A riverfront Episcopal cathedral whose 1826 nave has anchored church life in downtown Harrisburg for nearly two centuries.
At a glance
St. Stephen’s is a cathedral of the Episcopal Church in the United States on Front Street in Downtown Harrisburg, along the Susquehanna River. The nave dates to 1826 and seats about 300 people. Since January 1, 2026, it has served as a co-cathedral of the Diocese of the Susquehanna.
History
St. Stephen’s was the mother church of the former Episcopal Diocese of Central Pennsylvania and the seat of its bishop. It became the diocesan cathedral on January 27, 1932. The Diocese of the Susquehanna, formed by the union of the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania and the Diocese of Bethlehem, took effect on January 1, 2026, making St. Stephen’s a co-cathedral.
In 2024, the cathedral reported 569 members and average Sunday attendance of 126 persons.
What you see
The Cathedral, Cathedral House, and Chapter House stand together on Front Street. St. Stephen’s School is just around the corner on Cranberry Street. The church is a contributing property in the Harrisburg Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
Cultural significance
The cathedral’s listing within the Harrisburg Historic District recognizes its place in the city’s architectural and institutional fabric. Its role shifted in 2026, yet the 1826 nave remains the congregation’s worship space.
Key facts
- Country: United States
- City: Harrisburg
- Coordinates: 40.2608, -76.8858
- National Register of Historic Places: contributing property in Harrisburg Historic District
Practical information & getting there
The cathedral is on Front Street in Downtown Harrisburg, along the Susquehanna River. St. Stephen’s School is around the corner on Cranberry Street. Contact the cathedral for service times and visitor access.
Sources & resources
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