Grace Cathedral

I first came to Grace Cathedral last December seeking a vibrant faith community. I feel our country and city desperately need communities that strengthen our connection with God and with one another, which then leads us to understanding, respect, and kindness.

I was not prepared for the immediate and significant impact that worshipping at Grace would have on me. My connection to God has been strengthened, and I’ve quickly become part of the community.

In June, I participated in the book study about How to Know a Person by David Brooks. Fellow congregants Joanne and Richard Compean led the class in deep discussion and offered tremendous hospitality. Through the book study and their friendship, I have been introduced to exceptional people here at Grace Cathedral, and I have been impressed with everyone’s thoughtfulness and commitment to one another.

I shared my story and passion around faith communities with the Rev. Mary Carter Greene, and we talked about how I could contribute at Grace. She offered the idea of starting a new ministry focused on welcoming and connecting new people to Grace by collaborating with Grace’s ministries.

Goals for this new ministry are to ensure that every new person who attends a service is greeted, meets someone, and has a conversation. Then, for those who are inspired to deepen their involvement, members of our ministry will guide people new to the cathedral and support their involvement in a ministry at Grace. Many people who come to church seek a sense of belonging and contribute to something bigger than ourselves. The Welcoming and

Connecting Ministry seeks to identify the spiritual gifts of new people and inspire their use for the church and for God.

When I first came to Grace last December, I made plate offerings when I worshipped. I was embraced by the warm community here. By January I knew I wanted to formalize my membership, so I pledged for stewardship 2024, and have already renewed my commitment for 2025. So, if Grace is compelling for you too, I hope you will take that special step to pledge to stewardship. Grace depends on all of us participating to sustain this vibrant community that is growing and adaptable.

I have a special request: when you are worshipping at Grace, I hope you say hello to someone you don’t know and ask them how long they’ve been attending Grace, or what brings them here.

Join me in making a connection today. Together, we will ensure that everyone feels the warmth that I experienced a year ago, and that our community thrives.

Consider Pledging to Grace Cathedral