Cleveland’s First Christian Congregation
A Remarkable Story
For more than 200 years, Trinity has served the spiritual and physical needs of greater Cleveland. While Trinity Cathedral has a remarkable history, having stood for over 100 years itself, Trinity’s congregation is even more historic. In fact, Trinity is the oldest Christian congregation in the city of Cleveland.
1816
A Parish is Founded
Trinity parish was founded in the home of Phineas Shepherd on November 9, 1816 in Brooklyn, Ohio, though Episcopalians had been present from the time of Moses Cleveland’s arrival. The first rector was Roger Searle. Between 1820-25, the parish worshipped in Brooklyn, where many of the members lived.
1829
The First Church
As the parish grew, the congregation decided to move into a frame structure built on the corner of , St. Clair and Seneca (W. 3rd St.). Consecrated in 1829, Trinity became the first church building within the village limits of Cleveland, the same year the city’s first lighthouse was built. By 1846 the parish began to plan for a larger, more central building of Gothic design, just east of Public Square at E. 6th and Superior Avenue, which was moved into in 1855.
1890
Home of the Diocese
Trinity Parish had maintained a close relationship with the episcopate of the Diocese of Ohio since 1836, when the bishop had been invited to reside adjacent to the church. In 1890 Trinity Church was offered to Bishop William A. Leonard as a cathedral for the Diocese of Ohio. Trinity parish would maintain the cathedral and serve dual roles as a parish church and as a cathedral.
1907
Cathedral Construction
Under the leadership of Bishop Leonard, a new Gothic cathedral was conceived with Charles F. Schweinfurth, noted architect of many Cleveland churches, residences, and public buildings, commissioned for the project. Many of Cleveland’s prominent families, such as the Samuel Mather family, contributed great financial support to the new cathedral. Construction began in 1901 and Trinity Cathedral was consecrated on September 24, 1907.
2002
Trinity Commons
In 2002, Trinity Commons was built containing meeting and program space for nonprofit, corporate and community groups throughout greater Cleveland. Trinity Commons is a community-facing event and education center for the people of Greater Cleveland offering programming that inspires, nourishes, and celebrates the sacred in all people.
Today
A Sacred Place for All
Today, Trinity Cathedral has assumed the role of a medieval cathedral in a modern society. The cathedral’s location in the heart of the city enables the church to provide spiritual, social, educational, and outreach programs to serve the greater community and to serve as a cultural arts center. We are working to realize the promise of our architecture by becoming a piazza, where everyone is invited to gather, learn, pray, and be faithful stewards of God’s bounty.
A Cleveland Landmark
Awe-inspiring Architecture
Designed by Charles F. Schweinfurth, noted architect of many Cleveland churches and landmarks, Trinity Cathedral is an awe-inspiring example of neo-perpendicular Gothic architecture. Every detail tells a story, from the intricate stained glass windows to the dark oak millwork. Gothic cathedrals are often described as parables in stone, designed to unite the “earthly city” with the yearnings for the “heavenly city.” Trinity Cathedral’s transcendent beauty does just that, serving as a sacred space for all people.
Docents —
Tour the Cathedral
On select Sundays, docent-led tours are held between the worship services. You’ll learn about the cathedral’s history, architecture, art, music, windows and more. Even congregants and regular visitors are sure to discover things they have never seen before.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
A Downtown Destination
Visitor’s Guide
Want to learn more about the cathedral? Download the Visitor’s Guide to read about the history, architecture, and fun facts about Trinity Cathedral. The guide includes a layout of the cathedral with various points of interest marked.