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The Spiritual Side of Philly

By Thomas Franklin


While visiting Philadelphia, be sure to stop by and visit the religious landmarks this incredible city has to offer to its residents and visitors.

Christ Church

The Christ Church, found on 20N. American street on the corner of 2nd street and Market Street is among the most amazing spiritual landmarks in Philadelphia. The primary body of the Christ Church was built in 1727. Nevertheless the addition of the steeple in 1754 increased the height of the church to 60 meters and which made it the tallest building in North America, at the time. Some of the nation?s Fathers including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Francis Hopkinson worshiped there. Visitors can visit the church from 9AM-5PM on Mondays to Saturdays and 1PM -5PM on Sundays.

St. Peters Episcopal Church

St. Peters Episcopal Church is located on the corner of 3rd and Pine streets. This red-brick Episcopal Church was initially opened for worship in 1761 as the Christ Church was considered too muddy for fine gentlemen. The church is considered one of the special Philadelphia spiritual landmarks because George Washington and Mayor Samuel Powel among other Fathers worshiped there and sat in pew 41. The visiting hours are 8:30am - 4pm on Monday to Fri., 8:30am - 3pm on Saturdays and 1pm to 3pm on Sundays. Tour guides can be gotten from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and 1pm to 3pm on Sundays.

Masonic Temple

The church-like Masonic temple is located on the corner of North Broad Street. Although the temple was first dedicated in 1873, it took 30 years to decorate the temple?s interior which makes it one of the most amazing Philadelphia spiritual landmarks. The church is open Tues. to Fri. every week with steered tours at 11 am, 2 pm and 3 pm. The church is also open every Sat. except in June and August with steered tours at 10 am, 11 am and 12 12 p.m.. Visitors are charged a little admission charge which goes towards the upkeep of this superb church.

Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church

Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church found Near Christina Avenue and Columbus Boulevard is yet another of the impressive religious sites in Philadelphia. Gloria Dei was constructed between 1697 and 1700 and is therefore the oldest church in Pennsylvania. On most weekdays, the church is open for visitors from 9 am to 4 pm. However , like plenty of other non secular sites in Philadelphia, Gloria Dei advises its visitors to call ahead so as to arrange a tour.

National Shrine of St. John Neumann

This Roman Catholic Shrine which is located at 1019 North 5th street gets its name from St. John Neumann the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia. The Shrine constitutes the lower church of St. Peter the Apostle Church which was built in 1843. Next to the lower church is a museum containing exhibits of St. John Neumann?s life. The church is open everyday during mass.




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