We felt that the church participated in this mostly for financial benefit The guide also failed to provide any real in-depth knowledge about Harlem and its history. She talked a lot about music which is obviously her passion. She also talked a lot about the tip at the end and how we had to tip her and the driver separately. If you go on this tour, expect to have your hand constantly in your wallet! (We also go taken to see an old mansion which again, we had to pay to go in).
Our guide for this tour led us through the early history of Harlem, which our group appreciated. Being prepared for asn all female group (a la "Sister Act"} I was a little disappointed in having a male group but nevertheless we did enjopy the experience of the Gospel event.
Unfortunately the NY marathon was on the same day as the tour so we had a lot of difficulty getting to our bus. The arrangments were disorganised and some people got lost along the way. The tour was cut short as a result but the quick tour we did have was insightful and the tour leader was very informant and apologetic about our delay. She was very knowledgable so it was a shame to have missed out on a full tour with her. That said, we made it to the Church service in time and thoroughly enjoyed participating in it. There were a lot more tourists than there were locals but there was no doubting their genuineness.
I took the lunch option and while I expected more from the food, the show was a lot of fun.