St. Stephen's Episcopal Pro-Cathedral (Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral |
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 Location in Pennsylvania
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| 41°14′48″N 75°53′04″W / 41.24653°N 75.88439°W | |
| Location | 35 S. Franklin St. Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania |
| Country | United States |
| Denomination | Episcopal Church in the United States of America |
| History | |
| Founded | 1817 |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Charles M. Burns |
| Style | Romanesque Revival |
| Completed | 1897 |
| Specifications | |
| Number of spires | One |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Bethlehem |
St. Stephen's Episcopal Pro-Cathedral is a beautiful and historic church. It is located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, a city in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. This church is special because it serves as a "Pro-Cathedral" for the Episcopal Diocese of Bethlehem.
A "Pro-Cathedral" is a church that acts like a main cathedral for a short time or for certain events. The main cathedral for this area is the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. St. Stephen's helps support the diocese's work.
A Look at Its History
The story of St. Stephen's Church began a long time ago in 1817. The church community has grown and changed over the years. The building you see today is actually the fifth church building for this group of worshippers.
The construction of the current church building finished in 1897. It was officially dedicated and opened for services in 1899. A talented architect named Charles M. Burns, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, designed the church.
Architectural Style and Design
St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral was built in the Romanesque Revival style. This style became popular in the 19th century. It takes inspiration from the old Romanesque buildings of Europe.
Romanesque Revival buildings often have strong, heavy walls and round arches. They can look a bit like castles or old European churches. This style gives St. Stephen's a grand and lasting appearance.
St. Stephen's Place in History
St. Stephen's Pro-Cathedral is not just a place of worship. It is also recognized for its historical importance. The church is part of the River Street Historic District.
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 10, 1985. This means the building is protected and valued for its history and architecture. It helps tell the story of Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding area.
