Two centuries of history reside within these walls. The Lutheran Church of Saint John stands as a testament to faith and community in Greenwich Village.
St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church has been a presence on Christopher Street since 1855. German immigrants established a community here. This area existed until the end of World War I.
The building itself predates the Lutheran congregation. It was initially built in 1821-22. The Federal-style structure served as the Eighth Presbyterian Church. Its domed cupola makes it one of the oldest religious buildings in Greenwich Village.
In 1842, St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church acquired the property. They worshipped here until 1855. Then the German Lutherans took ownership. In 1858, they purchased the property for $13,000.
The church’s appearance evolved over time. Victorian features were added in 1886. Berg & Clark oversaw the changes. The pediment received a German inscription. It read “Deutsche Evangelish-Lutherische St. Johannes Kirche.”
St. John’s is part of the Greenwich Village Historic District. The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission protects it.
Rev. August Held founded St. John’s. He arrived after leaving St. Mark’s in the East Village. The early years were challenging. Yet, the congregation persevered. They expanded operations.
Today, St. John’s is a diverse community. It embraces the artistic spirit of the West Village. It welcomes the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lutheran leaders started planning a church in 1797. John Christopher Hartwick began seminary classes. These were held at John Christopher Kunze’s parsonage. This parsonage stood on the site of St. John’s. Kunze taught young men for the ministry. He was a professor at Columbia University and pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church. These classes continued until 1940. The seminary then moved to Oneonta.
In 1961, Austin Organs, Inc. installed a new organ. Several imported ranks were included. The existing organ cases remained. However, grill cloth replaced the facade pipes.
M.P. Mölle contracted to rebuild the 1903 Hilgreen Lane organ in 1940. It received electro-pneumatic action. The pipes were cleaned and revoiced.
Since its founding, St. John’s has undergone many transformations. From German-speaking roots to a diverse modern congregation, it adapted to the changing times. This sanctuary has witnessed much. It remains a vibrant part of Greenwich Village. It continues to evolve. It honors its past. It embraces the future.