Beneath the Vermont marble exterior of Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church lies a story of transformation. The Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church stands here on West 123rd Street. But its history began long before it became Greater Metropolitan in 1985.
Originally, this edifice was built as the German-American St. Paul Lutheran Church of Harlem. The Gothic church was erected in 1897-98. Architects Ernest W. Schneider and Harry Herter designed it.
In 1933, St. Paul’s merged. It moved to Grace Lutheran Church on West 71st Street. The building was then sold to the Twelfth Church of Christ, Scientist.
The Christian Scientists later relocated in 1985. They moved to Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard. That’s when Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church acquired the building. So the Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church is actually the third congregation to call this place home.
Inside Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church, there was once a magnificent organ. Müller & Abel built it in 1897 for St. Paul German-American Lutheran Church. This organ had tubular-pneumatic action. It featured two manuals, 29 stops, and 35 ranks. Imagine the sounds that once filled this space. Sixteen-foot double open diapasons resonated. Eight-foot trumpets rang out. The Great Organ had 61 notes. The Swell Organ also had 61 notes. The Pedal Organ had 30 notes. The status of the organ is unknown as of 2008.
Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church stands as a testament to change. It is a place where different communities have converged. It shows how a building can evolve with its congregation. The Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church embraces its history. It welcomes all who seek spiritual solace within its walls.
So take a moment to appreciate the architectural details. Think about the echoes of past congregations. Reflect on the enduring spirit of faith. This is Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church. Its story is etched in every stone and steeple.