Exploring the Unique and Unusual Churches in Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn, New York is known for its diverse and vibrant culture, and this is reflected in its architecture, including its churches. While there are many beautiful and historic churches in Brooklyn, there are also some that stand out for their unique and unusual features. As an expert on Brooklyn's architecture, I have had the opportunity to explore these churches and learn about their fascinating histories. In this article, I will take you on a journey through some of the most unique and unusual churches in Brooklyn, NY.

The Cathedral Basilica of St.

James

Located in Downtown Brooklyn, the Cathedral Basilica of St. James is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. It was built in 1853 and is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn. What makes this church unique is its striking exterior, which features intricate stone carvings and a towering spire that can be seen from miles away. But it's not just the exterior that sets this church apart.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking interior with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate decorations. The cathedral also houses a rare collection of religious relics, including a piece of the True Cross and a fragment of the Veil of Our Lady. The Cathedral Basilica of St. James is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction in Brooklyn. It has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including "The Godfather" and "Law & Order."

The Greenpoint Reformed Church

The Greenpoint Reformed Church may not be as grand as some of the other churches on this list, but it has a unique history that sets it apart.

Built in 1867, this church was originally a Dutch Reformed Church, but it has since been converted into a non-denominational community center. What makes this church unusual is its striking green exterior, which is a result of the copper roof oxidizing over time. This gives the church a distinctive appearance that stands out among the other buildings in the neighborhood. The church also has a beautiful stained glass window depicting the biblical story of Noah's Ark. Today, the Greenpoint Reformed Church hosts various community events and programs, including a weekly farmers market and a free meal program for those in need. It is a testament to the church's commitment to serving its community.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle

The Brooklyn Tabernacle may not look unusual from the outside, but it has a unique story that makes it stand out.

This church was originally built in 1918 as a theater and was later converted into a church in 1973. What makes this church special is its diverse congregation, which includes people from all walks of life and different backgrounds. The Brooklyn Tabernacle is known for its vibrant worship services, which feature a Grammy Award-winning choir and powerful sermons from Pastor Jim Cymbala. The church also has an active outreach program, providing food, clothing, and other resources to those in need in the community. But what truly sets this church apart is its prayer ministry. The Brooklyn Tabernacle has a dedicated team of volunteers who pray for the needs of individuals and families from all over the world. This ministry has had a profound impact on many lives and has made the Brooklyn Tabernacle a beacon of hope for many.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord is one of the most unique and unusual churches in Brooklyn.

Built in 1922, this church is a stunning example of Russian Revival architecture, with its onion-shaped domes and intricate details. But what makes this church truly special is its history. It was originally built by Russian immigrants who fled their country during the Bolshevik Revolution. The church served as a place of worship and a community center for these immigrants, providing them with a sense of home and belonging in a new country. Today, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord continues to serve as a place of worship for the Russian Orthodox community in Brooklyn. It also hosts various cultural events and festivals, showcasing the rich traditions and heritage of the Russian people.

The Church of St.

Luke and St. Matthew

The Church of St. Matthew may not look unusual from the outside, but it has a unique feature that sets it apart from other churches in Brooklyn. This church was built in 1891 and is known for its stunning stained glass windows, which were designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Tiffany was a renowned artist and designer who is best known for his work in stained glass.

The windows at the Church of St. Matthew are some of his earliest works and are considered to be some of the finest examples of Tiffany's artistry. But it's not just the windows that make this church special. The Church of St. Matthew is also known for its commitment to social justice and community outreach.

It hosts various programs and initiatives to support those in need in the community, making it a true beacon of hope in Brooklyn.

The First Unitarian Congregational Society

The First Unitarian Congregational Society may not be as well-known as some of the other churches on this list, but it has a unique history that makes it worth a visit. Built in 1844, this church was originally a Unitarian church, but it has since become a non-denominational community center. What makes this church unusual is its striking octagonal shape, which was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. The interior of the church is just as impressive, with its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. The First Unitarian Congregational Society is not only a place of worship but also a hub for community events and programs. It hosts various concerts, lectures, and workshops, making it a popular gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Conclusion

Brooklyn, NY is home to many unique and unusual churches that reflect the diverse and vibrant culture of the borough.

From stunning Gothic Revival cathedrals to community centers housed in converted churches, each of these churches has its own story to tell. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or simply looking for a place to worship, these churches in Brooklyn are definitely worth a visit. They are not only beautiful and unique but also serve as important landmarks in the community. So next time you're in Brooklyn, be sure to check out these one-of-a-kind churches.