Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church in Fort Greene is trying to raise $3.5 million to restore its historic sanctuary. The space is not only a place of worship, but also a vital hub for community events, social justice programs and performances.
In August 2023, part of the ceiling collapsed, forcing the sanctuary to close. The Opening Doors Campaign will fund the ceiling restoration, make the sanctuary fully ADA accessible and repair the church’s 115-year-old pipe organ, which currently works at only 30% capacity.
“In the midst of so many changes in our city -- from gentrification to welcoming new immigrants -- we believe that the legacy of this Sanctuary as a space of safety and community -- can continue to serve the spiritual and material needs of Fort Greene and Brooklyn to embolden and encourage us to work together to build a more just and inclusive world," said Rev. Emily Brewer, pastor of Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church.
To help launch the campaign, the Buckhorn Association of Brooklyn awarded LAPC a $30,000 matching grant. Every donation made before Dec. 31, 2025, will be matched dollar for dollar up to $60,000. Since the ceiling collapse, services have continued in the Underwood Chapel, accessible from 85 South Oxford St.
In early 2024, LAPC received a $25,000 emergency grant from the National Fund for Sacred Places. That support made it possible for the church's architectural firm to complete a full inspection of the ceiling to determine the cause of the collapse and outline needed repairs. The work includes securing and replastering the ceiling, removing heat-damaging light fixtures, restoring decorative elements and fixing cracks along the arch and walls. The project will also add ADA-compliant features to ensure full accessibility.
The pipe organ, originally built in 1910 using parts from an 1886 model, has long needed major repair. Temporary fixes have kept it going, but it is now in poor condition. With the sanctuary already closed for construction, now is the right time to restore the instrument to its full potential.
To select a donation option, click here.
