I hesitate to speak too easily of a “vision,” especially “my vision.” I am more at home speaking of “sightings” or even “glimpses.” These signposts can really only be fully seen from within the local context, and they are lived out more like an adventure to be undertaken than an agenda to be implemented. But, for urban cathedrals, there are some common directions.

An urban cathedral, an Episcopal cathedral, is both grounded and open. Christ is at the center and the gospel of grace is unmistakably proclaimed. Near the center is a congregation, a eucharistic community worshipping according to the Book of Common Prayer. That congregation welcomes convinced believers, strugglers and searchers, those with the mere thread of a desire for God and those who value ritual and tradition without being sure of their beliefs. The community life welcomes young and old, those who want an active parish life and those who prefer to “hide behind a pillar.” The openness and hospitality of the cathedral extend beyond the worshipping congregation to such a broad orbit that it is difficult if not impossible to draw a line that defines who is in or out of the cathedral’s life.

Worship is the single most important thing that a cathedral does, and it should be done in the most excellent way possible (which is not necessarily the same as the most elaborate). The Prayer Book provides the pattern and is observed fully. Space is also provided for private prayer and reflection. From worship extend other values and pursuits that the cathedral strives for as best as it can in its context such as music, art, education, and mission.

The cathedral is a place of education, both supporting and challenging people in their daily lives and work. The living tradition is learned and theological and spiritual matters are presented and probed. Important church, social, and civic issues are raised, but in a climate of discernment and respect for the range of faithful views, rather than partisanship. A civil discourse that values diversity and difference is sought. However, when convergence appears and consensus is approached, the cathedral is not afraid to take a stand.

The cathedral is a place the city and diocese look to for important occasions, and it is capable of hosting such events. It is both a place where people of renown can speak or perform, and a place of welcome for those who have little voice or presence in community awareness.

The cathedral mission has some neighborhood impact, but also a metropolitan awareness and outreach. It will launch and maintain unique programs of outreach but will more often be a partner and catalyst with ecumenical, interfaith, and community groups that are working together for justice, reconciliation and development. It recognizes that mission primarily takes place through the lives of its members and friends and it supports them in this.

The cathedral has a deliberate diocesan awareness and outreach. The bishop is welcome to a supportive spiritual home and to a place for teaching and mission, and diocesan clergy, laity and groups know they are welcome as well. The cathedral provides both an accessible model and a unique resource for the rest of the diocese. This further extends the cathedral’s mission as suburban and rural perspectives interact with the urban.

These and other “sightings” emerge in the course of a cathedral’s ongoing life. At times some will receive more emphasis and attention than others. At any time there can be surprises of grace or mission urgency that provide new, even unexpected glimpses of the way ahead.

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