Home Destinations USA New York New York City Sights Abyssinian Baptist Church

Abyssinian Baptist Church Review

Read our New York City sights reviews. Or post your own.

Abyssinian Baptist Church

  • Address: 132 Odell Clark Pl., W. 138th St., between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd., 7th Ave., and Malcolm X Blvd., Lenox Ave./6th Ave., Harlem, New York, NY, 10030 | Map It
  • Phone: 212/862-7474
  • www.abyssinian.org

Fodor's Review:

This 1923 Gothic-style church holds one of Harlem's richest legacies, dating to 1808 when a group of parishioners defected from the segregated First Baptist Church of New York City and established the first African-American Baptist church in New York State. Among its legendary pastors was Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a powerful orator and civil rights leader and the first black U.S. congressman. Today sermons by pastor Calvin Butts III are fiery and the seven choirs are excellent. Because of its services' popularity, the church maintains separate lines for parishioners and tourists. Dress your best, and get there early on Sunday holidays.

  • Open: Sun. services at 9 and 11
  • Subway: 2, 3 to 135th St.
Find more sights in New York City »

Member Reviews and Ratings

Add your own review

Get Advice From Other Travelers

Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip



Get the Fodor's Newsletter

For more travel ideas, tips, and deals, sign up for the Fodor's newsletter here. Read the current issue. Browse previous issues.




Copyright © 2009 Fodor's Travel, a division of Random House, Inc.