As we journey through the Lenten season, our focus on reconciliation has led to profound discussions and insightful events in our community. Let's take a moment to reflect on the classes that have taken place and those to come, all centered around the theme of embracing reconciliation.

The Dean's Forum kicked off this journey with Dean Kate providing a comprehensive overview of the sacrament of confession, delving into the significance of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. Following this, Paige Hakimian offered a thought-provoking exploration of the forgiveness process. If you weren't able to attend, no worries! Paige and Kate recorded in a podcast episode, providing an opportunity for deeper engagement and reflection. Listen here.

Coming up this Sunday, please join Joe O'Shields and Paul Arrington in a discussion of racial healing. Joe and Paul are co-chairs of the Diocesan Anti-Racism Commission and are now getting others in our Diocese involved in these efforts. Please have a look at the schedule below for more upcoming topics.

Beyond the Dean's Forum, we have two remarkable events lined up in March, both revolving around the theme of reconciliation.

Soul Gardening: Sowing the Seeds of Self-Love

March 9 | 9 a.m. to Noon

Led by the Rev. Dr. Linda Privitera, this session promises to be a transformative experience centered on reconciling with ourselves. Participants will explore the process of nurturing self-love and discover spiritual practices to help restore balance. An integral part of this session is a blind portrait exercise, offering a unique perspective on self-perception and acceptance. Register here.

Dialogue with the American Friends of the Parents Circle

March 16 | 9 to 11 a.m.

We have the privilege of hosting a dialogue with the American Friends of the Parents Circle. This extraordinary group of families, who have tragically lost children and loved ones to the conflict in Israel and Palestine, have chosen a path of understanding and reconciliation over hatred and revenge. Their inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and exemplifies the transformative power of reconciliation. This conversation promises to be both enlightening and inspirational, and we extend a heartfelt invitation to all to join us. Dean Kate will moderate the conversation. For your convenience, this program will be available online as well as in person. Click "register here" to find out more.

Register here.

As we continue our Lenten journey, may these experiences deepen our understanding of reconciliation and inspire us to live into its principles. Join us as we embrace the transformative power of reconciliation.

~Nancy Purcell, Director of Marketing and Communications

Tim Tuller, Canon for Music, gives notes on the service music for the 

Third Sunday in Lent, March 3, 2024.

Click image to view and/or download a PDF.

To prepare for the conversation, St. John's Cathedral Bookstore suggests two titles that provide excellent background information:

Purchase online here

Purchase online here

Adult Confirmation and Inquirers Retreat

Saturday, March 23

9 a.m. to Noon

Those who are interested in being confirmed and who are seeking to learn more about The Episcopal Church are invited to join Dean Kate for a half-day retreat. 

Bishop Stokes will confirm, receive, and reaffirm candidates after the 10:30 a.m. service on Palm Sunday, March 24. For more information, please contact Megan Cochran.

Stations of the Cross: Sculpture by Christine Bailey

"Christine's Crosses"

by Cynthia Parks, Times-Union staff writer

Sunday, April 7, 1974

The article "Christine's Crosses: Cotton Patch to Cathedral" tells the story of the sculptor Christine Bailey. During her lifetime, Bailey lent her massive religious figures to churches (often to St. John's Cathedral) but never gifted them. The article says that she had an inclusive attitude about faith. She once said that she'd like to have the stations placed in Hemming Park (now James Weldon Johnson Park) so that people might see them on their way to work and know Christ.

Her son Jerome McLean gave the stations to St. John's Cathedral as a memorial to his mother in 1974. That year, during Holy Week, his mother's sculptures were displayed in Burwell Court for public visitation. Fifty years later, you are invited to see Bailey's sculptures and walk the stations of the cross in Taliaferro Hall throughout the season of Lent and also during Holy Week.

Palanca Prayers Requested for St. John's Cursillo Pilgrims

Marc Willis is attending the Cursillo Men's Weekend February 29 through March 3.

Felicia Bullock is attending the Women's Weekend

March 7 through March 10

The word “palanca” is Spanish for a lever or crowbar. In the sense in which it is used in Cursillo, it means Eucharist, Rosaries, fasting, prayers, and personal sacrifices which are offered on behalf of the Cursillistas or Pilgrims. You are invited to write "palanca" prayers for Marc and Felecia and drop your prayer in the Palanca box that is under the table in the hallway across from the elevator. These prayers can express gratitude for the gifts of service, prayer, concern, and care shown by the recipient, reassure them of a power greater than themselves, or offer insights, words of wisdom, encouragement, and guidance. Place your prayers for each Marc and Felicia in the box prior to and during their retreat weekend. Thank you!

Save the date for our Spring Festival April 20 If you are interested in being a vendor or know someone who might be, click the image below to fill out the vendor registration form.

A beautiful and fond farewell to Father Gee! We will miss you greatly. You are beloved.

The University Singers delighted us with their beautiful voices! Thanks to Laura Jane Pittman for this video clip. Laura Jane and Buck's son sings with this a capella group.

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