“Established in 1946”. Doesn’t that seem like just yesterday? Yet Holy Cross Episcopal Church stands as a testament to decades of faith and community. While its specific history remains somewhat veiled let’s explore the broader tapestry of Episcopal churches in Detroit.
Many have inspiring stories. St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. It played a vital role in the Underground Railroad. Founded in 1846 St. Matthew’s aided slaves escaping to Canada. This courageous activism remained unrecognized for years.
In 2015 the National Park Service added St. Matthew’s to its National Network to Freedom. A time capsule unearthed in 1998 revealed more of the church’s past. Documents detailed its community service and social activism. William Lambert was known as “the father of St. Matthew’s”. He founded the Colored Vigilant Committee. This group helped freedom-seekers reach Canada. They provided food clothing medical care and even legal representation.
After the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 many members fled to Canada. Remaining members met at Christ Church Detroit. Their building was sold to a Jewish congregation. The St. Matthew’s Mission Fund was established. It assisted newcomers and later helped build a new church.
James Holly was ordained a deacon at St. Matthew’s in 1855. He became the first black bishop in the Episcopal Church. He also founded the Episcopal Church in Haiti. The Detroit chapter of the NAACP was established at St. Matthew’s.
During the 1920s the church developed a relationship with Henry Ford. This facilitated the hiring of African Americans for factory work. Marian Anderson performed her first Detroit concert at St. Matthew’s in 1926.
In 1971 St. Matthew’s merged with St. Joseph’s Church. The former church building was razed in 1998. This made way for Ford Field.
Trinity Episcopal Church is another notable church in Detroit. Designed by Mason & Rice it opened in 1893. James E. Scripps founder of the Detroit News commissioned it. It is an early example of late Gothic Revival architecture. The stained glass windows are from Franz Mayer and Co. Willet Studios and Tiffany Studios.
In 2006 Trinity Episcopal Church joined with Faith Memorial Lutheran Church. They called themselves Spirit of Hope. Spirit of Hope closed in 2018. Trinity began a new chapter as a Mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan.
These churches highlight Detroit’s rich spiritual heritage. Holy Cross Episcopal Church while newer shares in this legacy. It symbolizes faith community and service in the heart of Detroit. Though its unique narrative may be less known its presence enriches the city’s diverse religious landscape.