The Brooklyn Tabernacle Reviews

I think EVERYONE that ever sets foot in the area need to experience Sunday with the Brooklyn, Tabernacle and their choir. They are a grammy award winning choir, and it is free to see them. Right next to J/Metrotech Subway, convenient. The people there are wonderful, my kids loved it, they are very kind, and it was an amazing and delightful experience.

Although I am a non Christian I have to say that it was a very spiritual moment I had at the Tabernacle. I really enjoyed this special service and believe its a unique American culture experience.

Love the Choir, felt like I was in heaven singing praises to the LORD, Love the Choir, felt like I was in heaven singing praises to the LORD,Love the Choir, felt like I was in heaven singing praises to the LORD

Very nice Gospel experience!
Free admission and very nice church members.
A nice experience, far from the very commercial churches of Harlem.

When I learned that the Brooklyn Tabernacle was right around the corner from our hotel I looked into their services right away, since we would be in town on a Sunday. We went to the 9:00 service, but arrived around 8:30, which seemed a little early, but the place sure does fill up quickly! We were warmly welcomed by a number of different people. The first hour of service was about an hour of singing together and listening to the choir. Amazing!!! The last 30 minutes was a very good sermon. It was wonderful to be with a sincere group of Christians praising the Lord. If you are in Brooklyn, don't miss this treasured experience. Even if you aren't someone who is used to "church", you'll come away feeling welcomed.

Absolutely amazing church and choir. Indeed it is an experience that anyone with a slider of spirituality should witness.

We went there for a Christmas concert, which was very nice and hearty. We also had an opportunity to listen to the choir - it was very beautiful. I guess our Christmas holiday began from that very moment. Highly recommend!

I'd highly recommend attending a Sunday morning service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle in NYC. It's easy to get to by subway. The choir sings a lot and is fabulous and inspiring, and the short sermon is Bible-based and worthwhile. I'd recommend this interracial, non-denominational worship service to both Christians and non-Christians. It's 90 minutes well spent!!

Bear in mind that you are attending a church service, not a tourist attraction, as such. Because we wanted to hear the famous choir, we attended the 12noon service. The subway station is not far from Smith St, and you need to arrive by about 11.30am to get seats in the main auditorium. The service lasted about 2 hours. The first hour was substantially music - wonderful. The congregation sings with as much energy as the choir. Before the sermon the choir leaves the stage. When we left our spirits had been given a massive boost, in a whole lot of ways. But as I said, you are attending a church service - one you are unlikely to forget.
After some lunch we used the afternoon to walk back to Manhattan across the Brooklyn Bridge. All up it was just a brilliant day.

This was a highlight of our trip. I enjoyed the worship music and wonderful message. Arrive early as there were people lined up to get in. Also there are 2 locations that show up when you search for directions so be sure you are headed in the right direction when you go. We almost missed the service because we got on the subway headed to the wrong location . You want the one located at 17 Smith Street.

Wonderful way to celebrate NewcYears Eve . Wonderful music, inspiring singing and preaching. Probably a bit overwhelming if this is an unfamiliar scene. You need to be there early ... an hour early, no filming allowed, no food, liquids and it is very hot. It is local worship service for anyone looking to be encouraged and inspired.

Well i've been there a number of times. IT's a very big church with a large membership or attendance. Everyone is welcome to visit. In the Sunday morning there are three services to accommodate everyone. Apart for the flexible I think the building won't hold all those persons at the same time. The services run for about two hours. It is the main place that all the christian artist come to hold their concert or singing explosion.

I have listened to the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir on CD's and videos for a long time! What a great experience to visit at Christmas and hear the fantastic choir perform a Christmas Musical. The greeters really were just that! As you walked in the door there was a big smile and a greeting. I can't wait to return for another experience of music at the Brooklyn Tabernacle!

The opportunity to worship with these wonderful believers and staff will forever be the highlight of our NYC visit. Each future NYC trip over a weekend will include a visit to Brooklyn Tab.

This was by far the best part of my trip to NYC! When your away from home and need spiritual feeding, Brooklyn Tabernacle is the place to be. I'm a big church goer at home and there's nothing better than visiting another state and feeling the spirt with fellow spiritual brothers and sisters in Brooklyn. The choir was AMAZING!!! When I visit again I will make sure to have another visit with Brooklyn Tabernacle.

Great athmosphere on a Sunday morning. Definitely worth a visit. The local staff was super friendly and even gave us one of the best seats in the church although they surely noticed we're just plain visitors and not the most religious type of people.

Note to all potential visitors: Filming is not allowed -- staff will make you aware of that in a friendly but authorative way :)

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!!!

Really enjoyed attending this service and the music did not disappoint. Great to see such a diverse congregation too. I was very impressed. I wish all churches shared such diversity. Highly recommend.

I went there on a early Sunday morning. We entered the service about 5 minutes late but that's no problem at all.

The architecture from the mid 18th century is just spectacular. There are about 1000seats. The gospel ensemble features fantastic musical like voices and musicians. I think they already got 3 Emmys for their albums. It's free entry and tourists are welcome.

The acoustic is top notch.

The only downside is that it's a bit to commercial. All song texts are karaoke like shown on big screens and in the end they show different kind of video ads on those screens.

I was there for a New Year's service a few years ago and then went there again just a couple weeks ago for their Easter service/play/celebration. All I can say is wow! The play itself was up to Broadway's standards. I felt like I was on the cast of "Passion of the Christ"! So powerful and well scripted! I honestly love this church it's friendly, welcoming and fresh. Definitely one of the top Brooklyn attractions!

Another blessed service at Brooklyn Tabernacle. The sermon was excellent and challenged those attending to live a godly life. One that honors God in spite of the pressures of the culture wanting to change God's plan for human existence.

As with any church, it's what you seek and what you need that gages the experience. If you love wonderful gospel music and praise music you are in for a treat. Just be ready to stay for a few hours because this isn't a Baptist or Methodist 50 minute in and out cookie cutter service with at 15 min sermon and scripture reading. These people praise a loving GOD in a very spiritual way.
You wont be sitting here. Up and down, singing along and greeting those not just in front and behind but all around. Go! Take it in! Keep an open mind and experience the true works of God.

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.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is a nondenominational church. The pastor is Jim Cymbala & his wife Carol leads the choir. The church now is housed in an old vaudeville theater at 17 Smith Street. It is stunningly beautiful inside. 3300 people can be accommodated inside the church but if you aren’t there early you will have to go across the street to the overflow to hear the sermon. The music is unbelievable. The choir has won 6 Grammys. Their singing is so uplifting & spirit filled. Pastor Cymbala is an excellent preacher. His sermons are thought provoking & easy to follow just like his Bible studies. Just like other churches, they offer children & youth programs, Bible studies, mission outreaches, prayer,& more. If you live in NYC you should go here at least once. If visiting, don’t miss this opportunity to worship.

I visited to get the mega-church experience, from the perspective of a religion teacher. Everyone could not have been more welcoming and accommodating (I brought my wife and toddler). The music was wonderful, the sermon was insightful, and facility was beautifully.

The congregation was very welcoming to us tourists (and reminding everyone to stay for the entire service), the venue is beautiful, and most comfortable chairs as it's an old theatre.

The choir had the day off (Sunday) so only a few singers took the stage but they, along with the enthusiastic congregation, sang uplifting music, alongside a live band. The 1pm service ran closer to 2hrs, as there was no service afterwards.

Remember to bring a donation - they pass a hat around - and one should always donate if they are visiting another's church.

If you've heard of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir praising in their music you will not be disappointed taking time on a Sunday morning/early afternoon service to worship with them. It is very heart lifting and emotional. Despite the large size of the congregation and many visitors it is a very welcoming experience. The choir is like no other belting their praise to the Lord Almighty. Pastor Jim Cymbala preaches words that are reachable to all. Arrive at least 1/2 an hour early to stand in line before each service. They are family friendly oriented.

Right at the entrance I was seen nicely approached by a parishioner, there is something hesitant nsch the entrance looked, Icwas warmly welcomed and to fit the place, as you should decide after 30 min whether you want to stay the whole service (2 hrs) or after 30 min singing again against, so that no disturbance arises.
It was impressive how fervently people sing and pray and celebrate their faith.

I enjoyed the experience. Felt welcome and the service was nice. Ppl weren't overly friendly but they weren't nasty. Large space.

it was great, the place is magnificent, the only thing about the metro is not easy and the New York metro is not the Parisian metro. So I recommend taking a taxi to get there.

A moment suspended with the fervor of the participants and the voices that give goosebumps.. it was a superb experience.. moving

If you are looking for a great worship and message experience you need to come to the Brooklyn Tabernacle. It is an awsome place to worship with a choir of over 250 people. If you things to consider, they have a 9, 12 and 3p services. the choir sings in either 9 and 12 or 12 and 3. We recommend the 12 but you need to arrive at least 30 min early to get a place in the main sanctuary. we didn't so we had to sit in the annex hall and watched the service on screen. It was still a great experience. If you park in the Edison Parking across the street then you may validate your ticket from the church lobby and pay only 7$. After church you need to go eat at Dallas BBQ next door. Excellent food and low prices. We totally enjoyed that too.

This looks like a typical building from the outside. You must go in to see and hear and experience. We attended a Sunday AM service and found the friendliest, sweetest people. More than that we found worship. The famous choir was fabulous and sermon so fitting in this day and time. I appreciated the pastor preaching and not just suggesting! Worth a visit!!!

Before we came to NYC we wanted to see some real gospel church service. So we found this place and went there.... and words can't describe how we felt, when the 200-piece choir was starting to sing. We were so moved, it was truly amazing. We couldn't hold back our tears.
Back home (in Germany) we go to church only on Christmas, and we are not at all religous people, but this sunday service was unbelievable. The Grammy-winning choir was singing for an hour then the pastor preached (or rather told moving, sad, funny and very down to earth stories) for another hour. Everybody in the 5000 capacity chuch (theater) was so into it, participating, praying, singing, crying, laughing, it was so so great.
After the service we walked away, not saying a word, just in awe of what we just saw and heard. If you plan to visit something gospel... come here, this is as good as it gets and you will NEVER forget it.

PS: Come an hour early to get in and to get good seats. And check out in advance when the choir will be singing. It is definitely worth it!

A nice place to worship. They cater to all age groups and the offer many play performances and concerts.

