The American Cathedral in Paris, formally known as the American Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, is an Episcopal (Anglican) cathedral located at 23 Quai d’Orsay, 75007 Paris, France. It serves as the principal place of worship for the Anglican community in Paris and functions as the seat of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe for the Diocese of Europe.
History
- Founding: The congregation was established in 1859 to serve American expatriates and other English‑speaking residents of Paris.
- Construction: The current neo‑Gothic building was designed by architect George Edmund Street and constructed between 1864 and 1885.
- Consecration: The cathedral was consecrated on June 8, 1886 by Charles Loring Brace, then Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of New York, acting on behalf of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States.
Architecture
- Style: Neo‑Gothic, featuring pointed arches, a ribbed vault, and a prominent rose window.
- Materials: The exterior employs limestone typical of Parisian construction, while the interior contains oak pews, stained‑glass windows (including works by American artists), and a stone altar.
- Capacity: Approximately 300 seats.
Liturgical Use and Community
- Denomination: Episcopal Church (part of the worldwide Anglican Communion).
- Language: Services are primarily conducted in English, with occasional French translations.
- Regular Services: The cathedral holds daily Morning Prayer, weekly Eucharist (typically on Sundays at 10:00 a.m.), and special liturgies for religious and civic occasions.
- Outreach: Programs include English‑language classes, cultural events, charitable outreach to Parisian neighborhoods, and interfaith dialogues.
Governance
- Leadership: The cathedral is headed by a Rector appointed by the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe. The current rector (as of 2023) is The Rev. Dr. Michael D. Harrington.
- Administrative Structure: The cathedral is overseen by a vestry consisting of elected lay members and clergy, aligning with Anglican governance practices.
Notable Features
- Memorials: The cathedral houses memorial plaques and stained‑glass windows commemorating American soldiers from World Wars I and II and notable expatriates.
- Music: A historic pipe organ, built by Cavaillé‑Coll, supports a robust music program, including choral and instrumental performances.
Relationship with the French State
- Legal Status: As a religious building used by a foreign congregation, the cathedral operates under the 1905 French law on the separation of Church and State, maintaining independence from French governmental control while respecting local regulations.
Accessibility
- Location: Situated on the left bank of the Seine, opposite the Musée d’Orsay and near the Pont du Carrousel.
- Transport: Accessible via Métro Line 6 (Bir-Hakeim station) and several bus lines.
The American Cathedral in Paris continues to serve both the expatriate community and local residents as a center for Anglican worship, cultural exchange, and charitable activity within the capital of France.
