Dear Cathedral,

As many of you have heard, Father Gee will retire at the end of this month. He has served in many parishes throughout his forty-four-year career as a priest, both in New York City and in Florida. He has been with us here at the Cathedral for about four years. In that time, we all have come to love him dearly.

Gee is a true pastor. His greatest joy comes in the wee hours of the morning when he appears in the hospital waiting room to pray with one of you before surgery. He visits homes, rehabilitation centers, and hospice units, bringing hope and laughter wherever he goes. We all have been blessed to watch Christ serve the world through Gee. He has truly been the hands and feet of Jesus.

Join me in celebrating his retirement this Sunday, February 25, 2024, after the 10:30 a.m. service. There's still time to donate to his retirement purse. Use the button below to donate online. In addition, please write a note of thanks and appreciation and bring it with you on Sunday. Let's shower Gee with love.

May God bless you.

In Christ’s love

Kate+

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

Second Sunday in Lent, February 25.

DEAN'S FORUM

Embracing Reconciliation: A Lenten Journey of Healing and Renewal

9 a.m. | Taliaferro Hall

As the season of Lent unfolds, Christians around the world embark on a sacred journey of reflection, repentance, and reconciliation. This period of 40 days, mirroring the time Jesus spent in the wilderness, offers a unique opportunity for believers to focus on the theme of reconciliation—a powerful and transformative aspect of the Lenten experience. Join us each Sunday in Lent as we explore the theme of Reconciliation.

February 25 - The Psychology of Reconciliation   Led by Paige Hakimian

Join PhD candidate Paige Hakimian as she discusses how reconciliation benefits psychological health and increases wellness.

March 3 - Racial Reconciliation       Led by Joe O’Shields and Paul Arrington

How do we come to terms with our history? How do we reconcile the wrongs of the past? The history of slavery and ongoing racial oppression runs far deeper into the very systems in which we inhabit. How does reconciliation occur today?

March 10 - Reflecting on Brokenness: Using Art to Forgive     

Led by the Rev. Dr. Linda Privitera

How can art heal? How can art be a vehicle to help us learn to forgive? Join the Rev. Dr. Linda Privatera as she explores how art can be instrumental in reconciliation.

March 17 - Environmental Reconciliation 

Led by Ellen and Phil Peterson and St. John’s Cathedral Bookstore and Gift Shop

Considering humanity's role as stewards of creation, individuals are prompted to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to the healing of the Earth as an integral part of their Lenten journey. Hear some practical ways to live in a reconciled relationship with the earth today.

"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.

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.

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!

Moments of togetherness were captured at the Shrove Pancake Dinner. Deep appreciation to the Brotherhood of St. Andrew for their hospitality. Thanks to Pam Searcy for these beautiful photos.

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