Our Rich Heritage

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), with roots in the Scottish reformation, was born on the American frontier in the early 1800's. Our witness and mission now reach throughout the world.

The Park Avenue Christian Church emerged out of a fervent desire to embrace a pure and simple understanding of church life as found in the New Testament.

On October 10, 1810, nine members of the Ebenezer Baptist Church of New York City withdrew from that congregation and formed a group similar to others emerging at that time -- "the Disciples of Christ."

A letter dated March 1, 1818 tells of the foundation for their community including hymn singing, the Lord's Supper, Scripture reading, prayers, exhortation by the elders, and words of praise.

The congregation settled at its present site on April 15, 1945, and took the name Park Avenue Christian Church.   PACC, both a Shalom and open and affirming congregation, is in ecumenical partnership with the United Church of Christ. It is considered one of the oldest continuously serving congregations of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

A long history of freedom, diversity and tradition has shaped Park Avenue Christian Church into a spirit-filled community of faith.

Our House of Worship

Originally built as the old South Dutch Reformed Church in 1911, the sanctuary was inspired by La Sainte Chapelle in Paris and was designed by Cram, Goodhue, and Ferguson Notable architectural features are: the buttress-supported structure, which allows for the absence of any steel girding; Tiffany stained glass windows; and the addition in 1982 of a 56 rank organ built by Walter Holtkamp.

In 1963, the church built an educational building for a Day School which continues to be a part of our mission and ministry today.

Our Beliefs and Practices

Disciples of Christ congregations, both among themselves and within each congregation, hold to a wide variety of beliefs. But there is uniformity in our commonly held belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God, and offers saving grace to all. Furthermore, we believe that all persons are God’s children.

(1) Open Communion. The Lords Supper, or Communion is celebrated in weekly worship.

(2) "Believer's Baptism" which is by immersion. Although Disciples practice baptism by immersion, other baptism traditions are honored among those who wish to become members by transfer. We joyfully (and frequently!) celebrate "Parent-Child Dedications" for infants and young children.

(3) Freedom of belief. Disciples are called together around one essential of faith: belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Persons are free to follow their consciences guided by the Bible, the Holy Spirit study and prayer, and are expected to extend that freedom to others.

(4) Belief in the oneness of the church. All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to seek opportunities for common witness and service.

(5) The ministry of believers. Both ordained clergy and lay persons lead in worship, service and spiritual growth.