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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 very important Episcopal church located in Erie, Pennsylvania, United States. It is known as a "cathedral" because it serves as the main church for the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania. A diocese is like a special area or region that a bishop oversees.

A Look at St. Paul's History

How St. Paul's Began

The story of St. Paul's Church started a long time ago. It was founded on March 17, 1827. This date is also known as St. Patrick's Day! For many years, it was a regular church in Erie.

Becoming a Cathedral

Later, St. Paul's Church became even more important. On February 21, 1915, it was officially named the cathedral for the Diocese of Erie. This meant it became the central church for the entire region.

A New Name for the Diocese

In 1981, the name of the diocese changed. It went from the Diocese of Erie to the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Even with the new name, the Cathedral of St. Paul remained its main church.

What is a Cathedral?

A cathedral is more than just a large church building. It is the home church for a bishop. The bishop is a leader in the Episcopal Church. From the cathedral, the bishop helps guide many other churches in the diocese. It's a place for important services and gatherings for the whole region.

The Building's Style

The Cathedral of St. Paul is built in a style called Gothic Revival. This means its design looks like the grand, old Gothic churches from medieval times. Think of tall, pointed arches, large windows, and often impressive towers. This style makes the building look very majestic and traditional.

Who Leads the Cathedral?

The current bishop for the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania, who leads the cathedral, is the Rt. Rev. Sean W. Rowe. The person in charge of the day-to-day running of the cathedral is called the Dean. The current Dean is the Very Rev. John P. Downey.

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