worship together here.
Worship at St. Michael’s takes many forms. It ranges from formal Episcopal services with a twist to casual interactive prayer. They celebrate with feasts and parties and fun. They also pray in candlelit darkness and quiet. Music is all over the map and part of everything they do. They study the stories and teachings of scripture and tradition. They seek truth for issues of justice and relationships. They find healing in God’s love and welcome and share it with others.
The current church building is the third on this site. Architect Robert W. Gibson designed it. It was completed in 1891. The church is made of Indiana limestone. Its style is Northern Italian Renaissance or Romanesque-Byzantine. At the time, the style was a daring departure in church architecture. Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company enhanced the new Church with chancel decorations. The Church was dedicated on December 16, 1891.
Charles Merry and Robert W. Gibson also designed the Parish House. It matches the style of the church. It was completed in 1902. This building was designed for community service. Originally, it contained facilities for a school, laundry, and kitchen.
St. Michael’s Church has the privilege of worshiping in an exquisitely beautiful church building. The art and architecture inspire worship of God. It draws the community together. St. Michael’s is a steward of this extraordinary building. It ensures that it continues to inspire all who come through its doors. The Tiffany stained glass is particularly noteworthy.