Cornelia Stewart funded the building of the Episcopal cathedral as a memorial to her husband, Alexander T. Stewart, known as “The Merchant Prince” for his successful development of department stores. When he passed away in 1876, Stewart was considered one of the three richest men in the United States, alongside Cornelius Vanderbilt and William B. Astor.
The Cathedral of the Incarnation was designed to emulate the Gothic style of architecture found throughout many European churches. In buildings of this style, the eye is always pointed upward to heaven. The grandeur and height of the building is further intensified by the profusion of light bursting through the stained glass, a reminder of the divine presence of Jesus Christ, the light of the world. The Cathedral officially opened its doors to the public on April 9, 1885.
Affectionately referred to by Long Islanders simply as "the cathedral," the Cathedral of the Incarnation is the mother church of the Diocese of Long Island. It is the seat of the Bishop and home to a lively Christian community.
The cathedral close, where the Rewild Garden is located, is an oasis of green space in the village of Garden City. The close hosts not only the monumental cathedral building itself, but also the Mercer School of Theology and See House, the historic residence of the bishops of Long Island.
The cathedral is a sacred place at the heart of a diverse and busy island. It is a place for souls to find rest and refreshment as they join God’s mission of peace and justice.
Here you will find a community of openness and welcome. A community of compassion and care. A community of courage and service.
Focused on intergenerational spiritual development, the programs and enrichment opportunities offered at the Cathedral are inspired by these core values:
Connection
We believe that spiritual growth happens when we are deeply connected to God through Jesus Christ and to one another.
Imagination
We believe that both children and adults experience spiritual growth when they are immersed in an environment of wonder and playfulness, which means exploring Christian faith through practices, language, art, music, nature, and service.
Joy
We believe that spiritual growth comes to us when we find joy in our worship of God and in our community.
Whether you’ve just become a Christian or have been a follower of Christ for your whole life, you will find a space to learn and grow at the Cathedral.
For more information, email kris@spiritualimagination.org and susanmacdonald@danielgale.com.
ABOVE: Gardens designed by Caroline Cosgrove, Kris Vieira Coleman, and Susan MacDonald through the ReWild Winter Garden Design Workshop 25’. Icons designed by Wren Halpern, https://www.wrenhalpern.com
