The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany

On a crisp autumn day in 1839, a procession led by Bishop Henry Ustick Onderdonk marched through the heart of Philadelphia. Their destination? The site where The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany would soon rise. This wasn’t just another church. It was a symbol of faith, ambition, and a touch of controversy. The committee behind St. Luke’s Church had grand visions, reflected in their chosen architect, Thomas Somerville Stewart, known for his Greek Revival masterpieces. Imagine their surprise when their charter was initially denied. The reason? The Diocese thought they were dedicating too much to the “education of Youth and the Support of the Poor.” After assurances that these funds would serve the local community, The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany was officially recognized in May 1839. Constructed between 1839 and 1840, the Church’s Greek Revival grandeur was evident. However, the planned 200-foot steeple, deemed too expensive, was never built. Inside, pure white dominated, from the elaborate carvings to the organ itself. The chancel, a focal point, underwent several transformations. It was redesigned, extended, and adorned with mosaics depicting St. Luke and symbols of The Epiphany. In 1898, The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany welcomed another congregation, The Church of The Epiphany, merging their legacies and resources. This union, however, wasn’t without its challenges. The leadership dynamics created some initial friction, but the church persevered. The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany continued to evolve, reflecting the changing times. The arrival of the Rev. David McConnell Steele in 1904 marked a turning point. Recognizing the shift in the neighborhood’s demographics, he spearheaded outreach programs, transforming the church into a haven for a diverse and transient population. The Church of Saint Luke and The Epiphany stands today, not just as a testament to its enduring history, but also as a beacon of inclusivity and service in the heart of Philadelphia.