The Cathedral of All Souls

A beautiful place in just about every aspect.
Architecturally, it was designed by Richard Morris Hunt at the same time his Biltmore Estate was under construction. Biltmore Village was to be a community for estate workers, with this being their parish church. It wasn’t until a few decades ago that it was designated a cathedral, so it is a bit more compact and jewel-​box like than your typical mind’s-eye cathedral. As this was funded by the good ship Vanderbilt, all the stops were pulled out — an ornate design (in a Greek cross style as opposed to the more typical Latin, or rather X-​shaped than t-​shaped), beautiful stained glass windows (the Holy family, the saints, and memorial windows to Frederick Law Olmstead and Cornelius Vanderbilt), etc. I don’t know how old the organ is but it had a bright tone to it as well. The grounds and parish hall make for lovely strolling too. It’s like seeing a highlight of Biltmore but at no expense!
On the functional side, we attended a 9am Eucharist. The church is a progressive one, as you’d expect from both the Episcopal church and the Asheville location, with commemoration that day for a former parishioner who had led a national appeal to recognize same-​sex relationships in 1975! The Dean delivered an engaging, thoughtful sermon in an easy-​going style, and the hymns were personal favorites (starting with the Sacred Harp, ending with Beethoven’s 9^th). Children sit with parents until the sermon where they are ushered out, and return for the Collect. One unique thing here is that children are called to the altar when Communion is being prepared, though they return to their seats before properly receiving it. And upon leaving, we spoke with a number of friendly parishioners who went out of their way to welcome us. Dress was mostly business casual if that matters to you.
We really enjoyed our visit to All Souls, and though Asheville has a number of impressive looking churches that we’d like to get a look at, it might be hard to steer away from here the next time we’re in town!

A beautiful place with a lovely service. Old and historic. Built by George Vanderbilt when he built Biltmore. It is Episcopalian. As I am that, I enjoy making it a part of my weekend experience. But, they are open for looking around, and I do recommend you have a look for free before you enter the estate. The stained glass windows alone are worth it and the place is just beautiful.