One of the most amazing experiences in NYC. The coral is great! It is not a turistic place so you can feel the real community's energy and vibration! You can not miss it!

Excellent place to come and worship. You will get the word ministered to you from the pastors and through music.

Great service and singing by the Choir! The service last about 2 hours and the tabernacle fills up. If you are in a group arrive early if you choose to sit in close proximity to each other.

There are at least 3 services on a Sunday, so you can pick one. The Brooklyn Tabernacle choir is outstanding and award winning. When I leave there, I am truly blessed and always feel uplifted. Its usually crowded so go early

What a wonderful place. Like a taste of heaven! We attended both the Tuesday noon and Tuesday evening prayer. Everyone we met greeted and blessed us! God bless this church!

My family and I had heard of the fabulous choir and listen to the music prior to our trip. It was better than any of us could have expected! Yes, you have to wait in line, yes, it was raining-still worth every bit of it! The staff/volunteers were polite but I can tell they aren't crazy about having "tourists" in their midst. We were absolutely respectful (no cameras, stayed throughout the service, dressed nicely) but when I honestly answered one of their questions about where I was from I definitely detected a cold shoulder. No matter, it was STILL awesome! Loved the choir, the message and the products I bought after the service. Will always go back on every NYC trip.

What an experience! Be prepared......it is packed to the top of the balcony. There are 3 Sunday services to choose from. First of all the building is an old beautiful theatre with an orchestra, mezzanine and balcony level. The first hour or more is wonderful, uplifting, spirit filled music......the sanctuary is rock in'. The music is worth the visit in itself. A very simple service......music, offering and sermon from a very Bible preaching man. The congregation is so welcoming and loving and encouraging to pray for each other. It is worth the subway ride from Manhatten to attend and there is a subway stop right there. Don't worry if you arrive late, many people were trickling in all during the service. The service is about 2 1/4 hours long.

Went to the choir retreat at Brooklyn Tab. This was amazing. It was a real privilege to sing with their choir. The church itself is an old theater and is beautiful. The staff was very accommodating. I see now why so many states and countries were represented by visitors to the retreat.

We're not religious at all, but this service was very moving. People were friendly and welcoming. The songs were fun and the speech of the charismatic pastor was inspiring. We highly recommend this church!

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.

I have heard about this church for years. The pastor has visited our church in Dallas. So my friend and I hurried off our plane for the Christmas service. The musicians were outstanding and the singers sounded like professionals. They also did a fantastic job presenting the real message of Christmas. As they showed in the program and as the pastor said, God gave us Jesus to show how much he cares for us. It was a fantastic presentation and the staff, greeters, etc.. all were wonderful and highly recommend.

One of my favorite memories of Brooklyn.
Love the choir and the solo performances. the music here is heart warming and inspiring.
As for the sermons...they are on point and teach the word.

Tourists looking for an experience like this can safely and easily access an uplifting morning. It’s different from many around the world and not the same as say Glide Church in San Francisco. The Pastor was unexpected and gave a thoughtful sermon. As an atheist I was mostly there for music but engaged with the rest of it to my surprise.

We planned to visit the Tabernacle, and we knew it was good, but it surpassed our expectations. With free admission to a wonderful theater, it is probably one of the best deals in town, particularly during the Holidays. We loved it!

As I entered the sanctuary you felt the presence of God. The people were very loving and courteous. The service was uplifting and awesome. The choir was excellent.The sermon was down to earth for today. Short and sweet. You walked out with I can do all things with the Lord on my side. You can have peace that surpasses all understanding when I accepted the message that was spoken. I enjoyed it .

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!

This Brooklyn Tabernacle has 3 services on Sundays: 9am, 11am, and 1pm. There is also a prayer service on Tuesdays at 7pm. People from many nationalities and all walks of life gather together to worship and hear the word. The famous Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is a special treat. If you've never visited, you must make your way there. It could be life changing.

Even for those who don't believe in God or find Jesus a abstract conceipt, you can only find it inspriring.
One of the best choir you can find, and feel the spirituality all around here.
You have to do that if you have time, and visit Brooklyn, because that's what's reak :)

We were advised to arrive an hour early to get good seats...so glad we did! The choir was Amazing! Pastor Jim delivered a wonderful encouraging message. We were delighted to meet brothers and sisters in Christ. Praying for this church to continue to reach the lost to Jesus Christ!

A great inspiring service filled with beautiful choir led worship. Visit , and soak in the atmosphere of this magnificent sanctuary

The choir sounds like a million angels. Pastor Jiim Cymbala has a heavenly calling. He's a real-deal genuine man of God who preaches for a desperate modern world. Pastor Tim Dilena has a humorous gift to enlighten the congregation with things that truly matter.

The service at Brooklyn Tabernacle was amazing. Excellent music including soloists and the famous Brooklyn Tabernacle choir. Very welcoming and friendly congregation. Worship services at 0900, 1100, and 1300 on Sundays. Services last about 1.5 hours; about an hour off and on of singing followed by a 30+ minute sermon. Easy subway ride on line C to Jay Street-Metrotech stop; walk to church from Jay street stop about 2 blocks. Note that you will be attending a church service (and not a concert) so don't go unless you plan to stay the entire time (as distracting to others for folks to get up and leave once the music ends and the sermon has begun).

What a wonderful church and they really seem to care about the community. God lives in this building for sure as the overwhelming feeling of a higher power was very eminent--- It was a great Sunday morning and the church was jam packed !!!!!!!!!!!

We were truly blessed on our visit to this church today. We went to the 11:00 service. Got there at 10:10 and had to wait in line. But it was fine. No real issue at all. There are attendants outside and it's all very orderly when the 9:00 service finishes.
Jim Cymbala said at one stage "we are there to worship Jesus. It's not a Broadway show!" Humble man with a good message from God. Really enjoyed.
By the way...photos and videos are not permitted during the service. Fortunately!

Its huge, amazing choir, very organize, a place to go and worship God. Their music is amazing. Preaching was on point.

This was one of the highlights of my trip to New York! The worship was AMAZING! I sat next to the most friendly group of women who are members of the church and they were so sweet and welcoming. The message was simple, just as the gospel should be, powerful and around 40 min. I loved that the worship was what took up the most of our services time. I wish I could come to church here every Sunday!!

We had attended a service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle over Labor Day weekend a few years ago and were moved by the experience so we returned with family on this visit to NYC. We were not disappointed! The praise music was beautiful and uplifting as the "bursting at the seams" congregation stood and sang. The choir is awesome. The message from the pastor was thoughtful and engaging. We had to leave early because of tickets to a matinee and the gentleman William sitting behind us was so kind. He accompanied us down the stairs and over to the subway station, explaining how to take the train to the city so we would arrive in time for the musical. They are a welcoming and embracing bunch of people. If you need a religious experience while visiting NYC, go to this multicultural, non-denominational church and plan for a service of at least two hours.

We were great by a lovely lady who asked us if we had been before and kinda gave us a breakdown of where to sit to enjoy it. The praise team was unbelievable and music so beautiful (it’s Christmas time) we were greeted by many people that truly made you feel at home. If I’m Brooklyn and want a great place to worship- this is your place ❤️

We came from France to see this kind of representation, we were not disappointed .
It's a huge place and the "show "(if I can say so) is really great

I attended a show on Saturday night at the Brooklyn Academy of Music and decided to go to Brooklyn Tabernacle on Sunday. Surprisingly, discount parking was available around the corner. A decent diner, serving breakfast, was on the corner. Good time, great service and as advertised, the choir was excellent.

Choir is amazing!!! Listening to 300 voices singing prAise and worship was beautiful. The message was great and relevant. Everyone there makes you feel like family!!

My husband and I were planning to see the Phillips, Craig, and Dean concert in western NY until we saw that they would be performing with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, so we decided to make the 250 mile trip to Brooklyn instead. The building itself is gorgeous! We met several church members at the concert and found them to be very friendly and excited about their church. As for the choir - awesome! We are already talking about making another trip for a concert in the future.

Great place visit if you want to hear a word from the Lord. The choir is amazing but the Lord also speaks. If visiting, plan to stay until 11:00AM for the 9:00AM service and until 2:00pm for the 12:00pm service.

Great Sunday service. Long waiting line but the hall is so large that you can also show up at the last minute and still get in.

From the moment you walk through the doors, you are welcomed. At the same time, the church is very aware that some people simply look at the service as a tourist spot, and they take seriously their responsibility to keep God as the main focus of the service. The music is phenomenal, and the preaching is God-centered.

I visited on Easter Sunday at the 12 pm service and saw a powerful church production of the Crucifixion and Resurrection.
It was a diverse assembly of people of all ages and nationalities.
The choral selections are uplifting.
The Tabernacle is close to several trains and so it is easy to get to.
But arrive before the service starts as it gets fill to capacity.

I visited twice, each time on a Sunday at 9 am with out-of-town guests. The atmosphere is absolutely electric and the singing absolutely spectacular!! Situated in a converted theatre, the space is magnificent, and jam packed with thousands of church-goers (& tourists!) Each time we went, the entire choir was up on the stage, singing with such amazing energy and power - it was really quite a moving experience. The words for group sing-a-longs are projected onto screens throughout. The church-goers are all quite friendly and the ushers are helpful in finding you a seat! Try to get there early and get a seat up front to be fully immersed in the atmosphere. The sermon following the choir was a bit long, but it's worth sitting through, just to hear the choir!! I would definitely say this is a "must see / do" if visiting Brooklyn / NYC.

I've to this church many times and I've seen tourists around, but never thought of writing a review. However, I think this is the proper thing to do as this is a very Bible centered preaching Church, and a place with an awesome facility and sound quality.
Of course, the purpose of all that is done in Brooklyn Tabernacle is to worship and adore Jehova, the God of the Bible.
And I encourage everybody to visit and appreciate a way of doing the worship with elevated quality and passion. Elevation and passion would not be worthy if the encouraging messages and wonderful worship didn't make the difference.

I loved visiting the Brooklyn Tabernacle! Their award winning choir was amazing to listen to. We came on New Years and it was super packed, so come early.

From the outside, it looks like a normal building. Once inside, you see it is an old theater. What a beautiful building!! We had a great time and came twice during our trip.

We had been before in Harlem for the Sunday Mass and wanted to try the atmosphere, they were very friendly from the first moment and the experience was great, lovely music, lovely people and great feeling, thanks!

