Beneath the Gothic Revival facade of Greenwood Baptist Church, stories echo from generations past. Greenwood Baptist Church began humbly. It started as a prayer meeting mission. Reverend Henry Bromley of Strong Place Baptist Church initiated it in 1856. The church officially became independent on September 28, 1858.
Look at the architecture of Greenwood Baptist Church. Adolph Leicht designed this historic structure. Erected in 1900, Greenwood Baptist Church stands at 461 6th Street in Brooklyn. Its corner location on 7th Avenue makes it prominent. In 2016, it earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. This honor recognized its architectural significance.
Before this grand building, Greenwood Baptist Church met elsewhere. In 1863, a brick chapel was erected on 15th Street. The chapel cost $11000. The congregation quickly outgrew it. By 1874, a new church was built on Fourth Avenue and 15th Street. The New York Times described it as a plain but commodious structure. It accommodated 900 persons.
At the end of the 19th century, the congregation planned to relocate. In 1900, Greenwood Baptist Church found its current home. The Gothic style is evident in its stone construction. Two gabled fronts feature large windows. These windows face the streets.
In 1914, Greenwood Baptist Church expanded. A stone tower was added. The main entrance is at its base. The tower stands at an angle. It features lancet openings and round windows. Terra cotta tiles and a stepped design adorn the top.
Music has always been vital at Greenwood Baptist Church. The church installed an organ in 1874. George Jardine & Son of New York City built it. The organ had two manuals and twenty stops. In 1915, a new organ replaced the old one. J.H. & C.S. Odell Company built the electro-pneumatic organ. Some parts of the old Jardine organ were repurposed.
Greenwood Baptist Church is more than a building. It is a community. It is affiliated with American Baptist Churches USA. It welcomes all to worship. Services are held every Sunday at 1030 AM.
Consider Reverend Willa Rose Johnson. She is the current pastor. She leads a diverse and caring community. Greenwood Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It is also a community and architectural beauty in Park Slope. Greenwood Baptist Church embraces its history while looking forward. It continues to serve its community. It welcomes new generations through its doors.