An article for the Cathedral Times
by the Rev. Deacon Juan Sandoval, Deacon for Hispanic Ministries and Pastoral Care
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! I could use this word to describe the Cathedral of St. Philip. However, it cannot describe the breadth and depth of the Cathedral. I don’t know what word to use, but I can tell you how proud I am when people ask me what church I am at. And I can say with great pride and love, the Cathedral of St. Philip.
Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to experience many different and wonderful Episcopal churches. Each one with its own uniqueness and lovely ministries. Some of the churches were small and some were very large. Some with limited resources and ministries, some with many resources and many ministries.
Serving in the military for many years gave me the opportunity to also serve in many churches. For the past eleven years I have served at the Cathedral of St. Philip. When I arrived, I was not sure what was ahead but could only say hello to the possibilities.
So here I am and each day I continue to marvel about the Cathedral and all that it has to offer. This Cathedral is truly amazing and what makes it so special are the ministries that touch so many, the laity and staff of the Cathedral.
Someone getting baptized? Our wonderful Baptism Guild ensures that parents and godparents are prepared for this wonderful sacrament through Saturday baptism workshops. The Baptism guild prepares all the necessary items for the Sunday baptisms.
Getting Married? The ceremonies at the Cathedral are beautiful and many are so many involved. The time with clergy, premarital counseling at the Cathedral Counseling Center. Beautiful arrangements thanks to our amazing Flower Guild. The Altar Guild prepares the altar with all necessary accoutrements. Finally, the Wedding Guild prepares for the bride and groom and their attendants. Oh, Happy Day!
Celebrations of life are made personal and loving by our Funeral Guild. These dedicated folks are not only in the church but are also present as we often do interment services in our Memorial Garden.
Our ushers assist at most of the services, Cathedral and Diocesan, to provide service leaflets and guide our faithful to the pews. They are at baptisms, weddings, funerals, confirmations, and all Sunday services throughout the year. Steadfast, constant and caring.
The Episcopal Church Women have many guilds, and they assist with churchwide events. The Cathedral is blessed to have so many ladies involved in the work of the Cathedral and the community.
Certainly, the music program at the Cathedral of St. Philip is perhaps the best in the world. It features deep and touching music, superb uplifting music, and a choir that is second to none. The choir practices diligently, and their music resonates deeply with the congregation, touching their hearts and souls.
Finally let me acknowledge our fantastic sexton crew. All the work they do is often unnoticed. They set up and tear down for various events so all will have the arrangement needed for the event. All this and they keep the Cathedral clean and ready for whatever is next.
Let me pause and say that I am constantly amazed by the work of the laity of the Cathedral. So many wonderful and vibrant programs, so many opportunities to be involved in the work Jesus has sent us out to do.
At each location I’ve been to, I’ve found a few special individuals who loved what they did. However, at the Cathedral, I am always grateful for the tremendous staff. Grace, excellence, hospitality and innovation, but they are so much more than that. They find new ways to serve and support the mission of the Cathedral. Our administrative staff are always willing to assist and find ways to facilitate what we do for the People of God.
I really can’t truly express my appreciation and constant amazement at the tremendous House of God for all people. Thanks to All.