StarfishandSeashells
I had always wanted to go here to hear the music. It was on my list as an "attraction" to check off. As fate would have it, my work put me in a hotel within walking distance. My two children and I set off on freezing cold walk on a Sunday morning with no preconceived notions. As we got closer, I noticed an elderly lady walking up to the church with her Bible in hand, and it struck me as a beautiful sight on a NYC street. As we entered, we were greeted by so many people who seemed genuinely happy, not just going through the motions. The building itself is an old theater and is gorgeous. There are theater seats, not pews. We arrived 15 minutes early and it was about 3/4 full, but we had no problem finding a seat. Even after the music service began, ushers were busy helping people locate seats, so a late arrival wouldn't feel awkward coming in.The service was spirit-filled from the music to the preaching to the fellowship among the congregation. I came to see "a NYC attraction" and left with one of the most powerful experiences I have had in a church. The level of connection among the people is something I have not seen in all the churches I've attended. And for that to take place in a city that never stops is kind of amazing.When fist timer attenders were asked to stand, those seated nearby reached out and patted them on the back. Touch is a powerful thing and, again, not something you see in NYC.The most beautiful thing about the church is the diversity. It gives hope for our nation to see a complete mixture of races from the choir to the pulpit to the congregation. Yes, they do take a moment to talk about the importance of giving, but churches do require money to keep going. I certainly didn't feel pressured. The entire offering was done very quickly.The service was two hours, but it felt like 30 minutes. It was the best two hours I've spent in a long time. My son said it was the best thing he's ever done in NYC, and coming from someone who has played a stage in Times Square, that's powerful.TIP: Don't take photos. To the members, this is not an attraction, but a place of worship. I did see one man tap a visitor on the shoulder and shake his head when the guy had his phone camera out.
453lindsayw
I have enjoyed the Brooklyn tabernacle choir's music for years, but to hear them in person was outstanding. The sound in that church is so full and beautiful. The choir sang four songsand each was amazing. The church itself is gorgeous. For such a large church, the people are very friendly and welcoming of visitors. A great place to worship!
Troy803
They title saids it all, if you are interested in going the only advice I got is go early the place fills up even when the weather is bad.
5floyds
We came to Brooklyn just to visit this place in person. What a service--spirit filled singing and the message from Pastor Tim was wonderful. A great experience. The ones who live here are lucky to have a place like this to worship.
744jaxp
Used to go frequently years ago. Still have a quality service. Music ministry at 3 pm service on Sundays
DebraJ685
I have been a member of this church for over 8 years. I now live in NC, but can't seem to stay away from Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Tabernacle. The members are kind, courteous and God fearing. The music is all powerful and ministers to my soul. I could not visit Brooklyn and not stop for a service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. It changed my life!!!
mcassel202
Wonderful inspirational message... went to a special gospel concert experience... everyone around us was friendly and genuine, just what you would want to find in a Christian worship setting
JesusDad
How Great is our God and how great is the Brooklyn Tabernacle choir as they praise our Lord Jesus. They certainly know how to make a joyful noise. The congregation is extremely friendly and the restrooms were spotless.
leonar743
I was in NYC for three weeks visiting and friend and wanted to have the "gospel" experience. My friend turned out to be hard to tie down and I was doing a lot of NYC by myself which wasWonderful but also I didn't know what I was doing. I did some googling one morning as I woke up early and wasn't sure where was best. I took a punt and got a cab to the early service at the tabernacle and my mind was blown. Yes as a tourist I got what I expected. the singing, the "praise be". But what I didn't expect was to feel uplifted, invited, welcomed and nurtured. This memory will stay with me forever. The sermon and music touched me on a personal level and I felt everyone in that room was as faulted and perfect as me. I never expected that. I was immediately greeted by warmSmiles, hand shakes and seated next to a lovely young woman my age who hugged me and welcomed me. The energy in that room was unbelievable and I wasn't observing as I expected. I was taking part. I loved this experience. I didn't know the songs but I sang along anyway (they have lyrics on screens and a great band and chorus) . I then walked across the brooklyn bridge and reflected on the message about gratitude and appreciated everthing I did that day so much more thanks to that service. Just go. Please experience this.
Boricua305
Who has 2 thumbs, and writes a review of going to church? This guy!Let's be perfectly honest here: there is a growing dissatisfaction with all things religious, particularly as folks become more aware of some of the really really stupid stuff that people do in the name of religion. But I'll promise you that even with that level of mistrust in all things religious, the experience at the Brooklyn Tabernacle is worth a visit.The location is safe, and near many subway stops. It's a madhouse once you get inside though. Services on Sundays at 9, 12 and 3, and they pack the place to the rafters (or the balconies in this case). Expect lots of standing, singing and hugging for the 2.25 hours you'll spend in service (that's not a typo... it really is at least a 2 hour commitment).The Pastor (Jim Cymbala) is a legend in his own right, and terrific at what he does. Don't come expecting some heavy handed preaching, but do come expecting to hear a message that may touch you that day.So with all of this positivity, why just the 4 star rating and not 5? The worst thing about religion is shame. Shame is a horrible way of making people do things, and when Pastor Cymbala spends 2 solid minutes telling you to "do what your heart says" in the context of giving money to the church... well that's not doing what my heart says. It's doing what you are shaming me into doing.P.S. I haven't even mentioned the choir, which is Grammy award winning, and truly something enjoyable. Come for the music, and stay for the love.
YS711
Always a great message that is Bible based. A little humor every once in a while as well :) Even though it's a huge church, the message is for all and I always walk away encouraged.
Steffer12
Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is world famous. Their music will make you raise your hands in worship. Make sure to come on a Sunday and listen to the sermon too!
lorim972
As tourists from Texas, we decided to attend what we believed to be a concert by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir on New Year's Eve. It turned out to be an actual church service, which was also great. The music by the famed choir was fantastic, although we would have liked more of it. The message by Pastor Tim was well done, topical, and held our interest even though it was quite lengthy. The members of the congregation were very friendly and welcoming, and their participation in the worship was enthusiastic and energetic! Hope to visit there again some day.
Marelisz
If you need from Jesus this is the place to worship. Wonderful atmosphere, beautiful church with wonderful music from the Grammy winner brooklyn tabernacle choir. Pastor cymbals with a message soo uplifting. The yearly Christmas show is amazing and free. If you need God this is a wonderful house of worship.
andrews2lawn
We were lucky enough to be in the city during their Christmas performance of "Christmas in the City". It was wonderful. Well worth the wait. We were told to get there atleast an hour early (we had a group of 18). We got there almost an hour and a half early and had plenty of time. Would suggest getting there at least 30 min. It was wonderful! After the play, we walked back to the city by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge!!!