|
Christ Church Cathedral Parish had its beginnings in 1858 when services were held in various places in the community. After many efforts a church building was provided in 1874, which remained in continuous use until 1916 when it was replaced with the present
nave. The Chancel and Parish House were completed in 1910. The Chapel of the Ascension was added in 1935. Thus the structural portions of the Church were finished.
The Bishop Wilson building was added in 1955 as a memorial to the first Bishop of Eau Claire. It provides needed space for offices for both the Cathedral and Diocese, and for educational and meeting purposes.
The nave and chancel of the Cathedral seats 400 comfortably while the Chapel of the Ascension seats 50. The parish hall, kitchens, classrooms, choir room, nursery and offices are all large enough to accommodate the foreseeable ministries to which God may call us.
The Cathedral's stained glass windows are the glory of Christ Church. Of English
design and execution, they are among some of the finest in the country in richness
and ecclesiastical style. The earlier windows were designed and executed by the
firm of Heaton, Butler and Bayne of London, England. This firm was bombed out
in the London Blitz, and following World War II, another firm had to be found.
The Wippell Company of Exeter, England was chosen to create the remaining
windows, which were installed and dedicated Eastertide, 1951. In 1977, the
Gloria Dei Tower was erected in appreciation for Dean Brant's ministry as
Dean and Rector of the Cathedral from 1946-1972, and now houses a 14 bell Carillon.
The Cathedral is located at the intersection of South Farwell Street and
East Lake Street in the heart of downtown Eau Claire. The church is very visible with easy access and adequate off-street parking.
| |
|
