Arch Street Presbyterian Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Arch Street Presbyterian Church
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Arch Street Presbyterian Church, February 2010
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 Location in Philadelphia
Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1726-1732 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1855 |
| Architect | Hoxie & Button |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000717 |
| Added to NRHP | May 27, 1971 |
The Arch Street Presbyterian Church is an old and beautiful church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. You can find it on Arch Street, right between the two tall Comcast skyscrapers. This church was built in 1855. It was designed by architects Hoxie & Button. The building looks like ancient Greek and Roman temples. It has a grand entrance with four tall columns and a round, decorated ceiling inside.
This historic church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This means it's a special building recognized for its history and architecture.
Church History
The 1800s and 1900s
The Arch Street Presbyterian Church opened its doors in 1855. For many years, it was a very important church in downtown Philadelphia. Its Greek Revival style looks very different from the modern skyscrapers around it. Inside, the church has fancy columns, a domed ceiling, and a huge organ.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the church was known for its traditional views. The head pastor at that time, Rev. Clarence E. Macartney, even had public discussions with other famous preachers. A talented musician named Vincent Persichetti was the organist and choir director from 1932 to 1948.
Later in the 1900s, fewer people attended the church. Many members had moved out of the city center.
The 2000s and Today
By the early 2000s, only a few dozen people were regularly attending the church. But on January 28, 2007, the church was full! Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla visited and attended a service during their trip to the U.S.
In 2008, the leaders of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in Philadelphia decided to help the church grow again. They asked Rev. William Golderer to lead this effort. Now, the church has a team of pastors. This team includes Rev. Golderer, Rev. Carla A. Jones Brown, Rev. David Norse, Rev. Anne Park, and Rev. Mike Pulsifer.
The church also has a Minister of Music, Dr. J. Donald Dumpson. He brings many different music styles to the church, like classical, traditional, folk, and gospel.
Today, the church is growing again with over 100 members. People from many different backgrounds attend. The church focuses on being welcoming and inclusive. They have a Sunday School for kids during worship services. They also have outreach activities to help the community.
Other programs include a "Good Book Club" for Bible study and "Church in the Alehouse," where people meet in a local pub to talk about faith. The church also hosts the Arch Street Preschool, which is a weekday school for young children. The church's goal is to welcome everyone, whether they are new to faith or want to connect more deeply with God and others.
Gallery
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Interior, c. 1861.
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Looking east from 19th Street, with the Comcast Center towering over the church.
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See also
In Spanish: Iglesia Presbiteriana de Arch Street para niños
