Grace Cathedral

Spoken at the Holy Eucharist with Hymns and Choral Eucharist October 10, 2024

I have been a congregant of Grace Cathedral for more than three years, and I have been a pledging member for two.  

The question I often asked myself when I started to attend Grace regularly, before I’ve made prayer and worship a regular part of my spiritual practice, was “How do I know when I am healed?” 

Through serving in the Eucharist, I learned the importance of deep, thoughtful prayer, and how rituals are powerful tools for communicating the divine mystery. There was a period of time when I wasn’t praying for anyone, not even myself, and things have changed since I first started coming to Grace.  

 At Education for Ministry, I am challenged to think critically about stories and narratives, and how to approach difficult, often confusing text with a discerning and compassionate heart. 

In training to become a cathedral docent, I learned that art and architecture can convey our histories in rich and beautiful ways, and that it’s important to take care of our spiritual home if we want it to last for a long time. 

When I sponsored a youth on his confirmation and a friend on his baptism during the Easter Vigil, I learned that showing up for others is a way to help them navigate the intimidating process of spiritual maturity. 

As a member of the Congregation Council, I’m learning how to become a better leader, how to build relationships, and how to be an advocate for the leadership of others so that they can fulfill the work that God has for them.  

At The Vine, I learned the value of a chosen family, and how vital it is to have a space where we can learn from each other’s wisdom.  

And, by pledging to stewardship, I learned that the chance to speak in front of God’s beloved, is a powerful opportunity to take a look at my life, and ask, “Is this abundance?” 

I was born and raised in the Philippines; I am a gay man and an Air Force veteran, I served during the time of (and repeal of) “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell;” I haven’t yet finished my college degree which makes living paycheck to paycheck a difficult reality; my relationship of 11 years ended last year, and I felt alone and guilty; I am ridiculously homesick for my family in the Philippines, and I have struggled with feelings of loneliness and isolation; and there were very real moments when I thought, “I can’t do this, Lord, life is too hard.”  

But in every single challenge, I found Grace in unexpected places—in the warmth of a smile, the comfort of a familiar face, and in the quiet strength of this cathedral community that held me up when I felt I couldn’t stand. 

I’ve come to learn that healing is not a single moment but a journey, and Grace Cathedral has been a vital part of mine. Our stewardship pledges do more than keep the lights on—they enable Grace to remain a beacon of hope, inclusion, and love for anyone who walks through these doors.  

By supporting this sacred space, we empower one another to find peace, purpose, and connection in ways that speak uniquely to our own hearts. Our generosity ensures that Grace Cathedral continues to be a place where everyone, no matter where they come from or what they carry, can experience the fullness of God’s love. I hope you will join me in making a pledge—a pledge for the nurturing of a community that has been, and will continue to be, a part of my healing—and can be a part of yours too. 

Peace and love. 

Consider Pledging to Grace Cathedral