ABOUT
We are an independent, non-denominational church that holds historic orthodox Christian beliefs including the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed. The Bible—God’s infallible word—is our highest authority for church doctrine and practice.
“Holding fast to the Head” (Colossians 2:19)
“Every joint supplies” (Ephesians 4:16)
These two phrases reflect our vision as a local expression of the church of Jesus Christ. We look to Him alone as our leader. And we believe God is most glorified when every believer participates and serves, not just a select few.
We seek to express Christ-centered worship, grow in biblical truth as disciples of Jesus, love one another, and proclaim the gospel. Our meetings may not always be predictable or polished, but we know that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) and calls every believer to encourage one another (Colossians 3:16).
We welcome you to visit and see for yourself! You can also contact the deacons and elders here with any questions. (link to connect@manhattangathering.org)
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our Sunday meetings are centered on the Lord’s Table: remembering and celebrating Jesus’ sacrificial death (Luke 22:19-20). This is an open time in which all believers, as priests in the household of God (1 Peter 2:5), may offer prayers of thanksgiving and request songs of praise to sing together. All are welcome to attend, and those who profess salvation in Jesus Christ may partake of the bread and cup with us, in accordance with 1 Corinthians 11.
We then give an opportunity for individuals to share thanksgiving offerings: testimonies or other creative expressions of God’s faithfulness in our lives. In the second half of the meeting, there is a teaching from God’s Word, typically given by one of the church elders. We often share a meal together afterwards.
The Body of Christ is about life together, not just church meetings, so we endeavor to fellowship and build community throughout the week. We hold weekly Bible studies (Monday nights) and prayer meetings (Thursday nights), open to all. On Friday nights, our young adults (roughly ages 18-30) meet for fellowship and Bible study.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there a dress code?
No, please come as you are. Most dress casually.
Are there children’s programs?
Yes, Sunday school and nursery (ages 2-17) are available during the Sunday message time. For our time of worship around the Lord’s Table, which precedes the message time, all from youngest to oldest worship together.
What style of musical worship do you have?
Multiple styles: from classic hymns, to modern choruses, to our own original tunes. Our aim is not to focus on particular musical traditions or tastes, but to honor God through simple, spontaneous, and heartfelt praise. What most people find distinctive about our worship is not the musical style or skill, but rather the freedom for anyone to call out the song or hymn they want to sing, as led by the Holy Spirit.
Are you affiliated with any denomination or tradition?
We are completely independent and not affiliated with any denomination. However, we embrace our oneness in Jesus with bible-believing Christians everywhere, including here in NYC. We also have close informal relationships with other church groups who share a similar vision of worship and structure.
Who is your pastor?
We are led by elders who perform many of the functions associated with pastors, particularly overseeing and preaching. We also have deacons with responsibility for church administration. We rarely use titles, but often refer to each other as “brother” or “sister,” as equal members of the Body of Christ under His Headship.
Who is welcome to attend?
We welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, whether you have been a lifelong Christian or are merely curious about the faith. We do not have any official requirements to join, nor a church membership system.
Do you have a mailing list or other ways to keep in touch?
Please email connect@manhattangathering.org to be added to our email list for weekly announcements and other updates. For those who consider Manhattan Christian Gathering their church family, we also use other email lists and Slack for further communication and coordination.