Northwest - Churches & Temples
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Bishop's House


Gothic revival building
Southwest Stark Street
(between Southwest Second and Third avenues)
Portland, OR 97201
+1 503 275 9750/ +1 800 962 3700 (Portland Visitors Association)
Catholic Archbishop Blanchet originally lived in this house, which was built in 1879. The Gothic Revival-style building had divine beginnings but through the years it was also the location of a speakeasy, architectural studio, a sign company and is currently the home for the Al-Amir Lebanese Restaurant. This ornate structure has been well preserved and boasts eight arched windows framed with elaborately carved moldings. The light brown exterior and red trim blend in well with the other historic buildings in this part of downtown area and is a sound example of Portland's historic past.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bishop's House photo by Steve Sanders
Photo: Steve Sanders
Bishop's House photo by Doctor Dearborn
Photo: Doctor Dearborn
 

 
Chapel of Saint Ignatius


Wonderful architecture
901 12th Avenue
Seattle University
Seattle, WA 98122-1090
+1 206 296 6000
http://www.seattleu.edu/chapel
This Seattle University chapel is designed to be entered. It is very modern from without, and once inside you are cast into an otherworldly atmosphere of reflecting light, which filters down from above and mingles with the pool and the beeswax that is woven into the walls. The church also hosts an annual convention of over 40,000 people from diverse backgrounds, who gather to discuss theological matters. Liturgy takes place at 12:05p M-F, 11a and 9p Su (when school's in session).

Review © 2007, Wcities
Chapel of Saint Ignatius photo by yvonnezh
Photo: yvonnezh
Chapel of Saint Ignatius photo by kymtyr
Photo: kymtyr
Chapel of Saint Ignatius photo by elisa renouard
Photo: elisa renouard
Chapel of Saint Ignatius photo by Keith Alnwick
Photo: Keith Alnwick
 

 
First Christian Church


Peace and Tranquility
1315 Southwest Broadway
Portland, OR 97201
+1 503 228 9211
http://www.teleport.com/~first...
firstc@teleport.com
Located in the heart of downtown, this church has exhibited a peaceful aura for years. The original congregation was formed in 1878, and this beautiful church, erected in 1923, was the fourth one built. The church was remodeled in 1985. Visitors will recognize the church from its red roof and soaring white columns. Breathtaking stained glass windows and a German grand piano are among the eye-catching details inside. The church is open to everyone and participates in community outreach programs.

Review © 2007, Wcities
First Christian Church photo by Jim Arnold
Photo: Jim Arnold
First Christian Church photo by Sarah Bartell
Photo: Sarah Bartell
 

 
First Congregational Church


Venetian Gothic
1126 Southwest Park Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
+1 503 228 7219
Tucked smack in the middle of Portland's downtown area, this 19th-century church is a wonderful example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Speakers, concerts and, of course, church services are all offered here, but the grounds and interior can be viewed weekdays. The stonework is something to see, especially the magnificent tower and checkerboard-patterned walls. The church is located near MAX light rail, Pioneer Courthouse Square and the Portland Art Museum.

Review © 2007, Wcities
First Congregational Church photo by Tim Wrye
Photo: Tim Wrye
First Congregational Church photo by zytsef
Photo: zytsef
First Congregational Church photo by Tom Turnbull
Photo: Tom Turnbull
 

 
First Presbyterian Church


Modern downtown temple
1013 Eighth Ave
Seattle, WA 98104
+1 206 624 0644
http://www.firstpres.org
firstcontact@firstpres.org
Like the Plymouth Congregational Church, this is a modern downtown church eager to bring in the casual visitor. The rectangle-shaped box of a building usually sports a yellow and purple banner on its downtown-facing side, inviting all to stop in. If you do come by, you might be surprised to learn that this 1960s concrete thing is home to one of Seattle's oldest congregations, founded 130 years ago. The calm, welcoming building is open daily during the week to visitors.

Review © 2007, Wcities
First Presbyterian Church photo by C Smith
Photo: C Smith
 

 
First Presbyterian Church-Portland


One of the oldest
1200 Southwest Alder Street
Portland, OR 97205
+1 503 228 7331
http://www.fpcpdx.org/
info@fpcpdx.org
This church's congregation was first formed by a group of 10 immigrants in the mid-1850s, and the current building was erected in 1887. The church is devoted to reaching out to and bettering the community through volunteering, providing child care and helping the homeless. This is just part of its extensive mission statement, which also includes fellowship in God's name. The magnificent church is also memorable because of its enormous steeple and historical appeal.

Review © 2007, Wcities
First Presbyterian Church-Portland photo by Dan Haneckow
Photo: Dan Haneckow
 

 
First United Methodist Church


Pantheon-style downtown church
811 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
+1 206 622 7278
http://www.firstchurchseattle....
kathlyn@firstchurchseattle.org
Surrounded by the likes of the 76-story Columbia Tower, the classical dome of this church often seems lost. But it never looks unsure of itself. Short, squat, and perfectly square, the church has an internal circle, serene with filtered light and stained glass. It's a lovely, calm setting for concerts (early music being a popular series) and literary events. And it's a nice break from office mayhem during the week.

