CATHEDRAL | EASTER 2013 Gun Violence in America Lenten Crosses: Sawn, Shot, Burned

CATHEDR AL AGE WASHINGTON NATIONAL CATHEDRAL | EASTER 2013 gun violence in america Lenten Crosses: Sawn, Shot, Burned

At the height of the Bosnian War in the mid-1990s, sofa with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., at artist Thomas Sayre found himself reflecting just lunch on Sunday afternoon (just days before King’s before Holy Week on the violence that people inflict assassination) and Dean Sayre’s trip to Alabama to upon other people. His meditation on that theme march across the bridge with Ralph Abernathy and became a trio of crosses, each four feet square, and other civil-rights leaders. each—sawn, burned, or shot—distressed through Thomas today is best known for his technique of a diΩerent means of violence. The pieces were “earthcasting,” creating monumental sculptures from displayed during Holy Week at his home parish in poured concrete using molds fashioned deep into Raleigh, N.C., St. Mark’s, where they remain on the ground. This art aligns in many ways with the permanent exhibit. A few years later, for Lent 1999, current “green consciousness,” which it predates, but all three pieces traveled to the National Cathedral more importantly it creates places where people can cover detail from for an exhibition in Resurrection Chapel. Sayre later find themselves in relation to the natural world and artist thomas made a number of smaller, 20 by 20–inch crosses can discover new spiritual dimension in their lives. sayre’s gunshot- that St. Mark’s uses for its Stations of the Cross distressed lenten Standing prominently on public land and in major cross (shot) each year. cities across the country, this work clearly reflects photos provided by t. sayre The son of the Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre, Jr., the creation of vast and holy space at the Cathedral: above lenten fifth dean of Washington National Cathedral, another place where a powerful mixture of craft and crosses: sawn, shot, Thomas grew up on the grounds of the Cathedral stories (even when unfamiliar) combine to point burned, in situ at st. mark’s church, in what was then merely called the Deanery but now beyond themselves, lending inspiration and new raliegh, n.c. is known as Sayre House. He credits attending St. perspective to all who enter. Albans School, attending services with his mother A closer look at the cross featured on the cover, and siblings, and absorbing the skills and creativity steel mounted on a wood panel, can be an arresting of artisans and builders who were constructing the experience: the bullets that passed through had all Cathedral itself among his influences when maturing been pointed at the viewer. The art demands that from a young boy to a college-bound man. A faculty you consider the violence of someone shooting—at member at St. Albans introduced him to welding to you. “You have to own human violence in order to create art, for instance, and in a basement workshop beat it,” Sayre explains. at home Thomas’s father showed him woodworking. He also remembers sitting on the living room To see more of his work, visit www.thomassayre.com. CATHEDR AL AGE EASTER 2013 d. marks Contents

2 Comment 14 Why Gun Violence is 28 In Memoriam obituaries of artisans, preachers, A Public Cathedral a Religious Problem administrators, and stewards the very rev. gary hall the very rev. gary hall 30 From the Pulpit 4 Taking a Stand 18 “Guide Us in the Lessons from Moses New Dean’s Activism Mirrors Way of Truth” the rev. adam hamilton a Founding Ideal The 57th Presidential Inaugural The Cross Lobby richard m. weinberg Prayer Service the very rev. gary hall margaret shannon 9 Faith in America Broken Windows interviews with David and 22 Sustaining Support the very rev. gary hall Scarlett Lewis, Ann Wilson, Creative Acts and Tom Sullivan celebrating a gift from Kate Holmes Caldwell 36 Passages reflections on faith in America from different "A Most Successful Flower Mart” religious backgrounds or perspectives 24 Focus a look at the history and wisdom News from the Cathedral in the Cathedral Age archives panel on China, photography exhibit, marriage equality, staff departure, Senator Inouye’s memorial service, and a restoration update

above colin goddard, survivor of the 2007 virginia tech shooting, with maryland congressman chris van hollen and cathedral dean gary hall on saturday, march 16, as part of a panel discussion during the gun violence prevention sabbath weekend. commentAcomment Public Cathedral

