Cathedral Church of St. Luke

The Cathedral Church of St. Luke, nestled in the vibrant heart of Orlando, Florida, stands as a beacon of history, faith, and architectural splendor. As the seat of the Diocese of Central Florida, this Episcopal cathedral is more than just a place of worship; it is a testament to the enduring spirit and rich heritage of the community it serves.

The Origins and Evolution

The roots of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke trace back to the home of Francis Eppes, the grandson of Thomas Jefferson. Eppes, an ardent Episcopal churchman, moved from Virginia to the burgeoning town of Orlando in 1869. It was here that he, along with the Shine, Summerlin, Westcott, and Greetham families, formed a devout group that became the nucleus for what would eventually become St. Luke's Mission in 1881. By 1884, the mission had achieved parish status, marking the beginning of its significant journey.

The General Convention of the Episcopal Church established the Missionary Jurisdiction of South Florida, and the Rev. William Crane Gray was elected as its first bishop. With Orlando as his home, St. Luke's was designated as the Cathedral Church for South Florida on March 31, 1902. The first cathedral dean was the Rev. Lucien A. Spencer, who played a pivotal role in the church's early development.

A New Cathedral Takes Shape

As the community grew, the need for a new cathedral became evident. In 1922, the original church was moved to make way for a new building. The Boston architectural firm Frohman, Robb, and Little, renowned for designing the Washington National Cathedral, was chosen to design the new cathedral in Orlando. On April 13, 1925, the Rt. Rev. Cameron Mann laid the cornerstone, and by 1926, the building, though only partially constructed, was usable. However, due to a financial depression affecting Florida at the time, funds to complete the cathedral were scarce, leading to the construction of a temporary wall at the altar end of the church.

It wasn't until the tenure of the Very Rev. Charles T. Gaskell (1971-1973) that significant renovations took place. The nave was renovated, a choir gallery was built over the narthex, and an impressive 88-rank pipe organ was installed. The final completion of the cathedral, as per its original plans, occurred between 1986 and 1987 under the leadership of the Very Rev. Harry Sherman. The completed cathedral now boasts an apse, ambulatory, priests and working sacristies, a bell tower, and the St. Mary Chapel.

The Orlando Deanery Boychoir and Girls Choir

Adding to the cathedral's cultural and spiritual tapestry is the Orlando Deanery Boychoir and Girls Choir. Founded on European models and affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music in England, this choir is a music outreach program of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke. They have served as cultural ambassadors of the United States and the City of Orlando, touring globally and performing at prestigious venues such as the East Wing of the White House and Carnegie Hall.

The Magnificent Pipe Organ

The cathedral's pipe organ, the last instrument built by the Tellers Organ Company of Erie, Pennsylvania, is one of their largest and most versatile creations. The 88-rank electro-pneumatic organ, installed in a newly constructed rear gallery, was designed to be eclectic and versatile, capable of delivering a wide range of musical expressions. The dedicatory recital was played on October 21, 1973, by Paul Jenkins, an esteemed organ professor from Stetson University.

Exploring the Cathedral

Visitors to the Cathedral Church of St. Luke are greeted by its majestic Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The interior is equally breathtaking, with its high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and the serene St. Mary Chapel. The cathedral's nave, with its grand organ and choir gallery, creates an atmosphere of reverence and awe.

One of the highlights of a visit to the cathedral is the opportunity to experience the rich musical traditions upheld by the Orlando Deanery Boychoir and Girls Choir. Their performances, whether during regular services or special concerts, are a testament to the cathedral's commitment to nurturing and showcasing musical talent.

A Place of Community and Reflection

Beyond its architectural and musical grandeur, the Cathedral Church of St. Luke serves as a vital community hub. It hosts a variety of events, from religious services and weddings to community gatherings and cultural programs. The cathedral's welcoming atmosphere invites visitors to pause, reflect, and find solace within its historic walls.

In conclusion, the Cathedral Church of St. Luke is not just a cornerstone of Orlando's religious landscape but also a beacon of history, culture, and community. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and vibrant musical traditions make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the heart of Orlando. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of peace, the Cathedral Church of St. Luke offers a rich and rewarding experience.