Also known as the Old Swedes Church, the Gloria Dei is a beautiful church, situated in the interiors of the Pennsylvanian capital city of Philadelphia. Gloria Dei is a marvelous instance of Swedish church architecture of the 17th century. Surrounded by charming garden, the Gloria Dei Church is strategically located near open grounds and ancient buildings, attracting several members belonging to its congregation. In fact, the congregation of the Gloria Dei Church loves participating in the services, prayers and worships, as well as in other gatherings and occasions.
The Gloria Dei Church in Philadelphia came into existence when the Swedish colonists voyaged in the New World between 1638 and 1656, for supply and settlement purposes. In fact, Gloria Dei was the first church constructed by Governor Johan Printz, for the Swedish settlers to worship and attend the church services. The burial grounds on all three sides surround the Gloria Dei building.
The services of Gloria Dei Church include music uplifting, imparting biblical or spiritual teaching to the common people by the Rector and celebrating different
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Christian occasions. Through all these religious activities, the church authorities intend to increase socialization among people belonging to different social strata.
The Gloria Dei Liturgy activity reveals the flexible and open nature of the overall parish community of the church. The real purpose of the Liturgy is to impart traditional teachings of Holy Catholicism through the celebration of Eucharist during regular scheduled church services.
Philadelphia Gloria Dei Church also educates the children. To this effect, schools are held within the church premises every Sunday, from 9 am till 11 am during the morning church services and another shift at 11 am during the second church service. Both these schools register around 30 students, up to 6 years of age for the pre-school stage and belonging to 7 to 12 years of age as well.
Since ancient colonial days, the Gloria Dei church has also been popular site for organizing weddings.
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