The production values are so professional, and the choir so well trained, that the first time I saw their holiday show I thought I was on Broadway or at Radio City. The added advantage is that you may spot your Brooklyn neighbors on stage in the chorus.

As a christian, Whenever I travel abroad I visit a church on Sunday.
In NYC, this is a must for christians.
It was my 2nd time here, they welcomed us with warm hearts.
Though you're not a christian, it's worth to visit and attend on the service. In all proceed, you can feel the culture of the area mixed in the service.
Hope to visit here again.

God bless you!

I visited the BT for Easter and they had an amazing play about the resurrection. I enjoyed every bit of it!

They run 3 services on Sunday at 9, 12 and 3pm due to the size of the congregation. In attended the 12pm as I was staying in Brooklyn nearby. I arrived about 1130 and got a seat. Too much later and you may be struggling. The choir and audience sings for the first 1/2 hour and easy to sing along as the words care up on screens. The singing and friendliness of the congregation is outstanding. I loved the experience though not religious myself.
I stayed for about 1 hr 15 mins but the service goes about 2 hrs.
Well worth it for an authentic experience.

I read the Pastor's book years ago and absolutely loved it. It was great to see the church and to visit it. It made me want to read the book again.

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.

If you're into Jesus and you're EVER visiting the Big Apple, then there are 2 churches you MUST visit: Times Square Church and The Brooklyn Tabernacle. Lovely place, lovely time spent, beautiful ambiance/building/people. Need we say more??

While there is no perfect church and there are many elements of this church that feel more like a Broadway production than a true worship service, it is nevertheless extremely well thought out, an amazing experience, the choir will blow you away... It is an amazing experience!

... great singing.... crowd was wild.
Brooklyn Tabernacle is a non-denominational church located at 17 Smith Street at the Fulton Mall in downtown Brooklyn, New York City. Brooklyn Tabernacle has 16,000 members and is one of the biggest churches in the Greater New York metropolitan area. Jim Cymbala has been the pastor of the church for over 40 years.

The church is known for its sermons, guests and its six time Grammy Award-winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, which is directed by Carol Cymbala, the wife of the main Pastor, Jim Cymbala.

By the time Pastor Jim and Carol Cymbala took over the leadership in the autumn of 1971, the congregation had dwindled to just 30 people who met in a rundown building on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn. In the 1980s, the Brooklyn Tabernacle purchased the former Carlton Theatre at 292 Flatbush Avenue at 7th Avenue, converting the 1383-seat theatre into a church. After many years of decline, the church was revitalized as a non-denominational congregation, and became well known as the home of the award-winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. The church remained in this location until 2002 when they purchased and renovated the former Loew's Metropolitan Theatre at 17 Smith Street.

The Sunday we attended the Cymbala's were on a mission trip but the church service went on with out missing a beat. What a great sign of excellent leadership.

This was a bucket list place for my wife and i. We could not have been happier with our experience. It started with a parishioner who sat by us that was so excited about his church. It is always good to see people excited about where they worship. The choir was, as expected, phenomenal and preaching was too the point.

We really enjoyed worshiping here and hope to come back again in the future. Keep doing what your doing because it is working.

I have to mention the venue itself. An old theater that has great character that is beautifully maintained. The 2 large paintings in the foyer were absolutely stunning. Thanks for maintaining and treating God's; house with respect.

As soon as you hear the organ's first chord, your heart and soul and spirit will sing! Forget Gospel tours, this is the real thing! I've taken foreign visitors here who do not speak English and they marveled at the experience and some even returned on their own. You will not be disappointed! Thankful! Bless us all!

A blessed experience. Inspirational sermon.
It was a blessing to worship with many different kinds of believers. Unity in the Spirit was evident throughout the service. Of course the singing was inspirational and a joy to the soul!

no words to describe it.

they won a grammy, so...

and pastor jim cymbala is a great man of God.

if i lived in NYC this would be mu church.

Saw the choir in Live concert and it was amazing! The church is filled with love and joy!!! A must visit when you are in the brooklyn area

I've been visiting Brooklyn Tabernacle for over a decade now. And although I haven't joined, I enjoy coming to worship when I can. The last few times I've visited, I noticed that tourists just come to hear the choir and then leave before the sermon. Of course, the award-winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is amazing, but Pastor Jim Cymbala gives a no-nonsense, Bible-based sermon that is worth hearing.

Mere words are not adequate to describe the wonder and awe of this place. God is at work among these dear people and it can literally be felt. My husband and I were moved to tears when the congregation sang. It was so moving; the Holy Spirit is surely in this place. Thank you for blessing us in this way.

I have been going to this church for 4 years now. Love the music, love the message. They recently brought on pastor Tim Dilena who was a true blessing and is a powerful speaker.

Atmosphere is always there for receiving the word of the Lord. Gets crowded fast, come early. Wonderful place to worship. The choir is truly heavenly.

If you are visiting NYC and will be there on a Sunday, go to Brooklyn Tab. The 9am service is awesome. A great place to worship. People are friendly and welcoming, but they don't over do it. Its like you are a part of worship and have been there for years.
The choir is great. The sermon is right on point.
Its very easy to get to by Metro. The station is a block form the entrance.

The Annual Christmas Spectacular was truly that, spectacular! Professional production and professional cast in a gorgeous setting which filled our hearts with everything that the Christmas season is truly about.

This place of worship is very diverse and the choir is top notch! I always get the feeling of God's spirit all around this place and the pastor is great!!

NO place like this on earth... I can't put this church into words but God does amazing things here. Go Go Go

We didn't know exactely what to expect.. and we met a warm welcome, an amazing choir and lived a great spiritual experience. Even my mother who doesn't speak english started singing with the choir. Every one there had a shining face at the end of the service.
Prefer the service at 9.00 on sunday, less touristic...

The choir is incredible!! What a way to worship!! The Sunday morning service was fantastic and the congregation is so diverse. The pastor had a wonderful message. A lot of people attend, so be patient with the crowd. The building is a lovely historical theatre.

This was not on my radar when we initially planned our visit to NYC. About two weeks before we left for the east coast my wife said she wanted to go to the B.T. I acquiesced since I wanted to do something the following day that she was lukewarm about. Well, it was a great decision and the experience was superb.

We got there early (8:00 a.m.) to ensure a seat. We ended up in the third row, yay! We were greeted by staff and volunteers at the church so many times we lost count. Everyone was extremely gracious and welcoming...Jesus would smile.

The music was awesome, as expected. We were also extremely impressed by Pastor Cymbala, whose sermon that day was just awesome. This place is so much more than just the choir. We actually spoke with a lady who commutes 1 1/2 hours each way to attend. We spoke with some people from Georgia who come to church here every time they're in NY. The following of the church is very loyal and now we know why...Jesus is on the premises!

Voices from heaven, simple and direct sermon, every seat filled, high energy,lines to get in but worth it

Our family have always wanted to worship at Brooklyn Tab, and we were NOT didsappointed. An amazing service, outstanding worship and we were made to feel like royality! If we lived an hour or less away...this would ABSOLUTELY be our church home!

WOW! If you have never bee to the Brooklyn Tabernacle, you need to put this on your "bucket list." This is no doubt the friendliest, most accommodating group of people you will ever encounter. The music is outstanding and the message from the Pastor is simple, succinct and spirit filled!

This was our first experience of a service in the US. I am sure it's not representative but it was a great experience. The choir are something else - great harmonies and singing with meaning. The preaching was excellent. The only down-side was the rather unfriendly and directive welcome from several ushers.

I attend Sunday services regularly. The praise and worship is always good. The sermons are powerful. Everyone who visits should stay for the sermon and be blessed.

This was a special place to spend Christmas Eve. Wonderful singing and message. The early 9am service was crowded, but not so crowded we couldn't get a seat. Best to get there early.

we saw, and heard a bit of it's history, the Tabernacle when we took our Tenement Museum Tour...will try to include the inside tour in our next visit. lots of history and it's obvious that much love and care has gone into making sure it is preserved and gets to stay in the neighborhood!

Amazing Easter experience. Different yet appropriate. Message and music amazing
Would definitely return and recommend

I have been a fan of this choir for many years, Over the many times I have been to their home base in Brooklyn, I have enjoyed their songs as well as the presentation.

This is a place of worship of Jesus Christ. IT is a beautiful building with old world restoration of architecture and holds 5000 seats.

We attended for a baby dedication and the church is beautiful with a vintage gold design. The church is huge with lots of seating on the lower level and there was even a balcony.

The choir was amazing! There had to be at least 100 beautiful voices singing the most familiar gospel songs making it easy to join in and praise with them. Large screens on the left and right of the main stage displayed the words of the music in the event you didn’t know the words. The Choir sang about 3-4 songs while we all stood. Then they sang another 2 songs while we sat.

The church was pretty cold for a March day. I never took my off and my daughter kept her coat zipped with her hood on the whole time.

There was a guest pastor from Harlem who not resides in Kentucky and his story was very engaging but also a great testimony to Gods love.

I took my children to the bathroom during service and I was impressed with the sitting room before you enter the bathrooms. The bathrooms were very clean.

Parking was horrible. And if you live in Brooklyn I’m sure you’re aware of this. Coming from Long Island we drove around for 20 min looking for parking and then found a spot 5 blocks down! It wasn’t a far walk but just so unfamiliar to attend church with no onsite parking.

Great time ... Uplifting -- and free. The only thing freer and more UPlifting is salvation and you will know how to obtain it after a Brooklyn Tabernacle service.

we went to the Brooklyn tabernacle to hear a gospel choir as we had read varying reviews of other more frequented places. It was worth the trip to Brooklyn. The people were welcoming, the choir was great and the sermon was relevant and grounded in real life and I'm not religious. I got a lot out of it, although it did go for a long time.

I went to a free concert on 12/19/10, i remember because the show was sooo good i went into labor. My baby was born on 12/12/10 one hour after I got to the hospital. Thank you Brooklyn Tabernacle

This church was a vaudeville theater that's been renovated, it's very nice. Of course the music was outstanding. The people were super friendly, well worth the stop.

Sincere heartfelt worship from talented singers and you will worship and sing praises to the Lord with people of many cultures. Holy Spirit inspired preaching, the truth is preached.

I have visited many church of different denominations-and have heard many choirs.
A friend said I should not miss a visit - so I went.
The size, sound and music of the Brooklyn Tabetnacle Choir was a most unique experience and should be visted at least once by anyone passing through or spending time in Brooklyn.

