Old Dutch Church — Attraction in City of Kingston

I'm not a religious individual. I believe in a higher power over all, and that being better people counts. But if I had to box myself into a religion, then as Ziggy Marley sings "Love, Is My Religion." But yesterday , my Uber driver, dropped me off in front of the Old Dutch Church. I looked at it, and wondered about it.

Something kept telling me to take a deeper look - those other senses & vibes many ignore or don't discuss. I looked at the promotional information outside, spun around once or twice, then decided to ask the young lady selling goods about what she was selling & where the Kingston Farmer's Market was (it was across the street). Her name's Gabby & she's a Vegan Chef - her tofu sandwiches are FABULOUS! And I HATED tofu. I asked her about the promos in front of the church, and briefly told her about myself (Creative, Published Poet, Self-Publisher with Amazon KDP for Poets Only, podcasting, my online magazine, & my licensed businesses, etc.). Gabby told me I was in the right place, so I decided to check the Old Dutch Church out. I passed a young man named James, selling HENNEPEN'S CBD oil on my way in. Once inside, I couldn't believe it. Did I mention that I was absolutely AWED???...

The architectural beauty of the outside & inside of the church is one thing. But the staff is friendly & full of joyful smiles, there's an art gallery upstairs, but they also rent out the church space...To & for ARTS & CREATIVITY!!! I met Pastor Rob Sweany, a very amazing individual. I felt like I knew him for years. I also noticed the gay pride flag in the church...and I smiled. I knew this church was old, but different. No, I'm not gay, lol. But I support the rights of those that are. I also have gay friends & family members. Being born in Brooklyn, NY to Jamaican parents, I've witnessed too many atrocities towards gay, bi, transgender, & the LBGQT community. I have issues with treating other inhumanely, period. Yes, I used to be homophobic. I was raised that way. But I purposely made it my business to change. So, kudos to the oldest church in Kingston, NY, the Old Dutch Church. I fully intend to partake in the Arts & Creativity they have to offer, and also share my Creativity and those of Creatives I know.

There's soooo much creative events & opportunities here, that I'm already tickled, about how much fun this'll be! Many thanks to the Old Dutch Church.

*P.S. There was a member there that helped me, took me around, shared Gabby's bread with me, introduced me to the pastor, & was so nice, taking her time to assist me. I forgot her name, but dhe knows who she is. A very special thank to you. I'm soooo writing your name down the next time....

I visited this church after I was finished with the Hudson river cruise and trolley museum although I understand the historical significance of this church and the history behind it being part of the revolutionary time period with American history dating back to the late 1600s early 1700s. It really needs to be open longer than 4 pm with someone dedicated to explaining to people about the whole history behind it, I was only able to visit the outside of it I do understand and appreciate the whole history explanation on the plaques displayed in the front area as well as hearing the hymns being played from the clock tower. As a devote catholic I'm saying this respectively please be careful as far as how you understand the religion aspect side of this...

This is a Must visit!

We popped in, and the pastor—-an actual descendant of the founders-gave us a warm, humorous, and all-around engaging personal tour! I’m not a religious person, but my dutch religious ancestry drew me in for a look. What I learned was about settlers’ grit and determination, silly early rivalries amidst the struggle for our nations survival, eye-popping beauty, and all unfolding into today’s dedication to service, tolerance, and community.

If my community had a church like this, maybe I would...