American culture is highly individualistic. We understands its life and ministry as centrally engaged Americans tend to personalize ethical decisions in public life. A cathedral [from cathedra, bishop’s chair] and appeal to the Bible for guidance about our is a bishop’s church, and the ministry of bishops in individual moral decisions. But the Bible’s major Western Christianity is essentially a public one. ethical concerns are actually corporate, social ones: Bishops are the focal points for faith and ministry economic and social justice; the treatment of the in our church, and their cathedrals have historically poorest and most vulnerable; peacemaking at home been the places where their public ministry is lived and abroad. Those of us who lived through the civil out. Because we are both the Washington and the rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s remember a National Cathedral, we are naturally concerned with time when the mainline American faith community social issues that have both a profound theological engaged in dialogue and action around that great grounding and combined local and national impact. social, moral issue. Those who have come into the Gun violence, poverty, education, healthcare, human church more recently have seen only the conservative, rights: these are religious, social issues that rightly evangelical segment of Christianity at work in the claim the attention of a national and local cathedral political arena. So when a major faith institution such church. as Washington National Cathedral re-enters the As to the second, suΩering: in the Western public square, some understandably ask what religion intellectual tradition, we are accustomed to has to do with politics. examining issues abstractly, from a distance. No Because our Constitution disallows the establishment one can read the interviews with survivors of gun of any one faith as America’s “o≈cial religion,” violence in this edition of Cathedral Age and come away some have thought that the “separation of church untouched. Christianity is an incarnational religion, and state” would relegate all religious activity to one that understands truth to be embodied both in a the private, personal, individual sphere. While that person (Jesus) and in the human community. Because impulse is an understandable one, it betrays a shallow gun violence has emerged as the primary religious and understanding both of the Constitution and the social issue of our moment, we feel it is essential that Bible. Not establishing one religion is not the same we look beyond the policy questions to the cost of gun as saying religion has no role in public life, though violence on particular human lives. there are those who would like to compartmentalize A longtime priest friend of mine is fond of observing religion and isolate it from our ongoing social that a mature faith community, like a healthy discussion, there is nothing in the historic Anglican family, can talk about sex, money, and politics. As way of understanding scripture or tradition to a church striving to be a spiritual home for the support that point of view. nation, Washington National Cathedral strives Hence the occasion for this issue of Cathedral Age. In to be a mature faith community as well. In the the following pages, we address two major questions following pages you will encounter a history of that that any mature faith community must consider: what maturational process as lived out in the ministries are the key issues in our public life that demand our that have gone before us in this wonderful place. I attention, and what does suΩering look like from the hope you will find strength and encouragement for victim’s point of view? your own prayerful engagement in our public life.

As to the first: because we are a cathedral church the very rev. gary hall in an historically Anglican mode, Washington cathedral dean National Cathedral is the inheritor of a tradition that

right then-dean nathan d. baxter offering a sermon 2 cathedral age about violence and youth after the massacre at columbine high school in 1999 photo k. cobb CATHEDR AL AGE

Cathedral Age is the official quarterly publication of Washington National Cathedral. the very rev. gary hall dean

Cathedral Age is produced by the Communications and Marketing Department of Washington National Cathedral. richard m. weinberg director of communications craig w. stapert associate director for online strategies mimi m. mcnamara senior graphic designer m. leigh harrison communications manager cathedral chapter David J. Kautter, chair; Alexander H. Platt, vice-chair; C. Raymond Marvin, secretary; Thomas W. Anderson; Maxmillian Angerholzer iii; Boyce L. Ansley; John D. Barker; Richard F. Bland; Dr. Ann Carol Brown; The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of Washington; Timothy C. Coughlin; Robert B. Coutts; The Hon. John H. Dalton; Cynthia Fowler; The Hon. C. Boyden Gray; The Very Rev. Gary Hall, dean; The Rev. Martha Horne; Craig M. McKee; Dr. Eric D. K. Melby; Dr. Eric L. Motley; The Hon. Thomas R. Pickering; Geoffrey S. Stewart; The Rev. Dr. James P. Wind; Dorothy Woodcock =