I love the architecture and the people. I went on a day that it rained, so i wasnt able to take pictures outside, but i definitely will be returning! Everyone i encountered here were super friendly.

Of course the big draw is the BTC - and there is no doubt they are absolutely incredible - and it was amazing to see them. However Pastor Jim made the point this is not just another tourist stop, but a bible teaching church - and that is exactly what it is.

Great Pastor, great message, great people, would love to return when in NYC!

Thanks for making us feel so welcome.

My daughter attends this Church and we went while visiting her. We went to the Tuesday night prayer service. You need to get there early if you want to get a seat. The preacher has got to be about the best we've ever heard - Preacher Cymbala. He has a way with words and keeps you riveted while he is preaching. The people there made us feel very welcome and right at home.
We listen to Preacher Cymbala on podcasts now as well. He is truly a gift. If you are in Brookly and want to hear the word - this is the place to be!

Well, if you want to go be blessed go to BT! My mother just went there to see a play about a month ago she said it was very very good! They have all kinds outreach ministries they are such a help in the community! So stop by BT to be blessed and be a blessing!

I always wanted to visit the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church because their music is very inspiring. We decided to attend Christmas service, the first one of the day.
We took the subway 2 and get off Borough Hall and just walked to the church.
Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the service because the closer to the service time, more people arrive and if the main sanctuary is full, you will stay in a overflow room.
The service was beautiful, music impeccable an inspiring the only disappointment was that the choir was not present, but understandable since it was Christmas morning. Very friendly and welcoming place

New Sunday schedule: 9am 11am and 1pm. We went to the 11am service on feb 14th 2016. Choir sang during 30 minutes: it was absoluty fabulous! The place is modern, not really beautiful, but the sound is great. Total service lasts approx. 2 hours: it was really moving. You donate what you want in the end. I strongly recommend Brooklyn Tabernacle!

For many years I have been familiar with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and have read books by Jim Cymbala. My husband and I went to the 12 o'clock service and it was a wonderful anointed service. We got there about 11:20 so we had no problem getting a seat. The ushers and everyone else we spoke to were very friendly. The stage was set for their Easter Drama so the choir was not there just the praise team. The praise and worship was incredible and it was a wonderful feeling to be worshipping with so many people from so many different places and backgrounds. I think there were two other special music songs and they were beautiful and anointed! The Pastor's message was great and many people responded to the altar call.

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.

We chose to go to this Mecca of Gospel in view of the glowing comments and we were not disappointed. As soon as you arrive, you are welcomed and pampered. The smiles are sincere and kind. How good it feels! People there ask you where you are from and are interested in you. They advise you on the choice of places. The place is huge (you don't expect that) and fills up very quickly. You must be there at least 3/4 hours before. At one point, singers arrive on stage, many of them! The lead singer sings and it's breathtaking. What fervor, what communion, what joy! Screens help you follow the lyrics. I am an atheist but I was truly touched in the heart by so much love and sincerity. We did not stay for the mass itself because as they point out it is not a Broadway show and that would have been disrespectful to them but it will remain a long-lasting memory.

Having worked with Carol at many of the music conferences, I wanted to see in person what she has accomplished at her church. Sunday was a usual service for The Tab. We arrived about an hour before service was to start so we could get good seats. Over an hour of beautiful music by the choir, soloist, and congregational singing set the tone for the service. I was truly blessed to be in the House of the Lord.

So refreshing to go to church and enjoy being with people of all cultures and races and praise God together like it should be. No divisions or separations. All one body in Christ! Don't miss out of this experience and attend their services. The message spoke to my heart and life as well. I was told the Tuesday prayer meeting was a must but we already had made plans... Will go back next time I'm in NY.

I visited Brooklyn Tabernacle and it was an awesome experience. I am not Christian, however, I did go to Catholic school my whole life, so I am very exposed to the religion. I visited this church for my God Daughters christening. This church is so multi cultural, multi racial, multi national....it was inspiring. I felt like it was the most all inclusive experience I have ever had. My wife is Christian and we are considering this church to be our main church experience going forward. I recommend it to anyone!

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is located in downtown Brooklyn. The neighborhood not the greatest but safe on Sunday afternoon. Get ther early for a good seat.Service starts at 12 and 3 PM, It gets crowded so get ther half hour before service starts. If filled you will be directed to the overflow room which is across the street where service is viewed on screen. The Brooklyn Tabernacle is Evengelical and offers a good praise & worship before the Sermon begins. The building is a beautifully renovated movie theater. The Chior has some beautiful voices, is well known & has a few CDs out. Service lasts about 2 hours. On holidays & special occassions they offer Christian Theme plays.

Cannot be described. Go in with an open heart & open mind. You will feel something in this House. Pastor B married my wife & I...so glad to be a part of this family.

If you are a fan of gospel music, then try to squeeze in a visit to the Brooklyn Tabernacle. The church is really well organised and staff to accommodate the large congregation of both locals and tourists. They have several services and they can become quite full but I've been twice and got a seat no problem both times.

Look online to see what time church services to start and it always pays to be early, depending on how desperate you are to get a seat right at the front.

If you are a local they offer quite a range of social and support activities to get involved with. If I ever move to Brooklyn, I would definitely attend regularly or I'd most like look into joining the choir.

On my first visit, I stumbled across Katz Deli and on my second visit I ended up at BBQ's after church-so there's a variety of restaurants to dine at after your service.

This church is full of people who love the Lord. They were super-friendly to the visitors, especially our youth group from Alabama. The music is phenomenal and energetic. Loved it.

What a powerful presentation. I couldn't believe it was free. AMAZING. Thank you to all the people who thought of putting such an amazing production together.

The facility is so beautiful.

It is like a concert every time I go there..I love Pastor Cymbala because he is so down-to-earth...and Pastor Tim Dilena is soooooooo funny... I love when he uses his family life situations to drive home the point in a sermon...Oh I miss Brooklyn Tabernacle every Sunday morning, but it was good to catch a sermon while visiting....one's life can be changed forever through this awesome experience of worship.....

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!!!

Today my mom and I went to attend the 1pm service with the guest speaker Jeremy Lin. The service is awesome and it was all packed. The choir was awesome and they sang a lot of songs and pastor Jim Cymbala is a great pastor and that he introduced Jeremy Lin to the public.

I have to tell you it's not the easiest location to find. It doesn't LOOK like a church at first. When we looked it up it we went deep into brooklyn and found out that it was a branch of brooklyn tabernacle but NOT the one with the choir. So make sure you get the right address. We caught a bus back to this one. They have a lot of services and the place is ALWAYS packed with people. There are A LOT of people who are not too into the service or church in general but come here to see the choir. There is no recording in the church and many people will leave when the choir leaves. That's ok but the service was outstanding as well. We were there for 9/11 and all of it was great. The welcome gift for new visitors are 2 free downloadable songs by the choir. It is a great time. Would go back here again if I were ever in town again. If you go with a group you must enter as a group. There are no holding seats as the place does get packed.

Great place for families from out of town to meet and have worship. Friendly atmosphere and amazing music.

If you are in the area, plan to attend one of the Sunday services with the BT Choir or the Tuesday night prayer experience. You will not be disappointed. But come early, this isn't like your church back home.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is rich with history and the restoration and its story is by God's hand. The outside of the building is nice but when you walk into the inside it's beautiful and the sanctuary is stunning. I went on the Tuesday Prayer Night. Pastor Jim Cymbala is anointed and his preaching touched my heart. Everyone was friendly and helpful when I had questions. You're not supposed to take photos of the sanctuary and I didn't know so I did but when I exited I saw the sign and deleted all my photos and that's ok, I have my memories. It's definitely worth the trip and afterword I ate at the deli next door and made a friend.

Go early to get a seat. You will feel both renewed and revived afterward. They are a loving congregation and they love visitors. Oh yeah the choir wins Grammys. Prepare to be blown away.

Went to the Brooklyn Tabernacle in order to hear the famous choir and WOW! The choir is like nothing I have ever heard in person. They sound just like their CD, yet at the same time, so much better! The church is huge, and the congregation is super friendly and welcoming. The church was beautiful and warm. Will definitely be returning!

Our family worshiped here on Sunday morning while visiting NYC for a week. Easy subway ride from Manhattan. Check the website for service times and get there 30 minutes earlier to get in line. Diverse congregation worships wholeheartedly and welcomes visitors! Remember, this is a true worship experience, not a tourist destination.

The Christmas play was fantastic. Somehow they found outstanding vocals, great actors, very good dancers and choreography all from that small town! Who would have thunk it? We arrived an hour before time and was in a line that stretched almost completely around the block but no problem as seating held 4800 or so and they had overflow seating across the way. Very good production and message.

Only negative is that the seating needed to have about 5 degrees more angle. We had to dit in the upper section and ad to peer between heads to see and some of the production was at the front of the stage and was hard to see. But it was not really bad except for my vertically challenged wife.

This is not the gospel service that I had in mind, in fact, I’m not sure this can actually be considered as gospel. They have a huge choir and, due to the amount of people singing, the music can be very moving. However, there are not amazing solo singers or special musical arrangements so in the end the only special thing (musically speaking) is the fact that the choir has many members.
I wouldn’t recommend visiting if what you want to see, as I did, are the gospel choirs that appear in movies. I wouldn’t go if what you are searching for is a musical experience.

My daughter and I visited the church last sunday..sat on the 2nd row..:).what an awesome and powerful service... Get there VERY early for the services..

Shane and Shane are playing at the Brooklyn Tabernacle! This place is a beautiful!!!! Lift up Jesus here.

Never been to a Gospel Church before but this was amazing and moving. The choir are spectaculor the preacher is very enthusiastic which is fabulous to watch and the whole church is involved absoultly loved it highly recommend. Do not be one of the ignorant people who just come to see the choir then walk out!

Coming from a very traditional Catholic country, where masses are old-fashioned, spleenful and severe, it was nice to experience a festive service where things were led like a celebration, and people seemed to be happy about their beliefs rather than fearful. The choir only had about 15 people, I was expecting more but it was good nonetheless.

I am a member of a church that is the sister to this church and whenever I can I stop by here and enjoy their service. Worth stopping here at least once in your lifetime.

First of all, the place is very beautiful. It is a nice ambiance and people are very welcoming there. I recommend it!

