As a stop on the Underground Railroad, a meeting place for gay rights movement leaders after the Stonewall Riots, and the location for the ordination of the first openly lesbian female priest in the Episcopal Diocese of New York, Holy Apostles has a long history of service to its community.

The Church of the Holy Apostles was designed in the Italianate style in 1848 by noted architect Minard Lafever and is considered among his best works. It is a New York City Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the Church of the Holy Apostles performs a critical service role in New York City, preparing and serving 1,000 hot meals every day for anyone in need of food, as well as offering 40,000 meals per week through their food pantry which also provides fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, protein items, and other ingredients to 750 families weekly. Beyond its comprehensive food programs, the Church offers shelter referrals, clothing, medical services, employment assistance, substance use rehabilitation support, and HIV/AIDS support.  

The National Fund grant of $250,000 with matching funds of at least $500,000 will support improvements to accessibility as well as HVAC, electrical, and fire suppression system upgrades in both the main church building and the adjoining Mission House, where most community programming occurs, to ensure that all community members are able to easily access services.   

Church of the Holy Apostles by Erik McGregor

First Church in Oberlin