Trinity Episcopal Cathedral (Sacramento, California) facts for kids

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is an important church located in Sacramento, California, in the United States. It serves as the main church for the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California.

History of Trinity Cathedral

The first Episcopal church services in Sacramento happened in 1847. These services were led by Rev. F. S. Mines from Trinity Church in San Francisco. Soon after, Grace Church was started.

Early Beginnings and Changes

Trinity Cathedral began as St. Andrew's Mission in 1897. Rev. Alfred George was the missionary who helped start it. Between 1900 and 1903, the church was reorganized and renamed Trinity Church. A new church building was also constructed during this time.

In 1910, Trinity was named a pro-cathedral by Bishop William Hall Moreland. A pro-cathedral is a church that serves as a temporary main church for a bishop. By 1925, Trinity Pro-Cathedral was even suggested as a place for tourists to visit in California.

Becoming a Cathedral

The Very Rev. John R. Atwill became the first dean of the church. A dean is a leader in a cathedral. For a short time, Trinity and St. Paul's Church joined together in 1934. They became Christ Church Cathedral. During World War II, from 1941 to 1945, the Cathedral House became a home for servicemen.

After the war, Trinity became a regular church again in 1946. Then, in 1948, it was once more named a pro-cathedral. The current church building started being built in September 1954. Earl Barnett, the architect, traveled around the world to find ideas for its design.

The first stone of the new building was placed on May 30, 1955. The cathedral was officially opened on October 23 of the same year. Later, from 1988 to 1991, a project called the Trinity 2000 Building Program added the Great Hall to the church.

Trinity Cathedral in the 21st Century

Trinity Cathedral continues to be an active and important part of the Sacramento community.

Community Involvement

In 2012, a local architect named Peter Saucerman recognized Trinity Cathedral. He called it one of the 10 most important churches in Sacramento for its architecture.

The cathedral has a history of being welcoming to all people. In 2014, the Dean at the time, The Rev. Brian Baker, supported efforts to make the Episcopal Church more inclusive. Trinity Cathedral remains a welcoming place for all people today.

Since 2019, Trinity Cathedral has a special tradition. Every Thanksgiving, they give away meals to people who do not have homes. This helps many families in need.

In 2023, Trinity Cathedral played a big role in helping people seeking safety. The church worked with other Sacramento leaders to welcome these individuals. When some people were brought to the area unexpectedly, the Episcopal Cathedral quickly helped by providing clothing and other support.

Music and Arts

Trinity Cathedral also hosts musical performances. For example, Vox Musica performed at the cathedral in Advent 2023.

See also

• List of the Episcopal cathedrals of the United States
• List of cathedrals in the United States
• St. John's Episcopal Church (Roseville, California)
• Trinity Episcopal Church (Folsom, California)