This was my first trip to NYC and likely last. Being from North of Dallas TX I was not attracted to density of people, But the Brooklyn Tabernacle visit for 3:00 pm was a highlight of my trip to the area. I have heard Pastor Jim Cymbala online and wanted to see him in person. It was Thanksgiving week so there was a substitute speaker. The music was great and spirit was present. It was wonderful to see the diversity of those worshiping.

too much singing and less preaching. i mean common i know a music minister to our soul but everything that is to much is no good. too much commercialized selling cd and stuff. i got frustrated cuz i bragged about ur church to my kids . where is the spirit , my butt hurts sitting down for 2 hours . i got only touched in first 3 song after that is dragging. its like watching a show not worshipping. i got no more words for this

Exactly as a french tourist can imagine :-) First, it is incredible how professional it is ; 7 cameras filming the office (should I say the show ?), 200 chorists, around 10 musicians... The result has really top professional quality, honestly, much better than many concerts I saw !!! Now up to you to say if you like or not the message, many times the officer refers to money without any complex, that´s the american way. But for sure this is much much more energizing than our old-style european mass, you are filled with energy, and people are just happy and positive. That´s what matters at the end, isn't it ? Tip : be there around 30 minutes before the start.

Everyone was sooooo nice there. The choir sounded amazing. Definitely a lot of talent there. The sermon was really good too.

We took a "busman's holiday" on an October Sunday (pastor family in disguise). The large congregation felt small as ushers, greeters and others welcomed us. The Spirit of the Lord was in this place and we were renewed to continue our own ministry

Good experience, excellent organisation of the event by friendly and welcoming volunteers. Multi confessional speech focusing on the love, faith and people well being. Sound level a little bit too loud but amazing choir and singer with very high quality. Available in streaming if you like to preview but on-site experience with all people attending is a must.

We stopped in here on our way to brunch one Sunday. We heard the music and could not resist going in. A great Sunday service with lots of singing and a wonderful sense of community.

The first family activity in NY and it was high on the activity list - gospel. Praise the Lord; we were not disappointed.

European churches could learn something; when you can fill a Hall with 3,000 people 3-4 times per week you got the right ‘product’.

We enjoyed the singing, the closeness with other people but at the end a product needs selling and money raised to pay for the ‘show’ - it was tastefully done; no power sell.

We warmly recommend spending 1.5 hours with the finest people in Brooklyn on Sundays; check out times at their website.

Need sign language in churches so that the deaf can participate.It been my first visit. I do not have any money to book a hotel so i visit whomever will accompany me. (those I knew in the past). I also enjoyed the full screen in the church as it helped me to observed the songs being sung. I like the comfort of the church. There were a warm congregration presented. Would love to visit many country but am stuck on where to stay and to find the company of deaf people and past deaf friends.

Family vacation with two children and a college student. We planned on stopping by for Sunday service, but woke up late. Rushed to get here and dropped off my wife and kids first. They made it in, but by the time I had parked, the church was full and a lined had formed. I told the deacon that was helping out that I had my family in there, but sounded like many people in the same situation. Ended up waiting in line for a while before going to the annex. Missed the choir, but sermon was right on - simple, direct, and to the point. Afterwards, my family said they enjoyed the service. We'll just have to get there much earlier next time.

I have attended Sunday services and Tuesday evening prayer times. God does not live here but He seems to be present every time I am here. Pastor Cymbala is a great communicator of God's Truth and leads the congregation to demonstratively and whole heartedly praise our Creator God. I would not miss worshipping here on a Sunday 9AM, 12 noon, 3 PM or Orayer Meeting on Tuesday evening at 7 PM (doors open at 5).

Blown away by the excitement and fun of this church experience. The pastor had is eating out of his hands. He started with shake someone's hand in front of you, by the end of the sermon we are hugging each other and just about crying. Everyone should experience this place at least once. If not to see an old New York/Broadway/Brooklyn theater

Every time I visit Brooklyn, this is the church I go to. I love the choir, the service, and great hospitality from the ministry staff.

Great church - I highly recommend. Don't be intimated by the size. Go for the great experience and be filled with greatness.

OMG, the Sunday morning service at this place was awesome. Rousing and inspiring music, a congregation that participating in the music and movement. The choir belted out wonderful songs. Great opportunity to sing praises and be grateful for life shared with a diverse community of people.

Just an amazing experience. Music is phenomenal, church is filled, and then breakfast at the Apollo right around the corner. A not to be missed experience.

The Easter Drama was professional and powerful and being there was so uplifting to our souls .People were very friendly.

Lovely huge church with wonderful vocals of the choir. We visited Sunday service (together with hundreds other tourists) and it was incredible atmosfere. Great and emotional experience!

Love going to this church for service. The music, the message, the people. They usually have free concerts on Sunday afternoons, be sure to check ahead of time to plan your day.

This is the perfect place for worship .The music is so divine.I bought a CD and just can't stop listening to it

This is a phenomenal church. It was so cool to walk straight out the streets of Brooklyn, where we couldn’t tell if there was a Christian brother ir sister anywhere in the vicinity, to find hundreds (maybe more like thousands) of people of diverse race and background) sincerely worshiping God together. Wow! Powerful worship.

I have been attending this church my whole life, so my review may be a bit biased, but I've been to other churches and this is the best one!!!! Not only are you blessed the Grammy Award Winning The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, but also by the words by Pastor Cymbala and the other pastors that preach here. Even though it is a large church, you can always find your place here and serve or if you visit, you are always welcomed with open arms and a warm smile!!!

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 was
Wonderful 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 warm
Smiles, 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.

Visiting The Brooklyn Tabernacle was one of the most memorable parts of our NYC trip. The building itself was the largest theater in America when it was built back in the early 1900s, so that alone makes it worth a visit. It has been beautifully restored and creates an incredible setting for worship and music.

Now onto the choir...which is absolutely phenomenal! You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the talent and heart behind it. The message from Pastor Cymbala was down-to-earth and encouraging, and everyone we met was super welcoming to visitors.

If you're in Brooklyn on a Sunday, definitely check it out. It’s free, no tickets needed—just show up a little early to get a good seat!

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.

Our first time it was amazing. The service is so special and we saw the choir show. We were blessed!

One of the most powerful spiritual experiences of my life, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Tuesday evening prayer meeting is the foundation of this Spirit-filled church. Make sure you're there for God's reasons, be there by 6 pm for the 7 pm start, be aware of the silence and prayer going on around you as you join in, prepare to be there until 9 pm, yearning for more!

I attended the 0900 service recently. The tabernacle is enormous, I'm not sure how many people it holds, but it must be over a 1,000 and it was packed. Service goers appeared to be mostly locals, multigenerational and multiracial. I can't imagine many congregations in the UK hitting that number! Everyone appeared to know everyone else, and there were numerous Deacons who said hello and had a quick chat with everyone they could shake hands with.

The singing was amazing and the sermon moving, thought provoking and very relevant for our world today

Note - if you attend this service you need to be prepared to participate - there are times in the service where you're asked to shake hands, say hello and even hug the people around you (as well as sing, sing, sing!) This is a good, Christian and friendly thing to do but I saw visitors looking embarrassed and trying to avoid it - which I thought was disrespectful. This isn't a gospel show, it's a church service and act of worship, but one that is the opposite of the dreary joyless experience of an Anglican or Catholic service - it's full of joy and very emotional. If the church and its congregation lets you in and is prepared to share its faith with you, then the least you can do is join in!

Whatever your faith (or even if no faith) the opportunity to be a part of this incredibly uplifting experience, with the most positive energy I've experienced, is one not to be missed.

PS the service lasted around 90 minutes and it flew by. The queue outside for the 1100 service was extraordinary - if you can get to Brooklyn for the earlier service, it's probably a shorter queue (I got there just after 0800, there were a lot people were already waiting, but we were let in quite quickly )

I'm from Brazil and visited BT Church today for the 12 pm service, and it was wonderful. The choir itself was amazing, Pastor Cymbala's message was great, really spoke to me, God's presence was overflowing the place, we all worshiped and praised in Spirit and in Truth the One who is worthy, the Great I Am, Jesus. I felt extremely welcome, the members were really caring, they all made us feel very welcome, really polite, next time I'm in New York I'll definitely visit BT, I loved it, God bless you all!

It was an amazing experience to ear the Brooklyn Tabernacle singing. They are awesome. The Tabernacle was full.

We make it a point to stay over if possible until Sunday so that we can worship at BT. It is the most like heaven that I can imagine. Every nation worshipping The Lord. Pastor Cymbala is an anointed man who speaks the message of God CLEARLY so that ALL can understand. Soooo thankful for their testimony of the goodness of The Lord. We are BLESSED EVERY TIME WE GO. Parking is a bit crazy but if you take a cab...... No worries!! You will NEVER BE THE SAME! Go and find God!

We really wanted to visit a gospel choir. The BT welcomes visitors and we felt very welcome to join one of their performances. People were happy, the gospel was good, the pastor had some of those typical American TV pastor warning signs and all in all it was a very enjoyable afternoon. And it was for free (but we put something small in the bucket to pay for ourselves:) ).

We went to the 9 am service --- need to get there around 8 to get a good seat. We sat on the fifth row and thoroughly enjoyed the choir, congregation, and message. It was a two-hour worship service that I will never forget --- can't wait to get back and go again.

We loved to join the Sunday Service at Brooklyn Tabernacle. The music is amazing and you can really feel the Hole Spirit presence. Very blessed speach also! I would love to join a church like this one in Brazil!

life gospel songs in the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church on sunday caused tears on my face spontaneously immediately when I listened to hundred people singing...need to experience

This church is so friendly, organized and focused on delivering the message of love and salvation! The music and the preaching were very uplifting.

We were unlucky, we hadn't checked the website and it turned out the Tabernacle Choir was abroad singing. The replacements were pretty good too though and we enjoyed it.

I was impressed by how close and welcoming the community was. Next time I'm in NYC I will try to visit this place again :)

The best we did, love the choir. The songs take you to heaven, we spent new years eve and im glad we did its spiritual, love the people they make you feel in your own church

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!

This is the third time we’ve come to the Brooklyn Tabernacle, and every time we visit, we always attend Sunday morning services at 9:00 a.m.

The songs of the choir, accompanied by the orchestra, are absolutely breathtaking and upsetting. The warm Welcoming and kind exchanges during the service make this moment even stronger and sincere.

