Bethel Gospel Assembly

We wanted to attend a typical gospel mass, but didn't want to do it as part of a typical tour so we had a look online and this church was suggested. It faces the Marcus Garvey Park between 120th and Madison Avenues. My traveling companion didn't want to go too far north of Harlem, so this was a great place as it is located very close to Central Park, so we could walk there. We arrived early enough to sit in the second row. At the beginning, all the people who are in the church for the first time are asked to stand up so the congregation could welcome us with a song and a handshake. It was exciting, and we felt really welcome, but the sermon was a bit long and repetitive for those of us who are more used to shorter masses.