Church of the Resurrection

Nestled amidst the vibrant tapestry of Manhattan’s Upper East Side stands the Church of the Resurrection. Have you ever wondered about the stories these walls could tell? The Church of the Resurrection isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a time capsule, the oldest church structure on the Upper East Side. Its history stretches back to 1868, when it was founded as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A group of Episcopalians, led by Reverend James Tuttle Smith, envisioned a sanctuary. Smith, chaplain of the nearby 7th New York Militia armory, became the church’s first rector. The Church of the Resurrection’s very stones whisper tales of renowned architect James Renwick Jr. He designed this church in 1869, showcasing his signature Gothic Revival style. Renwick’s legacy includes iconic structures like Grace Church in Manhattan, the Smithsonian Institution, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Interestingly, due to financial constraints, his full vision for the Church of the Resurrection wasn’t realized. Look closely at the Great Rood. This masterpiece was carved in 1940 by the talented Dutch sculptor Joep Nicolas. Since 1920, the Church of the Resurrection has embraced Anglo-Catholic traditions in its worship and doctrines. The church offers a rich tapestry of services, including Solemn Mass on Sunday mornings. The English Missal guides the service, incorporating full ceremonial elements, a choir, hymns, and a choral Mass setting. During the summer months, a Sung Mass takes the place of the regular Solemn Mass, featuring hymns and congregational singing. For a quieter experience, Low Mass is offered at 8:30 am on Sundays and at scheduled times throughout the week. The Church of the Resurrection’s heart beats with its music. Professional singers grace the choir, performing every Sunday and on major feast days. The melodies fill the air, drawing from the 1940 Hymnal, the New English Hymnal, and other cherished sources. Small orchestras and early music groups also find a home here, adding to the vibrant cultural scene. Beyond the sanctuary’s walls, the Church of the Resurrection extends its embrace. The Resurrection Episcopal Day School, a Montessori early childhood development program, nurtures young minds within the parish building. Children aged three through six engage in a range of activities, from the Montessori curriculum to arts, creative movement, and even a summer camp. So, the next time you find yourself on the Upper East Side, take a moment to pause before the Church of the Resurrection. Let the whispers of history and faith wash over you. You are standing before more than just a building. You are standing before a living story, etched in stone and song.