Perched high on Seattle’s Capitol Hill, Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral is a majestic structure, often catching the eye of those passing by beneath it on I-5. And for nearly a century, this gorgeous place of worship has been somewhat of a second home to many a Washingtonian. If you’ve ever driven by and wondered about this place, you’re not alone. Here’s what it’s like to take a tour.

Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral is part of the Episcopal Church, and as a cathedral, serves as the seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of Olympia.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle / Facebook
But, when current conditions allow for large groups to gather safely, all are welcome to visit. The congregation is welcoming and inclusive.
The cathedral has been in the works since 1926, and ground broke on the project in 1928.
Kevin Gueng / Google
However, thanks to the Great Depression, the parish was in default on its mortgage throughout the 1930s, and parts of the structure remained unfinished.
The cathedral was foreclosed upon in 1941. And for the next two years, it was used as an anti-aircraft training facility by the United States Army.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle / Facebook
Luckily, the parish paid the mortgage by 1947, and the structure once again became a cathedral.

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If you've ever wondered if the inside of Saint Mark's is as beautiful as the exterior, the answer is a resounding yes.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle / Facebook
The rooms are simple, but they're also full of exquisite details.
The choir loft of Saint Mark's is home to one of the largest pipe organs in Seattle.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle / Facebook
The organ was built in 1965 by D. A. Flentrop, and it was restored in the 90s.
The stained glass in the sanctuary is incredible.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle / Facebook
Whether or not you consider yourself religious (and whether or not this is your chosen religion), you'll feel at home when you visit.
Saint Mark's has had to pause in-person gatherings and tours of the property for a while, but they'll offer those things again as soon as they can.
Franklin Furlong / Google
In the meantime, if you're interested in learning more about the community, you can participate in Newcomer's Virtual Coffee with Clergy on the first Sunday of each month. Just email newcomers@saintmarks.org to get the Zoom link.

Doesn’t this cathedral look beautiful? Learn more about the history of Saint Mark’s here.

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