Three years ago, we came with a friend who, moved to tears, had been deeply touched by the power and spirituality of this experience — just like us. This year, together with other friends to whom we wanted to introduce this exceptional place, we once again shared moments of rare intensity, and they too were moved to tears.

If only we could feel such depth and fervor in our offices in France!
A huge thank you for these wonderful moments we live at each of our passages.
I promise, we'll be back!

All my life I had heard about the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church and Choir. Since I was visiting family in Brooklyn, it was time to check it out! What an awesome church service! If you want to 'feel' like you've been blessed by the presence of God and listen to some awesome praise, get yourself over to Bed-Stye for the experience of a lifetime!!

The music gets you going: strong instrumentalists back the huge choir (noted for its thick harmonies and dramatic rhythms). Pastor Jim Cymbala shared an inspiring message. There's no better way to start a Sunday in Brooklyn than at the Tabernacle!

Note: The service was 2 hours long, but seemed much shorter. Not a bad length, but you just need to know to plan a good time there.

We have wanted to visit Brooklyn Tab for a long time so we made sure to include it in our trip this time to New York. It was an incredible experience hearing the choir and Pastor Cymbala speak! The singing was incredible and I wish I could come every weekend to enjoy the worship! It was truly a dream come true and SO moving! Take some tissues!!!

Great worship. The spirit of the lord is present. The praise and worship is touches the soul. Keep brining the word forth.

I truly believe that Pastor Cymbala is anointed and has a gift on teaching the words of God and saying it in a way that provides easy understanding and make it applicable for everyday life.

The choir is anointed. Beautiful voices. Helps you connect with God and feel his presence. Very professional and well put together. I think some are professional singers and may have record deals or at least they should. I know the choir has won awards in the past.

They have an excellent and caring child watch/Sunday schools for children. Where they watch children and teach them praise and worship that are age appropriate. They also have a play room where parents can attend with their child. there is a TV that shows the sermon.

Their Drama ministries is good and professional level entertainment while getting the spiritual message across.

They offer various ministries to help keep you closer to God ex: Womans, mens and teen ministries, Ministires for children with special needs etc.

All seats are free. They offer 3 services each Sunday. I highly recommend this place. A great place to worship, fellowship, pray, feel Gods guidance and receive spiritual guidance and wisdom. there is also an excellent prayer band that is lead by Dorothea.

If you don't know the story of the Brooklyn Tabernacle, find it on Youtube. It's a beautiful story of how God builds a body of believers. The choir is AMAZING! The pastor, Jim Cymbala is one of my favorite preachers. This should be on your bucket list. Go even to see the renovated, old theater that was purchased by the church. It is a beautiful building!

A wonderful place of worship i visit each time i am in New York inspirational singing the awesome presence of God the overflowing of The Holy Spirit-- WOW-- i love to visit the church not forgetting the choir-- amazing-- and the singing fantastic all in all The Sermon was very uplifting, food for the soul.If you are ever in New York plan to attend one of the services. A Sunday evening concert is also a must to attend GOD BLESS YOU.

The worship and message were both amazing, well worth queuing around the block in the sweltering heat for!

The walls were shaking! So awesome to worship in God's house with people of all walks of life and all skin colors.

I have attended BT for 2 years I have multiple physical disabilities I approached 5 or 6 ushers but none would even listen to me I approached Pastor Cymbala in tears He told his security to get me a seat but I said I had already asked him and he wouldnt help me Finally I was seated in the last row where I was so removed from the service I continued to cry Then they called the police and I was removed and banned from further attending the church by Pastor Jim Cymbala Part of the problem is people save seats from the previous service so there are only very few seats for people in wheel chairs and walkers.When Pastor Cymbala gets complaints he makes announcement for people who have attended a service especially the Easter Show coming up he will tell the ushers to remove peoples belongings and bring them to security Now why cant that be the policy all the time. Once I was escorted out by police I almost got hit by a car because I was disoriented I went to the deli next door still crying I saw a friend and she brought other church members who offered to pray over me. Since then I have been severely depressed I pray no one has to go through this I got a threatening message from Pastor Burgos after 3 days of trying to reach Pastor Cymbala. He didnt even have the courtesy to call me himself

All of the people at this church were very friendly. The people in the choir were singing from their hearts. The Biblical message from Jim Cymbala was practical for todays living with an application for us to follow.

I'm not a churchy person at all, for reasons that can't simply be communicated totally in a review. Long story short, I feel the church's true purpose is to be an environment where people can talk about God, having known the force for themselves. You can't really tell people, who or what God is; what ever the being or force is, it can only really be truly understood individually by each person. And so– church is better off as a forum or place to experience an environment of "fellow thinkers, believers, & communicators" that understand the need to gather and encourage each other, concerning their faith and the matters of the world, of which needs love and hope, etc. Brooklyn Tabernacle amazed me because of the sheer magic of their epic choir and the overall experience & feel of the services. These are services and choir experiences that have you leaving the place feeling like you were just in Heaven. Whether church engages you or excites you or impresses you or not– even going to this church once, is sure to have some sort of effect on you. And I say this as a creative, who works extensively in the creative fields, those guys have serious production value elements that compliment their already homey and kind feel. No church is perfect. But some are definitely trying. And this is one of them. People even welcome you as you walk in and stuff. So cool.

You are accepted whatever your religious belief is. You meet people of different races, the songs are great and the singers great. Every minute is memorable you want to go back again.

I attended the 11am service. Arrived at 10:30am and there was a queue so I would advise to get there early if you want to sit at the front. The choir was really good and a young man performed who was very energetic and AMAZING! Everyone was friendly and there were many other tourists.

FYI - You are not allowed to film or take pictures once service has begun.

I had one of my best time of my life on this place. It was a dream come true to be in this church. I was very well received and attended two services on the 12th of August. I almost lose my flight because I did not want to leave that place anymore. Even if you are not a Christian, I recommend that you go to the Tabernacle Church to attend the choir singing. It will be an unforgettable experience.

I was so curious about the Church choir and went with my friends to listen, but it was much more then singing they took me to really close by God!

I was expecting gospel and a group of 30/50 singers in colorful tunics but in the end more of a show, American-style choir, 15 people dressed in everyday clothes. The voices are splendid all the same and then comes the very very long sermon. Disappointed

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is an absolute amazing and well regarded non-denomination evangelical church that’s located in Brooklyn, New York.

In February of 2019, I brought my wife and myself to attend service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle and we had a very enjoyable experience!!!

Starting in 1984, the church took on the name of the Brooklyn Tabernacle, and has been led by
Pastor Jim & Carol Cymbala since the early 1970’s.

The church has around 10, 000 members, and features three two hour services on a weekly basis.

The most notable aspect of the Brooklyn Tabernacle and also what attracted my wife and myself to visit is its infamous Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.

The choir consists of over 200 members and they sing an extensive collection of riveting gospel songs. Their awesome talent and well acclaimed music has resulted in the choir receiving numerous Grammy records and opportunities to perform at prestigious venues, such as Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden and the Rockefeller Center.

Both my wife and I have found the music of
the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir to be quite captivating, inspirational and truly nourishing to our souls!!!

In addition to the great service, both my wife and I enjoyed the sermon delivered by Pastor Cymbala and were quite impressed with the tabernacle’s elegant interior settings!!!

If you looking to visit and attend the perfect church, then look no further than the Brooklyn Tabernacle. You’ll have an unforgettable experience!!!

the choir, the pastor and just the service was very uplifting. visited only once but i would definitely return.

This place is an experience that will lift and encourage you through worship. My wife and I went for Sunday service and felt it was one of the high lights of our New York trip. The other notable thing was this church's commitment to loving others locally, nationally, and internationally. I would highly encourage anyone to visit.

Its awesome to hear this choir in person! Listened them by bootleg in Ashgabat. I was really embraced by GOD in that amazing atmosphere of GOD's praise. I was impressed that its a real church and not a show. The highlight of my trip for me!

Going to a worship service here was a highlight of our visit to Brooklyn. The church itself, inside a restored theater, is beautiful. The choir was wonderful to sing along with for the first few songs, followed by a few songs that they sang on their own. The pastor's message was solid. It was refreshing to see such a vibrant, active church in Brooklyn.

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.

I Have Attended There Christmas Show For The Last 3 Years... It Is Absolutely Entertaining And Wonderful. Get There Early Because The Lines Can Be Very Long. Fortunately They Seem To Accommodate Everybody. Very Friendly And Helpful Staff And A Really Great Show, With Fantastic Singers. Truly Enjoy It.... Also...There Is No Charge For Attending This Event.

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.

Everything you read about this magical church is true. The music is powerful and the message is the real deal -- I could feel the power of the Holy Spirit here and I have to say, I was really moved. Amazing experience that I won't soon forget.

Must visit if you get the chance, the choir is fantastic. We met some lovely people. Great lunch on offer too!

There was a line to get in, but the crowd was well mannered. Inside looked like an old-style movie theater with large video screens. The choir was amazing, 200 voices strong. They moved together in perfect unison, and could not have sounded better. This was a truly amazing experience, and I look forward to returning if I'm in town.

A great worship experience. The choir is outstanding. It is crowded so one needs to get there about half hour early.

Church going ladies in their Sunday finest of 40 years, 20 somethings from Williamsburg, a retired transit worker in his 70s that woke up one day hearing very loud the most beautiful Christian music. Only to find it playing in his head for him alone. He wrote down the entire score and words. And continued to hear and write for three years. And carried them in a battered leather briefcase. A visited choir of 300 in addition to their own 200. People milling around greeting friends and strangers.
Then it started..... 6000 voices singing in praise with a sound system that simply blew me away.

A great sermon by a visiting pastor had us riveted. A couple of songs later. Beautiful service.

I attended 6 months ago

Everyone needs to hear a knock-your-socks-off choir once this side of heaven! We Ubered there from our hotel.

This was definitely worth the time and effort to get there. Be there an hour before the service, and you'll be able to walk right in. A line forms only to let the previous service empty. Made me think this is what Heaven will be like...every tribe and tongue worshipping together. Incredible choir and awesome pastor.

Wonderful Mass, spectacular reception, very well organized, well musical, unique experience, easy place to reach, near the subway, very gratifying, purifies the soul, thank you.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle was awesome. The choir was wonderful and Pastor Cymbala delivered a very moving message. We loved the whole experience!

