Cathedral of Saint Patrick (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania)
The Cathedral of Saint Patrick, located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg. It is situated at 212 State Street, in downtown Harrisburg.
The history of the Cathedral parish dates back to 1808, with the establishment of a small church on Allison Hill to serve the early Catholic population in the area. As the Catholic community grew, the need for a larger and more centrally located church became evident.
Construction of the current Cathedral began in 1904 under the direction of Bishop John W. Shanahan. The cornerstone was laid on July 23, 1904, and the Cathedral was formally dedicated on March 17, 1907, St. Patrick's Day. The architectural style is primarily Gothic Revival.
The Cathedral is noted for its stained glass windows, its high altar, and its overall grandeur. The stained glass depicts scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints.
The Cathedral serves as a center of worship, religious education, and community outreach for Catholics in the Harrisburg area and beyond. It hosts regular Masses, special liturgies, and various diocesan events. The Cathedral is also a popular destination for visitors interested in its historical and architectural significance.