Regardless of your religious denomination, be sure to see the Cathedral Church of Saint Luke in Portland, Maine. For over a century, the cathedral has served its Episcopal parishioners and anyone else who wishes to visit.
Admire the Gothic Revival architecture style of the church. Its austere exterior, comprised of gray stone, contrasts with a very inviting interior. A vaulted wooden ceiling tops the sweeping walls that are marked by white arches.
Examine the stunning Wright Memorial Rose Window above the altar. The central window depicts the Ascension of Christ and is surrounded by 36 smaller windows.
Check out the Incarnation Reredos and High Altar Assembly, which date back to 1925. The varnished oak installation features intricate carvings of biblical scenes.
Appreciate the serenity in the French Gothic-style Emmanuel Chapel, which features its own organ and sacristy. Notice the nearby cenotaph of Bishop Neely of Maine, an exquisite marble rendering of Dr. Henry Adams Neely, the second head of Maine’s Episcopal churches.
Learn a bit more about the history of St. Luke’s, which was founded in 1851 by Reverend Horatio Southgate. Following a missionary stint in the Ottoman Empire, the Portland native returned to his hometown and became the rector of the church. By 1866, this had become the largest parish in Maine and was chosen to be the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Maine. The cornerstone for the cathedral was laid in the next year and the first services were held on Christmas Day in 1868.
Join the parishioners of the Cathedral Church of Saint Luke on Sunday for the Holy Eucharist. As with most Episcopal churches, the ceremony is composed of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Table. The cathedral also has services throughout the week and is available for baptisms, weddings and other public events.
Find the cathedral southwest of central Portland. Within walking distance, visit the Portland Museum of Art and Deering Oaks Park.