I only had a one hr in this area so I picked to see this city church. Unfortunately they were closed for visitors. But front desk heard my situation, coming from CA and had only 1 hr, I got to peak at the ex-theatre that turned into a sanctuary. Hearing the history was very satisfying!

I've been several times, and it is always a joy! The music is amazing, and preaching great, too. Beautiful venue! Sit in the balcony with the other tourists, or arrive early to get a seat downstairs with the regulars. Friendly folks!

Our choir was there to sing at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. What a fantastic group of people, what an amazing choir they have. If you are looking for a place to worship while in NY, you must go there. It was such a wonderful unforgettable time we had. I cannot say enough good things about this place and its people. Simply amazing!

This was a wonderful worship service. The music was amazing and the message was thought provoking and encouraging. The greeters and ushers were very friendly and helpful. Try to come to the 9:00 service, and come 30-60 minutes early.

Forget about 'Jesus love you,' forget about 'Save me' or 'God is love' and just listen to the music and the voices that sprouts with joy. I came in as an atheist and left as a joyful atheist. Thanks to the choir for sharing their joy in life.

What a great worship experience with the choir and Jim Cymbala! everything we expected and more! The congregation was friendly and inviting

I dreamt of visiting Brooklyn Tabernacle for a long time and finally visited whilst I was on vacation in New York in 2006, listening to this. choir minister on their cds is great but to hear them live, its Awesome out of this world, I even had the opportunity to see Alvin Slaughter on that visit. I went to Sunday service for the 3 weeks I was in New York. The ushers were so pleasant, welcoming, everyone we came into contact with at the church had the joy of the Lord in them and were happy to greet us. To Pastor Cymbala and his wife Carol, God bless you and the members of your Ministry.

No words to really explain what they make you feel , just go and feel for yourself. Unforgettable experience, no matter whether and Who you believe in...

We have visited nearly every time we get into the city. The choir is tremendous, a lot of original arrangements and some great soloists to compliment the choir and the congregation singing. Pastor Cymbala has tremendous heart and sensitive spirit. I have joked that I have hugged more in this church than in some wedding receiving lines- the people are very warm and welcoming. Tuesday night is off the charts with the prayer meeting- few churches can say they are truly a 'house of prayer', but the Brooklyn Tabernacle is one such place. Also on Sunday afternoon they have a cafe that opens for lunch, the cooking is primarily with Caribbean influence, with very affordable prices.

but music is good that is what they are know for, all else... and ushers, shameful, i could say more but will exercise restraint.

Being tourists in NY, we decided to go for a Gospel service on Sunday and the Brooklyn Tabernacle was the wright place to go. They are very welcoming to all visitors and regular church-goers alike. We had a great 2 hours and on my next visit we will go back for sure!

The Brooklyn Tabernacle is among the best experiences that you can have, if you are looking for the combination of gospel music, preaching and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The ceremony I attended were just amazing. You will not be disappointed.

I met a member who walked me over at lunch time because I was interested in the architectural restoration. We were admitted while a service was happening.
However, a few friends of mine went there during their lunch period and they were not granted admission. Not only were they disappointed - they felt insulted. And they way they were refused left them feeling it was because of their color.

Blessed experience. We went two Sundays in a row. The worship experience here is reviving to the soul & spirit. A bit tricky to find but easy with street map & directions. Worth a visit!

The reviews I read around mislead me. The choir isn't really gospel, and there's no live orchestra, but it's still the best part. Too bad it only lasts 20 minutes, the rest (or an hour or so) are the ravings of a bigoted pastor who teaches you to close your mind to critical thinking, letting God think for you. It's not an interpretation, it's exactly what he says and reiterates throughout the sermon, in which he manages to insult vegans, scientists and Freudian psychology. I believe they don't want the "ceremony" to be filmed! All in a polar climate for air conditioning. Don't be fooled, you will certainly find something more inviting, spiritual and open in the city.

Holidaying in Brooklyn we were invited to attend Sunday service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle by our hosts. We arrived early and were ushered to our seats. I enjoyed the renditions by the choir; I can understand why they are world famous! The ambiance of the hall was heavenly and church goers were praising their lord and Saviour.

We love this church! It is our church when we are in NYC and the reason for our visits to NYC!! God is alive, JESUS is LORD!! AMEN! You can not believe the awesomeness of this place, every person, every race worshipping together! Such a blessing! We visited again over the Labor Day weekend, loved the worship service, the afternoon concert with The Martins but especially the Tuesday prayer service! Want to feel fresh and renewed? Visit and worship--what are you waiting for!!!!

It seems almost wrong to 'review' a church. However, this is a place where Jesus is lifted up and the Word of God is faithfully taught. Teaching, fellowship, worship, and prayer. If you're looking for a fantastic church then this is one!

This is my home church and I love it. I appreciate Pastor Cymbala and the associate Pastors and how they preach the gospel straight from the bible...nothing added, nothing taken away.

While on a weekend getaway to NYC, my husband and I had planned to attend the 11:00 am service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. It was easy to get to from the Gallivant Hotel on 8th and 48th by subway. The station is literally one block from the Tabernacle. We arrived a half hour early and were glad we did because there a line forming already. This was for the 11 am service. We waited for the 9 am service to finish. The Choir was heavenly and I felt quite at home here. The current Pastor was out of town but we really liked the Pastor who gave the word this particular Sunday. It was just what I was needing to hear. There are so many seats so not to worry about getting one. Great service and worship and would recommend to anyone! God bless.

Had the joy of being able to attend the Brooklyn Tabernacle on our last visit to Brooklyn. Wonderful service, very friendly people. Will come again on our next trip. Only down side was the LONG line to get in - but that isn't all bad when you think about it.

I always enjoy the services here. Choir is wonderful. And people there are friendly. They have child care services and the workers are wonderful.

I went for the sermon and partly to see what the place was all about given the reputation.
The place is large and is you go for the sermon getting there at least 1-2 hours ahead of time would be good to secure a seat in the main building.

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.

Come one, come all! Truly a very spiritual experience from the ushers to the choir to the preacher. I come from a " Sister Church" CHRIST TABERNACLE" where service is always great, however, have to hand it to my fellow brothers & sisters in Christ that made me feel so welcomed and filled with the word. A must TO DO!

Great church community. I love the sermons, fellowshipping, and songs sang by their world renown choir. My daughter was Christened at the Brooklyn Tabernacle and we attend services regularly. I'm always moved by the message which sometimes brings me to tears. God is good all the time! Stop by and attend one of the three Sunday services (9am, 11am and 1pm) if you're in NYC. Some people are dressed in their Sunday's best but you're welcome to come as you are. Just come! The Brooklyn Tabernacle is conveniently located in the downtown Brooklyn area.

Even people line up before each session, after we enter the church we can feel the environment totally change.
Great Choirs diverse congregation, astonishing testimony touch old and young.

After attending Sunday morning service at Brooklyn Tabernacle, I felt like I was at church for the first time in 30 years. It was one of the highlights of our trip. And the music..... no words can describe.

I don't know enough adjectives to properly express my experience at the Brooklyn Tabernacle. If you want to visit a place where they worship God from the very fiber of their being, you must go. The music is world-class, the congregation is multi-cultural, the message is biblical. I think this is how heaven will be, people from all cultures praising the Lord. You must go, must go, must go.

You can attend Tuesday night prayer service or Sunday services at 9am or 12pm - it will be WORTH it. The choir, Pastor Cymbala, the people, the atmosphere - incredible

Brooklyn Tabernacle is an amazing church as has transformed my life in more ways than one. Tuesday night service is such a blessing as we pray for others around the world and right at home, it makes you more self-less which is always a humbling thing. Sunday service starts with worship, songs by the chior, and an amazing sermon. I am proud to say I am a member of this authentic church. It's truly a blessing.

On Sunday, December 09, 2018, my husband and I stopped at Brooklyn Tabernacle to hear the Gospel. The choir was in harmony and the minister (could not tell if it was Pastor Cymbala or another minister) was on target. We made it a point to get to Church that Sunday morning. A visit to New York City should include a visit to this Church.

Located in Brooklyn, there is parking and metro nearby. Fantastic 200 persons choir belting out some of the most beautiful Gospel in New York. Services 9am 12pm and 3pm. Come 45 mins early to get good seats as its huge and gets packed. Beautiful sermon from the charismatic and engaging Pastor. They do not all any video or photography during Service. Highly recommended.

We initially wanted to go to Harlem but read that it was getting very touristic. Instead we decided to go to the 11 am service at the BT. Luckily we arrived 45 minutes early because queues stretched round the corner. The service started with choir singing for about 40 minutes. It was truly AMAZING! The pastor's sermon was heartfelt and thought provoking. We are not particularly religious but felt a sense of peace and happiness when we came out. Truly recommend it.

We popped in this show on a whim.
It was enjoyable. There are tons of people so get there 1/2 early to secure seats. The theater is warm so take off your jackets!

We attended the Christmas show service on the Sunday before Christmas Day - and what a treat it was. We were not familiar with the experience of lining up to go to church, or being seated 45 minutes before the service begins - but are so glad we did. Everyone was so friendly, and we enjoyed meeting people near us and having some great conversations as we waited for the service to begin. The entire service was so genuine, and we loved the open, caring theology of the ministry team. And the show - well, if there is a better show on Broadway, I would be surprised. So professional, and with such a good, universal message presented in an accessible yet intelligent way. Definitely the highlight of our two week holiday in Brooklyn. Would go again in a heartbeat.

We enjoyed the energy of all the visitors. We had a great service. Although it was a very big church the people were all connected.

We went to an 11am service. It was amazing. What an uplifting experience. Respect the genuine congregation and enjoy the choir and the sermon

If you are looking for good gospel music go to a real church in Harlem. There is no band just a playback and a choir and singers yelling with very high-pitched sound. A man asking for money on behalf of God is embarrassing. Only religious enthusiasts would enjoy spending so much time on a so bad situation.

Although I am not a member of the church, I visit often. Each and every time I visit the church for prayer service or Sunday service, I am greeted with a warm embrace and respect by members. Sermons are appropriately timed and to the point. The ministers find a way to help all understand the message. They speak to you not at you. They make you hunger for more.

We attended to hear the celebrated choir. The Tabernacle has giant Jumbotrons so you can sing along. The music was OK but not spectacular. The preacher gave an anti-gay sermon. My group (family) walked out.

I always enjoy my visits to this place. The people seem warm and genuinely kind. To crowed for being a member, but a great place to visit.

