Gloria Dei Old Swedes Episcopal Church — Attraction in Philadelphia

I grew up 2 blocks away here. Nice friendly dog owners, real grass field. So far I have not met one snobby person as I have at other parks. Can get muddy in some spots. Bring your own water and toys. I was quite enthusiastic when I saw a dog and cat friendly sign on the gate allowing people to let thier dogs run around and play on the very huge coupe of acre field ground next to the cemetary. The care takers of this historic sight live on the premises and are very nice. Remember to keep your dog/s from running in the grave yard although sometimes a dog may get curious and check out the grave yard and is ultimately unavoidable, the care takers do not get upset as long as you actively keep your dog in the field and remove them from the graveyard when you see them headed there. Also, so far all of the dog owners I have met were super friendly and nice people. I...

Very beautiful location! Some of my ancestors went here and one of my ancestors, Sven Gunnarsson, owned the land that the church is built on! I went to see the St. Lucia Fest on December 9th, and the performers, both young and old, did an exceptional job telling the stories of, and singing songs about, Swedish daily life and religious culture during the Christmas season in the 19th Century. The Reverend of Gloria Dei was also very nice to everyone, and he gave a great introduction and conclusion that both dealt with our need to be lights in a dark world. The St. Erik's Fair was also a great experience with Swedish food and gifts. Everyone was friendly and treated everyone like family. I will be back to this place for sure!

Note: For the respect of the performers and to keep the church dark for the St. Lucia performance, no pictures were taken of the...

Gloria Dei Old Swedes Episcopal Church, nestled in the Southwark neighborhood of Philadelphia, is a historic gem with roots stretching back to the Swedish settlers of the 17th century. Built between 1698 and 1700, it stands as the oldest church in Pennsylvania and is a testament to the city’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Known locally as Old Swedes’, the church has been a member of the Episcopal Church since 1845, welcoming all to its congregation regardless of their spiritual journey. The church’s architecture displays an English vernacular style, combining elements of Medieval and Gothic designs, which is evident in its robust structure and the addition of a tower around 1733. Today, Gloria Dei continues to serve as a place of worship and a beacon of historical significance, inviting visitors to explore its past and experience its...