Welcome to the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the Cathedral Church of the Diocese of North Eastern Caribbean and Aruba. Situated on a small hill in the middle of the City of St. John's, on the island of Antigua, it is one of the lasting tributes to Europe's early exploration of the Caribbean islands.  Located in the capital city of the same name, the original Church of 1681 was destroyed in a destructive earthquake in 1745 which brought the whole structure toppling to the ground. Again in 1843 calamity struck in the form of an earthquake which left the second Church, and new Cathedral, reeling yet again

The current Cathedral – rebuilt in a neo-Baroque style has stood since 1845 however, and shows no sign of giving into nature a third time. The interior of the Cathedral is completely encased in a variety of substances (most prevalently pitch pine) to ensure that it remains upright. The imposing white towers overlook the country's turquoise waters, a stark contrast between the Island's colonial history and its current status as a leading Caribbean nation.

The sight of the towers of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is more meaningful for those approaching the Island by boat – it is often the first structure one's eyes can make out as ships sail into the harbour. But for years the Cathedral in its various incarnations was seen by the slaves as a imposing symbol of fear, representing the giant white strength of the English plantation system.

The church is famous for the bronze statues that mark the southern entrance to the Cathedral. These biblical figures are of a pair of St. Johns – St. John the Baptist, and the St. John that lends his name to the Cathedral.   The bronze figures still adorn the tops of the pillars, which at one time were its only entrance. The cupolas rise seventy feet into the air and actually has many architectural similarities to ancient pagan temples.

The interior of the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Divine is very much unlike anything one would find in Europe. The usual crosses, tombs and stained glass can be found in the interior –  but it is simply its context which imbues it with a sense of supreme holiness.

The Clergy and people invite you to come in and visit and worship with us as we give thanks for this beautiful and imposing Church that has withstood the ravages of the elements.

However, a number of areas around the Cathedral are inaccessible and in need of restoration.  Please visit the link and consider a contribution to this historical effort.