A Proud Past

The parish of St.Lawrence was established in 1859 when Harrisburg was part of the Diocese of Philadelphia. The early congregation, mostly German-speaking Catholics, was served by visiting priests. The first resident pastor arrived in 1868, the year in which the Diocese of Harrisburg was created.

Construction of the existing structure began in 1916 under the direction of Philadelphia architect Paul Monaghan, a former student of the parish school. His inspiration came from medieval builders who expressed their faith in wood and stone. Monaghan's original drawings capture the graceful elegance of the 13th century Gothic style. His vision became reality in two years of construction. Foxcroft stone for the walls was cut by hand at the site and Indiana limestone was used for the trim and tracery. The front facade was anchored by a square bell tower and a quartet of gargoyles provided the final Gothic touch. Relics of St. Lawrence and other saints were brought to the new church which was consecrated by Bishop Philip McDevitt on April 20, 1918.

An Architectural Treasure

Largely unused since the 1995 merger of three Catholic parishes in Harrisburg, historic St. Lawrence Chapel is about to undertake a challenging new mission to restore its grandeur and purpose in a community it served so well for many generations. The Chapel, an elegant example of French Gothic architecture, is once again opening its doors to become an even greater resource in a revitalized downtown.

Plans are being made for renovations to this remarkable church which will make it the home for the newly founded State Street Academy of Music at St. Lawrence, while continuing to serve as a chapel for St. Patrick Cathedral. Renovations will include the construction of a music teaching space under the nave, including eight soundproof music studios, and the installation of air conditioning, lighting, and sound systems in the nave for performances. The beauty and excellent acoustics of the nave will provide an outstanding setting for musical performances.

The interior of St. Lawrence, with its high vaulted ceiling, is a striking example of the Gothic style. The intricate polychroming, reminiscent of European churches, is seldom seen in this country. Warm colors of blue, red and gold on the wood panels of the ceiling catch the morning sun through a sixteen foot rose window above the choir loft.

The stained glass windows are the creation of a master craftsman from the great French cathedral at Rouen. The windows above the nave are of grisaille, accented with royal blue as are the five windows of the sanctuary. Created from imported glass, their design, color, and leading reflect the medieval period.

The height and intricacy of the altar also capture the Gothic theme. Hand carved in Italy of Cenere marble, it holds statues of eight saints in individual niches. The wainscoting of the sanctuary is Porto Santo marble. The nave, with a seating capacity of 300, features paintings done in the Byzantine style by the Dutch artist William deGroot.

This architectural masterwork has been recognized as a historic treasure in downtown Harrisburg. Its perfect acoustics will provide a perfect setting for young people to develop their musical talents.

110 State Street • Harrisburg PA 17101 • (717) 236-1366
ssamusic@verizon.net

State Street Academy of Music at St. Lawrence is a registered 501c3 organization with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.