Church of the Ascension

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 30 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Church of the Ascension is a historic landmark located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. There are several reasons why a tourist might want to visit this church. First, the church's architecture is stunning. The Gothic Revival style building features intricate stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and impressive stonework. It's a beautiful example of 19th-century ecclesiastical design. Second, the church has a rich history. It was founded in 1827 and has served as a place of worship for many notable figures, including composer Samuel Barber and artist Keith Haring. It was also the site of the first performance of Benjamin Britten's War Requiem in the United States. Finally, the church is known for its excellent music program. It hosts regular concerts and recitals featuring world-renowned musicians, and its choir is highly regarded for its performances of traditional and contemporary sacred music. Overall, the Church of the Ascension is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, history, or music, and it's a unique and memorable stop on any New York City itinerary.

12 W 11th St, New York, NY 10011 Get Directions





Church of the Ascension Videos

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 5, 2021 The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: Isaiah 35: 4-7a Psalm 146 James 2: 1-17 Mark 7: 24-37 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp18_RCL.html

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 29, 2021 The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: Deuteronomy 4: 1-2, 6-9 Psalm 15 James 1: 17-27 Mark 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp17_RCL.html

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: Joshua 24: 1-2a,14-18 Psalm 34: 15-22 Ephesians 6: 10-20 John 6: 56-69 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp16_RCL.html

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, August 15, 2021 The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: Proverbs 9: 1-6 Psalm 34: 9-14 Ephesians 5: 15-20 John 6: 51-58 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp15_RCL.html

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 8, 2021 The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: 1 Kings 19: 4-8 Psalm 34: 1-8 Ephesians 4: 25 - 5 :2 John 6: 35, 41-51 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp14_RCL.html

Church of the Ascension Liturgy of the Word Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 1, 2021 The Rev. Elizabeth G. Maxwell, Rector The Rev. Edwin Chinery, Associate Rector Dennis Keene, D.M.A., Organist & Choirmaster https://ascensionnyc.org/ info@ascensionnyc.org Lessons: Exodus 16: 2-4,9-15 Psalm 78: 23-29 Ephesians 4: 1-16 John 6: 24-35 Read them here: http://lectionarypage.net/YearB_RCL/Pentecost/BProp13_RCL.html

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Church of the Ascension News

Organist Christopher Houlihan to Release New Album 'FIRST AND LAST' on Azica

On Friday, February 3, 2023, organist Christopher Houlihan, described as 'the next big organ talent' by the Los Angeles Times, will release his next solo album, First and Last, on Azica Records. The album features César Franck's 'Grande Pièce Symphonique,' Op. 17, from Six pièces d'orgue (1860-62) and Louis Vierne's Symphonie No. 6, op. 39 (1930).

Young People's Chorus Of New York City Joins Voices Of Ascension In Presentation Of Paola Prestini's THE GLASS BOX

The world-renowned Young People's Chorus of New York City (YPC), led by Founder and Artistic Director Francisco J. Núñez, will join fellow Grammy nominee Voices of Ascension, under the direction of Artistic Director and Conductor Dennis Keene, to present Paola Prestini's The Glass Box.

Minnesota Orchestra Announces 2022-23 Season Featuring Kristin Chenoweth, Movies & Music Series and More

The Minnesota Orchestra today unveiled plans for 2022-23, a wide-ranging season that pairs the music of Beethoven, Brahms and Mendelssohn alongside newer compositions by Alberga, Mazzoli and Montgomery; spotlights masterpieces of the piano repertoire, and more.

Voices Of Ascension Presents Bach's Mass In B Minor in April

The Grammy-nominated professional ensemble Voices of Ascension, conducted by Artistic Director Dennis Keene, will present Bach’s Mass in B minor on April 28, 2022 at 7:30 PM at the Church of the Ascension on West Tenth Street and Fifth Avenue in Greenwich Village.

Lorelei Ensemble Announces THIS TYRANT, LOVE Tour

From March 18-27, 2022, the groundbreaking Lorelei Ensemble, led by Artistic Director Beth Willer, embarks on a tour of This Tyrant, Love, marking the ensemble's triumphant return to live performance.

Lorelei Ensemble Announces Tour of THIS TYRANT, LOVE

From March 18-27, 2022, the groundbreaking Lorelei Ensemble, led by Artistic Director Beth Willer, embarks on a tour of This Tyrant, Love, marking the ensemble's triumphant return to live performance.

Voices of Ascension to Present Paola Prestini's THE GLASS BOX

Voices of Ascension, under the direction of Artistic Director and Conductor Dennis Keene, will present Paola Prestini’s The Glass Box with the Young People’s Chorus of New York City, led by Artistic Director Francisco J. Núñez, on January 27, 2022 at the Church of the Ascension.

Arizona Masterworks Chorale Celebrates A NEW ENGLAND CHRISTMAS, December 18 & 19

Arizona Masterworks Chorale creates this iconic New England setting with inspirational music to help you celebrate the holidays. Join us for this delightful Christmas program which includes such pieces as Sleep Holy Child by Thomas Pavlechko, Still, Still, Still by Norman Luboff, and the medley Silent Night/O Beautiful by Phoenix composer Michael McCabe.

Arizona Masterworks Chorale Announces 2021-22 Season

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David Schrader to Play Organ Works By Frank Ferko And Leo Sowerby New Album Out in July

Versatile Chicago keyboard artist David Schrader, heard on more than two dozen Cedille Records albums, performs 20th- and 21st-century solo organ works by Frank Ferko and Leo Sowerby, prolific composers known for their organ mastery and strongly associated with the city of Chicago, on a new album due July 9, 2021, on Cedille Records.

