St. Paul the Apostle Church — Attraction in New York

This Church is my Sanctuary whenever I need to sit alone and do reflection before I go to school (a block away from this Church). I feel serene, peaceful, and charged again. No joke. I really miss the old me, a real Catholic. I was 6th grade when I had to run away from my village just to avoid being talk of the town: someone taught me how to kiss French toast, err, French kiss) and he told about it to his friend who told everyone else 🤦 I was so tender and young__the only solution I could think of was to moved in with my Aunt and her family of two who lives 45 minutes drive from my to village.

. Her late husband was very strict, and he was a Baptist,: anyone who lives in his house is bound to follow his rules and one of them rules was going to his Church even if you you are a Catholic.

😭It was very hard for me then: at 12 years old I was nursing a broken puppy love and can't practice Catholicism. And I was their made in exchange of free board and lodging and help on my schooling 😭

And a month later, they adopted an infant. A baby girl. My Aunt and her late husband owns a wet market and they stayed there till 1:30-2 am. They left house around 4-4:30 and I was left at home taking care of three kids_an infant girl, a first and second graders boys. Prayers kept me strong and resilient.

It was amazing though: at the age of 12 years old, my Aunt trusted me her three young kids, instructed me to bring the boys to the children park for an hour or so, of what to cook and how to of cook it. And how to feed the kids. Instruction that she never repeated: she instructed me carefully and seriously__while looking at my eyes and I was looking to hers while...

The Priests have homilies that are positive, relevant, and often amusing. The two that I have seen offer mass are also rather friendly people.

In short, the Church building is positively breathtaking.

Recently, I went to what is listed as the "Young Adult" Mass, Sunday at 5:15, which features a choir and musicians of that age group, and seems to be catered to the same group, though all ages were there, and in droves; it's clearly very popular.

I thought it was dreadful.

There was not a moment's peace the entire time. I could not focus on what I was there to do because I was trapped in a Diocesan production of Godspell. The whole congregation was forced into some poppy, modern-Broadway-style tune about every 3 minutes for what turned out to be over an hour. (Disclosure: I'm a Broadway musician, so, it isn't the style that bothers me). Every break there was a tune. Every response it seemed, was sung by this group. No prayerful silence, no contemplation, no feeling of connection with God. I couldn't get out of there fast enough.

I've been to other mass times there and they're better, but still, for similar reasons, not really my taste. So, if what I've described is what you're into, this is a 5-star place. For me,...

Another spectacular church in Manhattan. The exterior is grand and prominent looking with handsome stone features. The church can be easily spotted from Columbus Circle and surrounding areas since it is on a corner. Once inside, you will be amazed by how large this church is. The arches are stately and ornate. The stations of the cross are beautiful as are the various shrines throughout the church. The baptismal font is elegant along with the stained glass. Put this on your list if you are looking for awesome churches in NYC! It is a beautiful place to spend time with the Lord since it is so quiet and peaceful inside. You won't be...