February 23, 2024
Across the shady plaza from the ornate Catholic Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine is a simple, sandy-colored church, The Trinity Episcopal Church.
Since the founding of St Augustine in 1565 the city had been Spanish, so had only known Catholicism. Steps were taken when British Governor James Grant arrived in 1764, to bring in the Anglican church. It wasn't easy, but by 1771 services were being held regularly in an unfinished coquina (crushed shell) and wood building named St Peter's Anglican Church. But in 1783 when Spain again took possession of Florida, the church was demolished.
In 1821 when Florida became a United States territory, efforts were rekindled to build, not an Anglican, but an Episcopal church in St Augustine. Various temporary arrangements were made, but in 1827 a lot by the plaza was purchased. The first services were held in 1831. Over the next nearly 200 years, many modifications were made. The church is now cruciform in design. The original nave has become St Peter's Chapel, and makes up the north transept. It is a very active congregation now, with three services held each Sunday.
The church is very proud of their 28 stained glass windows. The one below is a "Tiffany" window and is located in the St Peter's Chapel.
And their other Tiffany window.
The curved beams of the dark-stained ceiling resemble that of a ship upside down. I've seen this in other churches and it has been explained in different ways. Whether it is for form, function or both isn't clear. Today I learned that the word nave, or the main body of the church, is derived from "navis", the Latin word for ship.
Back outside, the bell in the wood-shingled bell tower chimes the hours, and plays hymns throughout the day, sweetly blessing the city.
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