Some seed fell onto rich soil where it brought forth fruit: some one hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty…

                                           ~ Jesus’ words Matthew 13:30

Dear Cathedral,

Jesus often used images from nature when he was talking about our relationship with God. 

When a seed is planted in good soil, its roots dig deep, making it strong and resilient. From those good roots, a stalk grows tall and eventually, fruit comes in abundance. Deep roots in the spiritual life will bear rich fruit for the kingdom of God. 

The Cathedral has laid deep roots in its 190 years on this holy hill. We have praised God, cared for the sick and suffering, and birthed many ministries and non-profits that have shaped this city. And today, we stand on the verge of harvesting abundant ripe fruit that will transform our lives together. We are opening our doors again on Wednesdays with lunch, dinner, and a cornucopia of offerings. New people are coming through our doors every week and joining our community. Our virtual life has exploded, reaching thousands of people and we are about to launch a new Center for Wellbeing so that those who struggle in any way can find a place of community and comfort.

The Cathedral is a miracle from God. We have existed, all this time, without charging a dime or billing anyone. We offer our worship, our love, and our ministries to all free of charge and we do this because you, our faithful parishioners, choose to give generously. Your generosity is the water that keeps all this alive and well. And your generosity will water your soul as well.

Please pray about what you can pledge to give in 2025. I can guarantee that the generosity you offer will bring you great blessings and a depth of joy like nothing else. Truly, giving is one of the most joyful aspects of my life and before I do anything with the money that God has helped me earn, I give ten percent to say thank you.

May God bless you and thank you.

In Christ’s love,

Kate+

Look for your pledge packet coming in the mail soon!

What to Expect This Sunday

This Sunday, we invite you to take a closer look at the beautiful tree at the altar, created by Thom Buttner and Kevin McKinney. Inspired by our "Deep Roots, Bear Fruits" logo, the tree will highlight the fruits of our seven councils throughout the pledging season, with one council featured each week. The seven councils include Outreach; Worship, Arts and Music; Pastoral Care; Christian Formation; Properties; Parish Engagement; and Stewardship and Development.

In the Spotlight: Outreach

This week, we celebrate the work of the Outreach Council, led by Lynn S. Doiron and the Rev. Deacon Saundra Kidd. Please feel free to contact them to learn more about our Outreach Ministries and how you can get involved. Outreach Ministries include Angel Tree, Family Promise, Lunch Angels for Church without Walls, St. Mary's Food Pantry, and OneBlood Blood Drives. SJC Outreach Ministries

Watch this one-minute video on the impact of Family Promise Jacksonville.

Dean's Forum

9 a.m. | Taliaferro Hall

The Way of Love - St. John's Journey to Follow Jesus

This fall, St. John's Cathedral invites you to embark on a transformative journey through our shared history in the Dean's Forum. Together, we will explore the deep roots of our faith community, reflecting on how these foundations have allowed us to bear fruit over time. How have our DEEP ROOTS allowed us to BEAR FRUIT? Jesus calls us to journey toward a Beloved or True Community, a place where all God's people and creation are equally valued, protected, and nurtured as beloved children of God.

Becoming Beloved Community With open hearts and minds, we invite you to join us in this exploration of our past, our present, and the community we are called to become. The journey toward Beloved Community is one we take together, learning and growing as we go. We invite you to consider joining a Sacred Ground group this fall. Contact Martha Cox to join a class starting October 7. Learn more about Sacred Ground here.

Sunday, September 15

Topic: Our Land with a video featuring voices of Native Americans

Please take a look at the full schedule.

Wednesdays at the Cathedral

A full day of activities designed to nourish your faith, foster fellowship, and deepen your spiritual journey.

Morning Schedule:

9 a.m - Caregivers Support Group, Busey Conference Room

Led by Penny Uitti and Kell Owen. Calling all caregivers! This group provides a dedicated space for you to share, connect, and find support from others who understand the unique challenges and rewards of caregiving. Please note that arrangements should be made for the care-receivers during the group meetings. To join, please get in touch with Kell Owen.

11 a.m. – Growing through the Word

Start your day with our lectionary Bible Study, where we delve into the weekly readings and explore their relevance to our lives. Led by Deacon Saundra Kidd in the Busey Conference Room and on Zoom. Join Zoom Meeting here.

