Church & Chapel Tour

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Learn about the oldest buildings of worship in Bethlehem that are still inspiring visitors today!

Back by popular demand, the Church & Chapel Tour begins in the oldest building in town, Bethlehem’s 1741 Gemeinhaus, where the Moravians who founded Bethlehem first lived and worshiped over 270 years ago.  Discover the traditions behind the Moravian worship service, including the long-standing emphasis on music in Bethlehem.

Hear the in-depth story of America’s oldest Bach Choir, the Bach Choir of Bethlehem and its renowned founder J. Fred Wolle.  Wolle led the choir in America’s first performance of Bach’s Mass in B Minor which led to Central Moravian Church’s designation as a National Landmark of Music.

Next, walk the very path the Bethlehem founders took through the Gemeinhaus into the 1751 Old Chapel.  Here, in the 2nd place of worship, visitors will get a chance to experience this rarely open historic structure and learn about the layout of a traditional Moravian worship space, the separation of the congregation into a “choir system”, and be enamored by the simple elegance of the chapel’s design.

After touring this popular wedding venue, guests will be guided next door to Central Moravian Church.  Once inside, your tour guide will give a history of the construction and alterations to the church over time.  Discover what exactly is holding up the iconic belfry, hear the chilling story of the fire that almost destroyed this historic structure, and experience the overwhelming architectural beauty Central Moravian affords.

Tour will be offered Sunday, February 13 and 27 at 2pm and end at 3:30.

To purchase tickets online: https://historicbethlehem.webconnex.com/churchandchapel2016

To purchase tickets over the phone: call 1-800-360-TOUR

Price: $12