The Holy Trinity Cathedral was constructed in 1847 and underwent renovations in 1851. It holds the distinction of being one of the oldest Protestant Christian churches in China. Presently the church operates under CCC&TSPM.
The Holy Trinity Cathedral spans an area of 3,500 square meters, measuring 47 meters in length, 18 meters in width, and 17 meters in height. It features a bell tower that stands at 48 meters tall, which was completed in 1893 and became the most recognizable landmark on the Bund during that time.
The central portion of the church is constructed with wood and has a stone roof. Inside and outside the church, there are rows of columns along with galleries, surrounded by mosaic floor tiles and inlaid marble. The baptismal fountain is located in the northeast corner of the entrance, while the chapel is situated on the southwest side. The central avenue leads directly from the main door to the sanctuary.
The sanctuary itself is designed in the ancient Anglican style, featuring a half-vaulted structure with a finely crafted wooden vault adorned with star motifs. The stepped pulpit showcases intricate bas-relief carvings, and the scripture-reading desk takes the form of a brass eagle, exquisitely engraved. Stained-glass paintings adorn the front of the sanctuary and the auricles on both sides, depicting biblical accounts that shimmer in the sunlight. The church features both internal and external red brick walls, which are elegant and intricate, hence earning the nickname “Red Chapel”.
Between 2007 and 2010, CCC&TSPM adhered to the regulations outlined in the Law on the Protection of Cultural Relics. Following the principle of preserving the old, they conducted repairs on the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and restored its bell tower, effectively bringing back its historical appearance. Subsequently, the church underwent enhancements such as the installation of stained glass, an electronic organ, and a white jade baptismal font.
The restoration of the Holy Trinity Cathedral exemplified the progressive approach towards unearthing, perserving and safeguarding the invaluable religious and cultural heritage. In recognition of its efforts, the project received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage Preservation Outstanding Project Award.
Following thorough preparations by CCC&TSPM and the Church Administration Committee of Holy Trinity Cathedral, a simple yet significant opening ceremony took place on 12 December 2022. This was followed by a solemn and sacred opening service on the 18th.