Business Details
Welcome to Christ Lutheran Church in New York, NY
Christ Lutheran Church has been a spiritual anchor in New York City since 1991, offering traditional worship rooted in Lutheran heritage while embracing inclusivity and community engagement. Our congregation believes in encountering God's unchanging love amid life's changes, fostering a welcoming environment where all are valued. We prioritize community service through initiatives like food donations for the hungry, environmental stewardship programs, and partnerships with organizations addressing domestic violence and social justice. Our Sunday worship services feature Holy Communion at 1:00 PM, creating space for reflection and connection. Pastor Brooke L. Swertfager brings decades of experience, having studied at Union Theological Seminary with renowned scholars, and leads a congregation actively involved in local outreach.We support neighborhood causes through food drives, educational partnerships, and advocacy for marginalized communities. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in programs like FreeRice.com collaborations that combine intellectual engagement with hunger relief. As a Reconciling in Christ congregation, we champion full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in church life. Our historical ties to Seafarers International House demonstrate our global perspective while maintaining deep roots in Manhattan's cultural fabric. Through initiatives like the Chelsea Challenge ice hockey tournament, we build community connections that transcend traditional church boundaries.
Services
Sunday Worship
Holy Communion
Community Outreach
Environmental Initiatives
Pastoral Care
Highlights and features
- We offer traditional Lutheran worship with inclusive values
- Our congregation actively supports local food pantries and shelters
- We maintain partnerships with domestic violence support organizations
- Our pastor has over 30 years of Manhattan ministry experience
- We host community-building initiatives like the Chelsea Challenge hockey tournament
Associations and certifications
- ReconcilingWorks
Services
Sunday Worship
Traditional Lutheran worship services held weekly with Holy Communion at 1:00 PM. Our liturgical services maintain historical continuity while remaining relevant to modern urban life. Pastor Swertfager delivers sermons that connect scripture with contemporary issues facing New Yorkers.
Community Outreach
Comprehensive outreach programs addressing food insecurity, domestic violence, and social justice. We operate food drives, partner with local shelters, and support international relief efforts through initiatives like FreeRice.com. Our programs emphasize practical compassion and systemic change.
Pastoral Care
Personalized spiritual guidance and counseling services for individuals and families. Our clergy provide hospital visitation, crisis support, and life coaching grounded in Lutheran theology. We maintain partnerships with medical centers and social service organizations.
Environmental Initiatives
Sustainability efforts including eco-friendly supply procurement and environmental education. Our 'Christ is Green' program promotes responsible stewardship through practical actions and community awareness campaigns focused on urban sustainability.
Youth Programs
Engagement opportunities for young people through sports, education, and community service. Our hockey programs and academic partnerships help youth develop character and leadership skills while fostering intergenerational connections within the congregation.
People
The Rev. Brooke L. Swertfager
Pastor
Ordained in 1988, Pastor Swertfager holds degrees from Concordia College and Union Theological Seminary. She has served Christ Lutheran Church since 1991, specializing in urban ministry and interfaith dialogue. Her leadership combines academic rigor with practical compassion.
Micah Young
Organist
Music director responsible for enhancing worship experiences through traditional liturgical music. Micah brings musical expertise that complements our congregation's appreciation for historic Lutheran choral traditions.
Questions
What time are Sunday services?
Our main Sunday service with Holy Communion begins at 1:00 PM at 334 East 20th Street.
Is childcare available during services?
While we don't have formal childcare, children are welcome in our main worship space. Our congregation values intergenerational participation.
What outreach programs do you offer?
We support food pantries, domestic violence helplines, and international relief through FreeRice.com partnerships. Our Chelsea Challenge hockey tournament raises awareness for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
How can I get pastoral counseling?
Contact Pastor Swertfager through our main office number (212-475-5906) to schedule a meeting for spiritual guidance or counseling.
Are visitors welcome at your services?
Absolutely! We welcome all who seek spiritual connection, with no expectation to join or donate. Come as you are.
Videos
