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Church of the Holy Apostles

An Episcopal parish in Chelsea known as a sanctuary for the early post-Stonewall gay rights movement and home to a massive soup kitchen serving millions of meals.

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Church of the Holy Apostles
holyapostlesnyc.org, website_hero_img_holyapostlesnyc.org

What is the Church of the Holy Apostles known for?

It is an Episcopal parish in Chelsea known for being an open, inclusive community and for its significance as one of New York City's first LGBT community centers, serving as a key meeting place for post-Stonewall gay rights groups between 1969 and 1974.

What are the hours for worship services?

Sunday worship service (Holy Eucharist) begins at 11 AM and is available both on-site and via livestream.

Does the church provide community services?

Yes, the Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen has served over 20 million meals since 1982. Hot meals are served to-go Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, and the food pantry is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 AM–11:00 AM and 1:30 PM–3:00 PM.

Is the building historically significant?

Yes, the building is a designated New York City landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was designed by architect Minard Lafever and constructed between 1845 and 1848.

Where is the church located?

The church is located at 296 Ninth Avenue at 28th Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Founded in 1844, the Church of the Holy Apostles is an Episcopal parish located at 296 Ninth Avenue in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. The historic building was designed by architect Minard Lafever and constructed between 1845 and 1848, with further expansions including a chancel added from 1853 to 1854 and transepts added in 1858. Beyond its architecture, the church holds immense social significance as a pioneer of inclusivity. Between 1969 and 1974, it served as one of the most critical meeting hubs for post-Stonewall organizations, including the Gay Activists Alliance and the Gay Liberation Front. This era effectively established the site as New York City's first LGBT community center, hosting early religious congregations such as the Church of the Beloved Disciple and the Metropolitan Community Church of New York. The parish continues its mission of service through the Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen. Since 1982, this initiative has provided over 20 million meals to those in need. This commitment to the marginalized is reflected in the church's status as an open community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds. Recognized for both its architectural and social contributions, the building is a designated New York City landmark. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, with an amendment added in 2020 to specifically honor its early association with LGBT political and religious organizations.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on Sunday at 11 AM if you wish to attend the Holy Eucharist worship service.
  • If you are interested in the soup kitchen's operations, hot meals are served to-go Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
  • The church faces Chelsea Park across 9th Avenue, making it a great spot to pair with a park stroll.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of Chelsea at the intersection of Ninth Avenue and 28th Street, the church stands as a historic anchor in a neighborhood now famous for its art galleries and LGBT culture.

Sources

Evidence and links