2018 // Religion

Did You Know?

The impressive stained glass windows lining the Basilica of Sts. Peter & Paul were designed by the renowned American artist Louis C. Tiffany. Tiffany was a prestigious member of the Art Nouveau movement and was best known for his work with stained glass windows and lamps. He was the lead designer of his family’s business, Tiffany & Co.

Composed of a beautiful mosaic of cultures and religions, Chattanooga welcomes all faiths. Residents enjoy access to diverse and engaging places of worship, nonprofit ministries focused on helping others, and faith-based educational institutions.

From traditional to contemporary, there are a variety of churches available in the area. Protestant denominations include Baptist, Presbyterian, Church of Christ, Church of God, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist, Seventh-day Adventist, and more. Greek Orthodox,  Roman Catholic, Latter-day Saints, and Unitarian communities  are also represented, as is a thriving Jewish community with synagogues for the orthodox, conservative, and reformed. Baha’i’ house of worship, Buddhist centers, Hindu temples, and mosques complete the religious landscape.

Several Chattanooga area churches are recognized for their stunning architecture, and some are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From Greek revival to colonial to contemporary, there are beautiful worship centers full of character and history.

Service opportunities are readily available through Chattanooga area churches, religious organizations, and many nonprofit ministries. Areas of focus range from helping the homeless to education, underprivileged children, widows, music education, and many more causes.

For parents looking to provide their children with a faith-based education, Chattanooga is home to Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Islamic, and Seventh-day Adventist schools. Schools range from daycare and preschool to elementary and high school. Several nearby religious colleges and universities include Bryan College, Covenant College, Lee University, and Southern Adventist University. For more information on choices for education, see this issue’s sections on Education and Higher Education.