Background

Bethel Gospel Assembly: A Harlem Sanctuary

Experience the vibrant spirit and rich history of Harlem's Bethel Gospel Assembly, a beacon of faith and community since 1917.

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Bethel Gospel Assembly, located in the heart of Harlem, has been a spiritual cornerstone since 1917. Born from an act of racial discrimination, it has grown into a welcoming church known for its vibrant gospel music, community outreach, and commitment to global missions.

A brief summary to Bethel Gospel Assembly

Local tips

  • Arrive early for Sunday services to secure a good seat, as the church is very popular.
  • Check the church's website or call ahead for information on special events, concerts, and service schedules.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully when attending services.
  • Consider exploring the surrounding Harlem neighborhood to experience its rich culture and history.
  • Be prepared for a moving experience with lots of singing, dancing and preaching.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Bethel Gospel Assembly is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 train to 125th Street. From there, walk downtown (south) and across to Madison Avenue and 120th Street. Alternatively, take the M1, M101, M103, or M116 bus to the vicinity of 120th Street and Madison Avenue. The fare for subways and local buses is $2.90 per ride.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Harlem, walking to Bethel Gospel Assembly is a great option. The church is located at 2-26 E 120th Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenues. From the intersection of 125th Street and Lenox Avenue, walk south on Lenox Avenue to 120th Street, then turn east. The walk is approximately 5 blocks and should take about 10-15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Manhattan. A short trip from the 125th Street subway station to Bethel Gospel Assembly will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

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Discover more about Bethel Gospel Assembly

Bethel Gospel Assembly stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community in the heart of Harlem. Founded in 1917, its origins are rooted in a painful act of racial discrimination when two young Black women were denied membership in a downtown church because of their race. This rejection led to the formation of a small Bible study group that blossomed into the Bethel Gospel Assembly. From its humble beginnings in a rented room, Bethel has grown into a prominent church with a diverse congregation of around 1,200 members. The church's mission is to reach the world, making disciples locally and globally through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It fulfills this mission through various ministries and programs that serve the Harlem community and beyond. Visitors to Bethel Gospel Assembly can expect an uplifting and inspiring experience. The services are known for their passionate preaching, dynamic gospel music, and inclusive atmosphere. The church also hosts various community events, concerts, and educational programs throughout the year. Bethel Gospel Assembly embodies the spirit of community and faith, making it a must-visit cultural landmark in Harlem. The church's commitment extends globally with daughter churches in South Africa, Atlanta, and Florida. It also supports missionaries in Central and West Africa, particularly those reaching out to the Baka people. Bethel Gospel Assembly purchased the former James Fennimore Cooper Junior High School in Harlem in 1982.

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