2021 Arizona Bach Festival Announced

The Arizona Bach Festival celebrates its 12th anniversary season of presenting renowned artists performing the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. The 2021 Festival will be held virtually on YouTube with a three-concert Festival, February 21, February 28 and March 7, 2021. All concerts will begin at 3:00 pm MST/5:00 EST.

Voices of Ascension Announces 2020-2021 Season of Virtual Events to Celebrate 30th Anniversary

Voices of Ascension, New York City's Grammy-nominated professional choral organization, will celebrate its 30th anniversary season in 2020-2021 with a series of monthly musical events online.

Phoenix Chorale Appoints Assistant Conductor

The Phoenix Chorale announces the appointment of Tom Peterson as Assistant Conductor & Outreach Coordinator starting January 2020. Peterson succeeds Kevin Kriegel, who served as the Chorale's Assistant Conductor from 2014 to 2019.

Arizona Bach Festival Announces Concerts and Artists for 2020

The acclaimed Arizona Bach Festival celebrates its 11th anniversary season January 26 through February 9, 2019, bringing internationally renowned artists to perform Johann Sebastian Bach's great masterpieces in Phoenix area venues.

Special Programming Announced For Open House Chicago

The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) today released the list of special programs for Open House Chicago 2019a?"now in its ninth year and one of the largest architecture festivals in the world. This free two-day public event, taking place Saturday-Sunday, October 19-20, offers behind-the-scenes access to almost 350 sites in 38 neighborhoods, many rarely open to the public, including repurposed mansions, stunning skyscrapers, opulent theaters, exclusive private clubs, industrial facilities, cutting-edge offices and breathtaking sacred spaces. In addition to free access, Open House Chicago offers activities at various sites all weekend long, including cultural performances, kid-friendly activities, and more.


Church of the Ascension Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Church of the Ascension

The closest subway stops to Church of the Ascension at 12 W 11th St are:

1. Union Square - 14th St (4/5/6, L, N/Q/R/W): This station is just a short walk away from the church. It offers multiple subway lines, making it a convenient option for getting around the city.

2. 8th St - NYU (R/W): Another nearby option, this station is located at 8th Street and Broadway. It's a great choice if you're coming from the downtown area.

As for recommendations, Union Square is a vibrant neighborhood with plenty to offer. After visiting the church, you can explore the nearby Union Square Park, which often hosts farmers markets, art installations, and live performances. There are also many shops and restaurants in the area, including the famous Strand Bookstore, where you can browse through a vast collection of new and used books.

For up-to-date subway information, I recommend checking the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/. They provide real-time service updates, maps, and other useful resources to help you navigate the subway system efficiently.

Enjoy your visit to Church of the Ascension and have a fantastic time exploring New York City!


What's the best way to get to Church of the Ascension by bus?

The closest NYC bus stops to Church of the Ascension at 12 W 11th St are:

1. 5th Ave/W 11 St: This bus stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, and M55 buses. You can check for updates on these bus routes [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

2. 6th Ave/W 11 St: This bus stop is served by the M5, M7, and M55 buses. You can check for updates on these bus routes [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

Please note that bus routes and schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at Church of the Ascension!


How much time should I plan to spend at Church of the Ascension?

The ideal length of time to plan to spend at Church of the Ascension in New York City depends on your interests and schedule. If you're interested in exploring the church's stunning architecture and historical significance, you can typically spend around 30 minutes to an hour there. This allows you to admire the beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and experience the peaceful ambiance of the church.

However, if you're planning to attend a religious service or participate in a special event, you may want to allocate more time accordingly. It's always a good idea to check the church's schedule in advance to see if there are any specific activities or services you'd like to attend.

Remember, New York City has a plethora of attractions and activities to offer, so it's important to plan your time wisely to make the most of your visit.


Can I bring food and drinks into Church of the Ascension?

Church of the Ascension, located in New York City, is primarily a place of worship and does not typically have a food or drink policy for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of the sacred space and avoid bringing food or beverages inside the church. If you're looking for a place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink in the vicinity, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby that you can explore.


Does Church of the Ascension offer luggage storage?

The Church of the Ascension, located in New York City, does not offer luggage storage facilities. As a historical church and place of worship, their primary focus is on religious services and events. However, there are several other options available in the city for luggage storage. Many hotels offer this service to their guests, and there are also dedicated luggage storage facilities and services that you can find throughout the city. These services are convenient and secure, allowing you to explore the city without the burden of carrying your bags.


Is Church of the Ascension a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Church of the Ascension is a beautiful and historic church located in New York City. While it may not be specifically geared towards non-English language speakers, it can still be a worthwhile visit for visitors from other countries.

The church itself is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and is known for its exquisite stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. It offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a great place for quiet reflection and contemplation.

While the services and sermons are primarily conducted in English, the church welcomes visitors from all backgrounds and nationalities. You can still appreciate the beauty of the space and soak in the spiritual ambiance, even if you don't understand every word spoken.

Additionally, Church of the Ascension is located in Greenwich Village, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that is popular among both locals and tourists. Exploring the surrounding area can provide a unique cultural experience, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to discover.

Overall, while Church of the Ascension may not have specific offerings for non-English language speakers, it can still be a worthwhile visit for its architectural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere it provides.


What ages are appropriate for Church of the Ascension?

The Church of the Ascension in New York City welcomes visitors of all ages! While it is primarily a place of worship, it also hosts various cultural events and concerts that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, interested in exploring the beautiful architecture, or attending a musical performance, the Church of the Ascension offers something for everyone. So, feel free to bring your family and friends along and enjoy the serene atmosphere and cultural offerings of this historic church.


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