Trinity & St. Philip's Cathedral, Newark

Trinity & Saint Philip's Cathedral in Newark, established in 1810, reflects a rich tapestry of history that traces back to early colonial worship practices that began around 1729 with visiting priests. The original Trinity Church, chartered by King George II in 1746, served multiple roles, including as a hospital during the American Revolutionary War. After suffering damage during the war, the current building was completed in 1810, incorporating elegant Greek Revival and Gothic Revival architectural styles.

In 1857, the church expanded with the addition of a chancel and sanctuary. It gained cathedral status in 1944, marking a new chapter in its storied existence. The cathedral's community expanded further when it merged with Saint Philip's Church's congregation in 1966 following a devastating fire at Saint Philip’s. This merger was symbolically recognized in the cathedral's name in 1992, honoring the predominantly African American congregation of the former Saint Philip's Church.

The cathedral not only serves as the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark but also holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972 and is part of the Military Park Commons Historic District. This designation underscores its architectural and religious importance. The Very Rev. Dillard Robinson's election as dean in 1968 marked a historic moment, as he became the first African American dean of a cathedral in the United States, highlighting the cathedral’s role in promoting inclusivity and community unity.