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Lunch

Join us in Taliaferro Hall for a delicious lunch, served with love and fellowship.

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Holy Living: Christian Practice and How to Discern God’s Will in Your Life

Your faith, quite literally, can make you well. This class will take you through the basics of the beliefs and practices of the Episcopal Church. Learn more here.

12:10 p.m. – Holy Eucharist, Cummings Chapel

Midday healing service in Cummings Chapel.

1 - 2:30 p.m. – Age-Ing to Sage-Ing: Spirituality and Purpose in Later Life

September 11 - October 2

Offered by the Center for Wellbeing and led by Kell Brown Owen, MS-Gero, PhD resident. Meeting in person in the Busey Conference Room and on Zoom. Register for the Zoom Meeting here.

This program rejects the stereotypical views of aging that define it in terms of a singular narrative of decline but instead reveals how this season of life can be a time of spiritual growth and pursuit of purpose. We will engage in deep discussions, contemplative practices, and the arts. Further, the program will encourage connection, build community, and promote well-being.

Holy Living Class with Dean Kate

Evening Schedule:

5:30 - 7 p.m. – Dinner

Share a meal with friends old and new in Taliaferro Hall, and enjoy the warmth of community.

6 p.m. – Classes & Small Groups

Engage in one of our evening classes. Each session is designed to nurture both body and soul.

• Holy Living: Christian Practice and How to Discern God’s Will in Your Life, Ingram Lounge (same content as the morning class)
• Art Class, The Painting Place

NOTE: Yoga has moved to Monday nights, 6 p.m. in Cummings Chapel

7 p.m. – River City Mindfulness

Meeting in the Center for Wellbeing, Room 303, third floor of Cathedral House

2nd Wednesdays: Ignite!

Wednesday, October 9

6 to 7:30 p.m. - Get over that mid-week hump with a little spark to the spirit. Age-appropriate fellowship and fun are on the menu, plus pizza! Childcare for infants and toddlers is provided by our trained staff. While the children enjoy their activities, adults can either join the Dean's program or participate in a Parent Group to discuss relevant issues for all ages and stages.

Whether you come for one session or more, Wednesdays at the Cathedral offer something for everyone. Join us as we come together, share in fellowship, and grow in faith. Be on the lookout for new classes and programs. A menu will be emailed each Tuesday so you know what's cooking in the Cathedral kitchen!

We can't wait to see you at Jazz in the Garden - Sept. 20!

St. John's Cathedral Bookstore and Gift Shop has a new website that makes shopping for a cause a breeze - anytime, anywhere! Click the image above to go to the new site.

Blessing of the Animals

Sunday, October 6

9 a.m. | Cathedral Park

Pet Blessings | Pet Adoptions | Pet Photos

St. John's Parishioner Dottie Dorion and

the Jacksonville Film Festival

cordially invite you to the debut of

BEYOND TRIATHLON a documentary chronicling the incredible journey of women pioneers in the world of triathlon starring  Dorothy S. "Dottie" Dorion and Celeste Callahan. This powerful film highlights the achievements, challenges, and triumphs of trailblazing athletes including Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Nancy Hogshead, and others, with narration by the inspiring Sika Henry.



 October 12, 2024

2 - 5 p.m., doors open at 1:30 p.m

 Lazzara Performing Arts Hall, University of North Florida

Don't miss this unique opportunity to celebrate these extraordinary women and their contributions to the sport. The film is followed by "A Triumphant Toast to Excellence" reception sponsored by Bacardi where you can connect with other supporters and advocates for women in sports. 100% of proceeds from this event benefit University of North Florida scholarships for female student-athletes. 



Tickets start at $10. Secure your seat today and be part of this unforgettable event!

Purchase Tickets

Thank you!

We are grateful for your generous response to the call to help stock St. Mary's Food Pantry and support our neighbors!

Celebrating 20 Years: The Cathedral School

Celebrate an Upcoming Birthday or Anniversary

with Flowers for the Altar

Remember that when you donate altar flowers, your gift keeps giving. The altar arrangements are broken down into smaller arrangements and delivered to parishioners in the hospital and to those recovering at home. Of course, you are always welcome to bring your donated flowers home! Just let us know your intentions when donating.

Connect with us!