Nestled on West 112th Street stands the Seventh Church of Christ Scientist. It is a unique blend of architectural history and spiritual dedication. Today, we’ll explore the story of this Upper West Side sanctuary.
The original Seventh Church of Christ Scientist edifice was built in 1919. Griffin & Wynkoop designed it in the Greek Revival style. The building featured a windowless facade adorned with pilasters. Three doors welcomed worshippers into its serene interior.
But time brings change. In 1990, a new structure rose. This present edifice is the newest “Skyscraper Church” in New York City. Kenneth Wood designed it with a modern vision. The church incorporates a large clear-glass oculus. This allows natural light to flood the Reading Room. It spans two levels. Beyond this radiant space lie the serene auditorium and Sunday School rooms. Adjacent to the Seventh Church of Christ Scientist, a 22-story apartment tower stands.
Music plays a vital role in the church’s worship. In 1920, the W.W. Kimball Co. of Chicago installed a four-manual organ. This organ enriched services for decades. Later, Austin Organs Inc. built a new organ in 1990. Some pipes from the previous Kimball organ were retained and re-voiced. The non-speaking pipe facade is painted white. It harmonizes with the decor and adds visual interest.
The Austin organ is installed above and behind the readers’ rostrum. This allows optimal sound into the church auditorium. A new two-manual stop-key console sits on the main floor. It is to the left of the rostrum.
The Seventh Church of Christ Scientist extends a warm welcome. It supports the Morningside Heights community. Its healing services reach New York City and the world. You can visit the Reading Room. It is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Sunday Church Service is from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Wednesday Testimony Meeting is from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The Seventh Church of Christ Scientist also provides Sunday School. It welcomes children ages 6 up to 20.
Getting here is straightforward. The Cathedral Parkway / 110th St subway stop is close. The 1 train stops there. You can also take the 2 or 3 express train and switch at 96th street to the 1 train. By bus, several options are available. Parking is available at Manhattan Parking Group. Champion Parking is also nearby.
The Seventh Church of Christ Scientist stands as a testament to faith. It embraces community and architectural evolution. Its doors are open. Its welcoming spirit endures. The Seventh Church of Christ Scientist continues to serve and inspire.