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Cathedral of St. Paul (Erie, Pennsylvania) facts for kids

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Cathedral of St. Paul
Erie, Pennsylvania (8482147882).jpg
Cathedral of St. Paul (Erie, Pennsylvania) is located in Pennsylvania
Cathedral of St. Paul (Erie, Pennsylvania)
Location in Pennsylvania
42°07′41.15″N 80°05′15.42″W / 42.1280972°N 80.0876167°W / 42.1280972; -80.0876167
Location 134 W. Seventh St.
Erie, Pennsylvania
Country United States
Denomination Episcopal Church in the United States of America
History
Founded March 17, 1827
Architecture
Style Gothic Revival
Administration
Diocese Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania

The Cathedral of St. Paul is a special church located in Erie, Pennsylvania, in the United States. It's an Episcopal cathedral, which means it's the main church for a large area called the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania.

This church, originally named St. Paul's Church, started on St. Patrick's Day in 1827. It became a cathedral on February 21, 1915. At that time, it was the cathedral for the Diocese of Erie. Later, in 1981, the diocese changed its name to Northwestern Pennsylvania.

What is a Cathedral?

A cathedral is more than just a church. It is the main church for a diocese. A diocese is a large area managed by a bishop. The bishop's special chair, called a cathedra, is found in the cathedral. This is where the word "cathedral" comes from.

History of St. Paul's

How it Began

St. Paul's Church was founded a long time ago. It started on March 17, 1827. This was on St. Patrick's Day. It began as a regular church for the Episcopal community in Erie.

Becoming a Cathedral

Over many years, the church grew. On February 21, 1915, it became a cathedral. This meant it was now the main church for the diocese. The diocese was first called the Diocese of Erie.

Name Change of the Diocese

In 1981, the name of the diocese changed. It became the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania. The Cathedral of St. Paul continues to be its main church.

Architecture and Style

The Cathedral of St. Paul is built in the Gothic Revival style. This style became popular in the 1800s. It looks back to the grand Gothic architecture of medieval Europe.

What is Gothic Revival?

Gothic Revival buildings often have tall, pointed arches. They also feature large windows with beautiful stained glass. You might see towers or spires reaching towards the sky. This style makes buildings look very impressive and historic.

Who Leads the Cathedral?

The cathedral has important leaders. The main leader of the diocese is the bishop. The current bishop is the Right Reverend Sean W. Rowe. The person who manages the day-to-day activities of the cathedral is called the dean. The Very Reverend Melinda Hall is the current dean.

See also

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