Deep within the vibrant tapestry of New York City, the Church for All Nations stands as a testament to a rich and evolving history. The Church for All Nations began its life in 1887. It was originally built for the Catholic Apostolic Church. This group held a fervent belief in the imminent Second Coming. Designed by Francis H. Kimball, the church showcased a stunning Late Victorian Gothic style. Its deep red bricks and ornate terra-cotta ornamentation set it apart. The structure earned praise from architectural critic Montgomery Schuyler, who declared it “no more scholarly Gothic work in New York.”
The Catholic Apostolic Church held services at the Church for All Nations for many years. Two daily services were held as early as 1893. An interesting fact is that the Episcopalian priest Henry Ogden DuBois served as the church’s “Angel.” He balanced this role with his Episcopal duties until his death in 1949. As time marched on, the congregation dwindled. Rather than see the church repurposed for secular use, the remaining members made a generous decision. In 1995, they donated the building to the Lutheran Life’s Journey Ministries. This marked a new chapter for the Church for All Nations. It was rededicated in 1997. The building itself earned landmark status in 2001, under its original name, “Catholic Apostolic Church.” The Church for All Nations continued its mission until 2015 when it held its last service at the 57th Street location.
Today, the congregation, now known as All Nations Lutheran Church, continues to worship. They have found a new home in a rehearsal studio on West 54th Street. The original building at 417 West 57th Street was renamed Our Saviour New York in 2018. This architectural gem remains a symbol of resilience and adaptation. It serves as a reminder that even amidst the ever-changing landscape of a city like New York, the spirit of faith and community can find new ways to flourish. The Church for All Nations stands as a quiet testament to the enduring power of faith and community in the heart of a bustling metropolis.