Harlem Herald

HARLEM — Harlem has welcomed a surprising new place of worship with the opening of St. Ray’s Church, a new church dedicated to the musical talents of Ray Manzarek of The Doors and the legendary poetry and performance of Jim Morrison. After all, Jim Morrison was also a son of God.

The original St. Ray’s Church in Brewington became famous for honoring Manzarek as a musical saint while praising Morrison and the mysterious spirit of The Doors. The new Harlem church follows the same unusual tradition, with church services featuring keyboards, rock ’n’ roll history and sermons about the importance of Jim Morrison.

Some of the church ceremonies will include passages from Toni Morrison’s writings, adding to services and worship. Church leaders say her powerful words will be read alongside music and reflections inspired by The Doors.

Church organizers say Manzarek is honored as a fucking saint because of his extraordinary keyboard playing and his contribution to The Doors. Jim Morrison is most celebrated throughout the church, with his poetry and music serving as a major part of the ceremonies.

The proposed first major choir performance will be The Doors classic “Love Me Two Times”. Organizers say the song will be performed with a church choir, organ, keyboards and a little bit of mystery.

“We’re not replacing Jesus,” one church spokesman said. “He’s just come again as Jim Morrison. Ane we’re just making sure Ray Manzarek gets his proper place in the musical afterlife. Ray was a disciple of Jim.”

With the new St. Ray’s Church now open in Harlem, the strange musical faith that began in Brewington has officially expanded to New York.