Profile

A cavernous religious enclave, St. Bart's is more than just another ornate chapel in midtown. Best known as a cultural hub for choral concerts and theater performances, the Protestant Episcopal church also has a strong charitable component with a soup kitchen, a shelter, a food pantry and a medical van. Furthermore, the community center runs a dance studio, a swimming pool, a pre-school, and a summer camp. Founded in 1835, the parish itself is now in its third location, a building revered for its Stanford White triple portal, and inlaid floor and ceiling mosaics. The church, which can accommodate up to 1200 worshippers, boasts the city's largest pipe organ (complete with intricate hand-carved woodwork). Non-practitioners have been known to enjoy St. Bart's Cafe with its American Nouveau menu and its terrace seating. — Lori Cole

Free tours every Sunday at 12:15 p.m.; for group tours, call 212-378-0211 or email tours@stbarts.org.

Wedding Planner
This Midtown landmark is best suited for couples who want the church to play a hands-on role in helping them plan a traditional ceremony. The church has music directors and a florist, and offers several options for using the chapel or other adjoining rooms for the reception. Call Linda Bayer at 212-378-0254