Everyone doesn't need to know your name to feel at home at this destination church in Brooklyn. With the finest music you'd pay hundreds of dollars to her at any concert hall, a superb communicator at the helm, Pastor Jim Cymbala, and a community of honest, believers. All are welcome.

We went to the Tabernacle to hear the world famous choir and singers (we weren't disappointed), but we were thrilled to hear such a wonderful Christ-centered sermon on our love relationships with others!

I attended one of the New Year's Eve services at this church one year ago. The members of this choir have some of the very best voices that I have ever heard anywhere. You will also be treated warmly by all who you meet there. It will not be my last visit to this church. The choir is wonderful!

Even though I had to wait in line to get into church... Can you believe it, waiting in line to GO TO CHURCH. How wonderful is that!!! The service was outstanding. The music inspiring, the vibe very nice. Since I was out of town this was a very rewarding experience.

It's very big & worship service is very good. They play the type of music that makes you get up, dance and worship.

Stop by and you will enjoy the experience. People who care and share love. Pastors after God's own heart

We really enjoyed our visit, we came for the 12:00 service and at 11:15 people werwe already lined up around the block waiting to get in. The bathrooms get very crowded. So do the nearby parking lots, I would advise you check out several on Schermerhorn between Hoyt and Smith, that's where we parked. The choir was fabulous, the sermon was very good and not showy. What stood out to us the most was the involvement of the entire congregation. Very contagious. Friendly staff. A highlight of our visit.

This church service is very moving. It is free to attend, and the ushers re well organised. The choir is magnificent, with over 200 members. Their voices were joyous and uplifting, and the congregation made us feel welcome. The music was rocking gospel, and clapping and singing was encouraged. Well worth a visit.

I love music, every kind of music however the this is not usually my first choice unless it's the holidays. The Brooklyn Tabernacle is just such a beautiful sound that you don't want to ever end. What amazing talent and poise. A very positive, uplifting experience that brings your heart and soul back into the Church and god.

I went with a group of my students (from Canada) to the Tuesday night prayer meeting, and it was absolutely wonderful, from the prayer, to the worship, to the preaching by Jim Cymbala. An unexpected bonus was the beauty of the architecture of the building - an old, classic New York theater - and the recent-ish (2002) paintings in the entryway depicting historic events. Such beauty, and such diversity in the large group praying in this packed-out prayer meeting. Can't recommend enough.

I've visited Brooklyn Tabernacle a few times. I'm not a member there because I'm a member at another "mega-church" in Brooklyn. However, Brooklyn Tabernacle is conveniently-located near major subway lines, so sometimes I end up there to worship.

The choir is good - famous, actually! Which can be good and bad. Good because they provide a nice praise and worship opportunity. Bad because they attract too many tourists who just come to watch the "gospel show" and leave. I was shocked the first time I attended BT, and saw waves of people putting their coats on after the choir finished singing and it was time for pastor's sermon. It was totally distracting to people who are really there for praise and worship and to get a good word from the pastor. Church shouldn't be a tourist attraction. If you come, come to participate and be respectful - don't ruin someone else's Sunday worship experience.

The church congregation is wonderfully diverse, as is the choir. The words to the songs are put up on a screen so you can generally sing along even if you are unfamiliar with the music. Overall, the church staff was welcoming. It can be intimidating for a first time visitor at a huge church. I didn't feel that way at all during my visit.

We went to the 1 PM Sunday service ( there was also a 9 AM and 11 AM) . We got there a half hour early and there was already a line waiting to get in -when does that happen in a church! The Brooklyn Tabernacle is a " multicultural, non-denominational church in the heart of downtown Brooklyn."

Once we were let in , we waited in a line inside for the previous service to get out. Some church regulars told us that would be a good time to use the restrooms downstairs if needed as once the previous service lets out more people will be using the bathroom....

Once the previous service let out and a lot of people cleared out, we were let in. The building didn't look too remarkable from the outside, but once inside you can see the impressive renovations inside - it was the former Loews Metropolitan Theatre. Seats over 3,000. The seats slowly were filled. wow!

When the service started , the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir sang a number of songs - something really special about such a large group of beautiful voices. (They have won a number of Grammys, sang " The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at President Obama's 2nd inauguration ....)

Pastor Jim Cymbala gave a very meaningful sermon - very positive and easy to relate to his message.

Yes, at times you are encouraged to welcome those around you , hold hands, ....but all done in an atmosphere to encourage unity and connecting to ones fellow man/woman - who can argue with that! The service lasted about 2 hours in total.

Honestly, I think the best part of the church was its simple, positive message and the fact that it was so multicultural and multigenerational . The beautiful choir is a great extension of that.

Welcoming incredibly warm novices. Mass lasts 2 hours but we don't see time passing.
Beautiful choir of about 40 people of all ages, genders and colours. A real communicative fervor because you are invited to sing, the giant screens serve as karaoke for the lyrics. The mass is translated live into French and Spanish on your mobile.
An experience to live once ... or more!!

We had a wonderful opportunity to worship at the Brooklyn Tabernacle and hear the choir singing 3 songs. What a blessing.

Used to go frequently years ago. Still have a quality service. Music ministry at 3 pm service on Sundays

On our most recent trip to NYC, we made a point to go and experience Brooklyn Tabernacle, and we came away blessed. When we got off the subway, we weren't sure which way it was (basically across the street!), and we asked a very nicely dressed woman. She was headed there, so we went with her. It was a blessing to be there, and we were blessed to sit behind a fellow worshipper named Mario (in the mezzanine). The presence of the Lord permeated everything! So many wonderful sisters and brothers reached out to us, and we felt welcome there. And getting to hear Larnelle Harris sing (as well as the AMAZING choir!) was heavenly. Thank you!

Although I've never been to a service in this church, I recently had the privilege of overhearing a choir rehearsal and all I can say is that if their PERFORMANCES during a service are anywhere near as fantastic as their PRACTICE SESSIONS are, then you are in for a treat while visiting this church when a Sunday service is taking place. It's a beautiful old building with a vibrant and spirited congregation. From what locals tell me, you'll be greeted warmly and with an enthusiasm that can't be faked. Back to the music--Powerful and uplifting voices prove these wise old sayings: "He who sings, prays twice." -- St. Augustine -- and "a hymn sung well is a prayer prayed twice." -- Unknown

WONDERFUL Feelings you get just entering the Building ,the music is awesome .EVERYTHING about this church is simply great. The people are friendly the guest musician are always right on point. I certainly would recommend this church to new Christians or people who need a place to worship.

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

It was a wonderful experience. The people were friendly and helpful. Music was upbeat, but I knew some of the songs. We heard a guest speaker who was great.

We'd been looking forward to visiting the Brooklyn Tabernacle on our NYC trip and were not disappointed. To hear the Grammy-award winning choir sing live and to hear Pastor Cymbala preach in person were a highlight. It was not performance, it was worship. The focus was on Jesus, not self-glorification. Pastor Cymbala is as humble as I expected him to be. I only wish we could have heard a couple more testimonies from the choir members, not just one.

The church itself is a beautiful facility and the greeters and ushers made us feel welcome. We were sitting with our bus tour group so didn't really have much opportunity to interact with the congregation in general. The church has a small bookstore in an upper level room. They were definitely not pushing for money in the offering plate or in the selling of product. We bought two choir CDs that we had planned on getting, and we look forward to listening to them.

May God continue to bless the ministries of the BTC.

amazing moving experience felt the love and shared it! Now I know why Obama had them at his inauguration they are great gospel singers

We visited the Brooklyn Tabernacle while on vacation in NYC. We felt right at home and enjoyed the service as if it were our own church.
The choir was superb and the sermon was spot on. Avalon was there and sang for an added bonus.
I would recommend a visit to any Christian or anyone interested in Christianity. ❤️

very spiritual / FUN ! amazing place to worship! great vibe! I love the Brooklyn Tabernacle! The people are amazing! pastors are amazing!

The Sanctuary of God is not a tour site. It is a place where mankind can give reference and have fellowship with God and where one can worship and intercede for their neighbor. If companies like this continue to treat the things of God in this manner they many suffer a consequence, now with that being said.. Everyone is welcome to come and give Jesus the respect He is worthy of. I say this with love and my Fathers House will be a house a prayer and worship. God bless you all

On a recent family trip, we had two full days in New York City. The wife recommended us to attend the prayer service at Brooklyn Tab. Awesome - too see so many people coming together to pray for their community. It was the highlight of our trip. So many diverse nations all together as one - maybe a little of what Heaven will look like one day. Anyway, a must stop.

Although I attend a church not too far from Brooklyn Tabernacle, I enjoy visiting this church from time to time. They have a great worship service and a very diverse congregation. Although it is enormous, I enjoy the service.

This is the one church our family is able to agree on - and we are not "religious" - the music and singing is great. Will uplift you, even if you are not a "believer." Hey, you don't have to know much about baseball to love going to a game, right? So go to this beautiful church (restored theater) and enjoy the energy and the singing. Everyone is very friendly.

Visited the Tabernacle and Pastor Jim Cymbala in October of 2018 and have followed the Tabernacle every Sunday on their Internet broadcast. The services are very spiritual beginning with the call for the the Lord Jesus Christ to be in attendance, followed by the exceptional Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir invoking the Holy Spirit in their musicality and professionalism. Shout out to Carol Cymbala, Choir Director and Hymn Writer! Praises! Pastor Jim Cymbala brings The Word from the NT and the OT, with his clear and concise sermons which has practical applications for living in the 21st century. The congregation consist of many nationalities, religious affiliations, and languages. Highly, highly recommend for your Sunday service when you visit New York.

No matter who you are, you won't be able to deny the special sense of peace you'll experience before, during and/or after the service. You will encounter the presence of God. If at some point during the service you find yourself crying for no apparent reason, know that you've encountered the eternal Lover of your soul. Bow down and worship Him. From the nursery to the seniors, everyone is ministered to and can call the Brooklyn Tabernacle home.

this is a "church" with 3 services on Sunday. it's a huge old theater, nicely renovated. the music is spectacular! everyone so nice and welcoming. the 9am service is easy to get into. the 11a and 1p you will stand in line outside waiting for the previous service to empty out.

Wonderful music, worship. Everyone was very welcoming and friendly. The sermon was on point! The were also commissioning volunteers to work with abused kids for a week long camp. It was wonderful to see the commitment to,the community and making a difference.