The congregation is named for Athanasius, the 4th-century Bishop of Alexandria known for his ministry in a widely secular society.
Part of the Episcopal Church, St. Paul's Commons also houses the offices of the bishops and diocesan staff and regularly hosts retreats and other events for interfaith and community groups.
Previous diocesan administrative buildings have included St. Paul's Cathedral, built in 1923 on Figueroa Street north of Wilshire Boulevard and demolished in 1980 after earthquake damage; St. Paul's Pro-Cathedral, built in 1883 on Olive Street and sold in 1922 to make way for the Biltmore Hotel.
The original 1865 St. Athanasius' Church, located on New High Street and Temple, just northeast of L.A.'s current City Hall.
Built in 1925 and a city landmark, St. John's Cathedral serves the diocese as the site of larger liturgical gatherings.