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.
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