The soaring spires of St Paul’s Cathedral pierce the San Diego sky. A majestic sight isn’t it?
St Paul’s Cathedral isn’t just a beautiful building. It’s the heart of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego a place steeped in history and faith. Its story begins long ago with the city’s first Protestant church. That church was founded in Old Town in 1853. It later became Holy Trinity Parish. Then in 1887 it was reborn as St Paul’s.
Growth brought the need for a larger space. In 1919 the congregation purchased land near Balboa Park. They envisioned a grand cathedral a testament to their faith. They chose Philip Frohman a renowned architect of neo-Gothic style. He designed the National Cathedral in Washington DC. Frohman designed St Paul’s to be impressive. The Great Hall was finished in 1929 but the main church faced delays. The Great Depression slowed construction considerably. Groundbreaking for the church itself finally happened in 1950. The first service was held in 1951. Even then the building wasn’t complete. Sections were added over the years a chapel an office wing. Finally in 1973 the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego was formed. St Paul’s Cathedral became its official seat in 1985.
St Paul’s Cathedral is more than just stone and glass. It’s a vibrant community. They call themselves the Cathedral 4 the City. Their mission blends ancient liturgy and modern social justice initiatives. People of all faiths or no faith are welcome. Each Sunday you hear the warm welcome: whoever you are wherever you are on your faith journey you are welcome here. This open inclusivity is reflected in their open communion.
The Cathedral’s music program is renowned. Canon Martin Green leads three choirs. The adult choir sings at the 1030 Sunday Eucharist. The Cathedral Choristers and St Cecilia’s Choir alternate at Evensong. The cathedral hosts public concerts. It also boasts an extensive music library. Its Aeolian-Skinner organ a historical instrument was restored in 2012. A temporary digital organ was used during the restoration process.
St Paul’s Cathedral has a strong commitment to social justice. They partner with the Uptown Community to help those in need. They house homeless adults. They distribute food weekly. The cathedral champions immigration justice and has an active Hispanic outreach. They also promote environmental stewardship.
The Cathedral has been a leader in LGBT inclusion. They’ve supported LGBT rights. They even held a funeral service for John McCusker a gay Catholic man denied a funeral by the Roman Catholic Diocese. St Paul’s was at the forefront of the fight for same sex marriage in California. They held ecumenical services after Proposition 8 was passed and celebrated the overturning of Proposition 8.
St Paul’s Cathedral is a place of worship a symbol of community and a beacon of social justice. It’s a remarkable part of San Diego’s history and continues to serve its city. It continues to evolve but its foundational belief in inclusivity and service has never wavered.