Cathedral of St. John the Divine

The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine is a large and impressive structure, a 120-year-old city monument with fascinating architectural design and an equally impressive spiritual community. Visit the church to appreciate its architecture, attend a service or listen to a choir performance.

The church offers much more beyond its Sunday services. The mother church of the Episcopal diocese of New York, the cathedral welcomes people of all faiths. Its soup kitchen serves over 25,000 meals annually. Attend programs in art, literature, civic engagement and public education.

Admire the building’s architecture, which remains incomplete although construction began initially in 1892. Because of the prolonged construction, the style has changed over the years, including elements of Romanesque-Byzantine and Gothic Revival design and art deco and post-modern adornments.

Seven chapels reflect styles of different European origins in recognition of the diverse immigrants to America in the early 1900s. Notice the Gothic elements of flying buttresses, stained-glass windows and two rose windows. Look for sculptures and reliefs depicting Jesus and St. John the Divine as well as Lincoln, Washington, Gandhi, Einstein, Susan B. Anthony and a nuclear explosion over New York City.

The cathedral has several music groups: the Cathedral Choir that sings for Sunday services, the Cathedral Chorale and the Choristers, a student group. Visit on Sundays or daily for Morning Prayer, the Holy Eucharist and Evening Prayer.

Cultural arts are included in the church’s programs. See the current exhibition of cathedral art. View the American Poets Corner where celebrated American writers have been recognized for their literary contributions. Check the schedule to see what lectures and discussions are planned for civic engagement and public education.

Whether you want to participate in the spirituality of the church or simply admire the architecture, visit New York City’s Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. The church is open daily for self-guided visits. Pay for a guided tour to see historic and architectural highlights or a vertical tour to climb to the rooftop. Take public transportation to a stop near the church or drive and use nearby street or garage parking.