Review © 2007, Wcities
First United Methodist Church photo by Tamara Pickrell
Photo: Tamara Pickrell
 

 
Fremont Baptist Church


Friendly church
717 North 36th Street
Seattle, WA 98103
+1 206 632 7994
Founded in 1892, this church is housed in a historic red brick building built in 1924. Erected in 1950, the white sign on the church roof can be seen from the Fremont Bridge as you cross the canal into Fremont. Adult Sunday school is held at 9:30a Sundays, with worship services following at 10:30a. Another service takes place at 6p. Sunday school for children is held during the Sunday service.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fremont Baptist Church photo by Michael Lehmkuhl
Photo: Michael Lehmkuhl
Fremont Baptist Church photo by Lisa Castrogiovanni
Photo: Lisa Castrogiovanni
Fremont Baptist Church photo by Richard Reusser
Photo: Richard Reusser
 

 
Grotto Festival of Lights


Garden of Lights
NE 85th Avenue
(at Sandy Boulevard)
Portland, OR 97220
+1 503 261 2400
http://www.thegrotto.org/event...
This event thrills crowds with more than 250,000 lights that cover the garden-filled grounds of Portland's historic Grotto. Children will adore the petting zoo and puppet shows. Adults will want to check out some of the 135 indoor concerts or peruse the gift shop for last-minute holiday shopping. In the spirit of the season, biblical renditions are highlighted, and food and drinks are plentiful. Admission: $7 for adults, $3 for children 3-12, children under 2 are free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Grotto Festival of Lights photo by L. Roxana Negreanu
Photo: L. Roxana Negreanu
 

 
Mount Zion Baptist Church


Enormous congregation
1634 19th Avenue
(at East Madison Street)
Seattle, WA 98122
+1 206 322 6500
http://www.mountzion.net
mountzion@qwest.net
This church, which boasts one of the largest congregations in the city, was led by the beloved activist Reverend Samuel McKinney until his retirement last year. The church seats over 1,000 and fills up every week. The 100-member choir has several critically acclaimed recordings to its credit. If you're looking for something to do on a Sunday morning, feel free to drop in, as the visitors that pour in from all over Western Washington every week are all always welcome.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mount Zion Baptist Church photo by J Marchelle Moore
Photo: J Marchelle Moore
Mount Zion Baptist Church photo by Andrew A. Powell
Photo: Andrew A. Powell
 

 
Old Church


Oldest church in Oregon
1422 Southwest 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97201
+1 503 222 2031
One of the most remarkable historic churches and landmarks in Portland is this church, built in 1883 and outlasting any other church. Both the interior and exterior of the church will amaze visitors with its detailed gothic architecture and such beautiful features as Victorian furniture and the ancient Hook and Hastings Tracker organ. Admission is free, and self-guided tours are available at the times and days listed. Concerts are given at noon on Wednesdays.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Old Church photo by macflisak
Photo: macflisak
Old Church photo by Amber Gibbs
Photo: Amber Gibbs
Old Church photo by Shad Bolling
Photo: Shad Bolling
 

 
Saint James Cathedral


Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle
804 Ninth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
+1 206 622 3559
http://www.stjames-cathedral.org
lbrouse@stjames-cathedral.org
This majestic cathedral is located in the First Hill area, overlooking downtown Seattle. With its elegant facade and double steeples, the cathedral epitomizes quiet grace. Opened only on selected holy days, the two new bronze ceremonial doors, by renowned German artist Ulrich Henn, tell the story of the great procession of the human family towards the heavenly city. The cathedral holds a full schedule of services. Mass is offered several times a day all week. Other events vary. The cathedral bookstore sells a wide variety of items, including Christmas and Easter supplies.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Saint James Cathedral photo by Lynn Birks-Graziano
Photo: Lynn Birks-Graziano
Saint James Cathedral photo by Jonathan Hanlon
Photo: Jonathan Hanlon
 

 
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral


Astonishing architecture
1245 10th Avenue East
Seattle, WA 98102
+1 206 323 0300
http://www.saintmarks.org
stmarkssea@aol.com
This massive church, affectionately known as the "Holy Box," dominates the view from the west side of Lake Union with its golden domed roof. The church, dedicated in 1931, was a bit of a disappointment to some as the Great Depression undermined the grand original plans. Only a decade later the bank foreclosed on the church and the United States Army Artillery used it for two years. The congregation regained it and on Palm Sunday of 1947, the paid mortgage was burned before the alter. From the inside, the new rose window casts colors on the floor throughout the day, and the spare lines of its interior can be an overwhelming experience for many. Visit here if you're on an architectural or religious tour of Seattle. There's also a gift shop.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral photo by Nicholas Beaudrot
Photo: Nicholas Beaudrot
 

 
Temple de Hirsch Sinai


Beautiful Reform Jewish temple
1511 East Pike Street
Seattle, WA 98122
+1 206 323 8486
http://www.tdhs-nw.org/
ajbamccall@aol.com
This Reform Jewish temple does a beautiful job of combining the past with the present, both secular and sacred. The concrete main building has a 1960s space-age look to it, but the parking lot is lined with fluted Hellenistic columns. The congregation is devout, but a good portion of the temple's funds go towards Jewish heritage and studies as well as religion. The library holds not only books and papers, but more than 500 films on all things Jewish. And anyone is welcome to come study and learn.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Temple de Hirsch Sinai photo by Patrick Meins
Photo: Patrick Meins
 

 
Tualatin Plains Presbyterian Church


Eight-sided steeple
30685 Northwest Scotch Church Road
Hillsboro, OR 97124
+1 503 648 9573
Built in 1878, this historic Tualatin Plains church is a monument dating back to pioneer days, and one of the only churches left from that era. The architecturally pleasing building features a unique eight-sided steeple. Today, with much pride and care from the community, the church is open for both services and tours, which must be scheduled ahead of time. From Portland, head west on Highway 26, following the signs toward North Plains. Take a left on Jackson School Road, then another left on Scotch Church Road.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Tualatin Plains Presbyterian Church photo by Johan Mathiesen
Photo: Johan Mathiesen
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this City:Northwest
Northwest - Attractions & Landmarks
Northwest - Historic Buildings
Northwest - Churches & Temples
Northwest - Lakes, Rivers & Beaches
Northwest - Parks & Gardens
Northwest - Panorama
Northwest - Museums
Northwest - Events

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