bethesda by the sea

We had a few hours prior to our flight in West Palm Beach. We came upon this church near Palm Beach. While the interior is grand, it can’t quiet compare to the cathedrals of Europe. However, the pleasant surprise was the grounds on the outside. There is a big court and a small garden in the back. The garden has fish swimming in the ponds. Young kids will get a kick out of buying pellets for 25 cents to feed the fish. I drove all the way down to Ft Lauderdale to feed the tarpon at 15th St Fisheries and my daughter enjoyed this more!

The inside of Bethesda by the Sea Episcopal Church is awe-inspiring and worth a visit on its own. The stunningly-beautiful outside gardens and corridors are the true attraction. If you're staying in Palm Beach County and interested in architecture or history, this is a must-experience location.

The Boar's Head and Yule Log Festival, which is The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea’s beloved recreation of an ancient processional celebrating Epiphany returns each year on the first Sunday in early January. With a cast of over 150 performers the festival presents a medieval London Lord Mayor's Boar's Head banquet, complete with Beefeaters, Pipes & Drums, Lords & Ladies, strolling singers, jesters and dancers. The performance is a re-enactment of the sacred songs and telling of the Christmas and Epiphany story, carrying forth the light of Christ's birth to all people.This free event is one of the highlights of the Palm Beach holiday season and should not be missed.Our family has enjoyed this wonderful event for several years.

As the vibe in Palm beach has the feeling of Stay out of our rich Town; not so at BBTS the feeling is inclusion. Let us all be nice to one another. Having been to two weddings there and it is a great spot for that. Check out the building and the garden

We enjoyed both the interior of the church and the cloisters with its lovely garden of cascading ponds with Koi. You can feed the Koi by purchasing food from a little dispenser for 25 cents.

The buildings are simply beautiful and the gardens and grounds beautifully maintained and tranquil. One of the most beautiful US churches I've visited.

Worth a visit to see an amazingly designed church and hear a good sermon. Easter brought out celebs and divas. Quite the fashion show.

....I you are... then this is ground zero. So beautiful. Sermons are first rate - and it's very very special.

Bethesda-by-the-Sea is not to be missed. Founded 125 years ago, a little cabin church has grown into a jewel of the Southeast. Yes, the art, architecture, gardens, and koi pond are spectacular. The stained glass alone is worth the stop. But more importantly, you will likely experience a sense of calming spirit wash over you when you visit. This clergy and congregation have a blessed heart so if you are able to attend service, you will be warmly greeted and feel as if you have come home.

I'm on their mailing list for their concerts. The church has a professional choir, their organist is first class, and their visiting musicians excellent. The inside of the church makes you feel like you're somewhere in England. Very charming and unusual for South Florida.

In the non denominational churches I attend, they seem to consider art in the church as a waste of money that could be spent to serve God,but I think this church demonstrates beauty has a purpose and place in worship. The gardens move you to feel their beauty and feel the presence of God. The stained glass and archicture within move one to wonder both at their beauty and in considering the subject matter they portray. Wonder and gratefulness to a God that inspires so much beauty and the devotion of those who loved Him to sacrifice to make and give it. Loved the courtyard,griffin.. Is that one of the living creatures from Ezekiel? The gorgeous bourgeonvilla. Can't comment on services as my husband and I both work Sundays and couldnt attend one. But those people we did meet were friendly. This church also has a massive outside nativity set up at Christmas. Highly recommend a visit here if in area

A wonderful Christmas time experience where the whole congregation participated. It is an annual event and this has been our third year.

Full disclosure: I was so taken by the majesty of this church that when we moved here, I became a member. I visited the church for the first time in the summer of 2013 as a curiosity seeker. Hailed as "the most beautiful church in America," the place where Donald Trump and Michael Jordan married, I wanted to see what all the brouhaha was about. It turned out, this is holy--very holy--ground. With a 125- year history and standing on the shoulders of the giants who came before us, Bethesda By The Sea has an abiding reverence for the Bible, for liturgy, for the Book of Common Prayer and for its church family. Father James is one of my favorite ministers--ever. A humble man of God, he is an earthly treasure! Bethesda hit every one of my touch points: the music is of the highest level of professionalism, and moves me to tears most Sundays. The flowers and gardens are stunningly beautiful. Be sure to walk the gardens...and check out the koi pond, too. if you are visiting Palm Beach and are looking for a place to worship, please do come by. We would love to have you! The main service is at 11:00am. And if you are here during the week, please feel free to reverently walk the grounds. You will feel, as I do, that I am indeed, walking on holy ground. MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

The previous viewers have pretty much said it all. This is a must see 30-45 minute stop of you're in the area. The church has beautiful stained glass and hanging lanterns inside, a quiet courtyard and garden terrace in the back. Don't forget to check out the fish and lily pads in the back.

This Episcopal church sits at the busy corner of Barton Ave. and South County Road. It's impressive in design and size for a small town. It has formal gardens behind it. Tours of the church are provided given but check the office (561) 655-4554 for the days and times.