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4 cathedral age Taking a Stand New Dean’s Activism Mirrors a Founding Ideal by Richard M. Weinberg

n January 2013, the Washington Post reported that the cross lobby”—has drawn much admiration from if the Very Rev. Gary Hall had his way as new people in favor of greater regulations on the sale and Idean of Washington National Cathedral, “the ownership of guns, even as it has aroused the ire of Cathedral would be less a ‘museum’ and ‘more a those who view new measures as a threat to their Sec- place with a mission.’” ond Amendment right. The dean’s strong stand from Although it seemed like an oΩ-the- the pulpit put the Cathedral in national headlines for cuΩ remark, long-time members of the days; in January, Hall was the only Cathedral community knew that Hall faith leader invited to participate was subtly declaring his intention to in a Capitol Hill press conference embrace the Cathedral’s rich history at which Senator Dianne Feinstein of prophetic witness and activism. (d-calif.) introduced a renewed ban on assault weapons. “When we chose Gary Hall, we anticipated he would be an advocate For Hall, however, his role as a in the Cathedral’s pursuit of social national spokesperson is part of a justice, and that he would use the ministry focused on Gospel-based Canterbury Pulpit to preach about mission and activism that he hopes the Christian faith as it influences can further inspire the Cathedral’s American culture and political life,” supporters within Washington, the said Alexander Platt, vice-chair of wider Episcopal Church, and across the Cathedral Chapter, who led the denominational lines throughout search committee that called Hall in the summer of the country. In the weeks since he first invoked the 2012. “From the beginning, we were confident that he “cross lobby,” the Cathedral has distributed thousands would lead the Cathedral with courage and boldness.” of cards to worshipers and visitors urging them to contact their legislators in support of the assault Hall didn’t wait long to get started. weapons ban, universal background checks, and other Following the death of 28 people during an elemen- measures designed to prevent both mass shootings tary school massacre in Newtown, Conn.—20 of and curb the epidemic of urban gun violence. In whom were first-graders—Hall first spoke out against partnership with the Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, gun violence in a rousing sermon on December 16, bishop of Washington, and others, Hall has become 2012, calling on the nation to embrace stricter gun active in coalitions of fellow faith leaders working on control measures. The congregation interrupted his the issue. In early March the Cathedral hosted an sermon once with applause and greeted its conclu- interfaith gathering in partnership with Faiths United sion with a standing ovation. His now oft-quoted to Prevent Gun Violence, inspiring grassroots faith phrase—“I believe the gun lobby is no match for groups to get to work in their own communities.

left former cathedral dean francis b. sayre, jr., walking behind above dean gary hall with sen. dianne feinstein the cathedral apse with the rev. dr. martin luther (d-calif.) before a press conference introducing a king, jr. photo cathedral archives renewed assault weapons ban in january 2013 easter 2013 advocating for equality Karnas wrote, “For the sake of my children and future generations, I could not be more pleased with Calling people to action against gun violence in the the courageous decision you have made.” wake of the Newtown killings has not been Hall’s only eΩort in making the Cathedral more prominent an enduring ideal in its advocacy for equal justice. Hall’s first major Hall is not the first dean to lead the Cathedral in pronouncement as dean, in concert with a decision taking prophetic action that excited controversy. The by Bishop Budde on behalf of the Episcopal Diocese Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre, Jr., fifth Cathedral dean, of Washington, let it be known in early January that flew to Alabama in March 1965 to join Dr. King on the Cathedral would begin performing same-sex the final leg of the voting rights march from Selma marriages. to Montgomery. Looking back today, Hall argues, no “As a kind of tall-steeple, public church in the nation’s one would criticize his predecessor for standing up capital, by saying we’re going to conduct same-sex for civil rights; but in 1965, it was a hugely divisive marriages, we are really trying to move. Sayre’s decision to take the next step for marriage invite King to preach in 1968 equality in the nation and in the was similarly controversial. culture,” Hall told the Associated The Rev. Canon Michael Press. A long-time supporter of Hamilton, who served with the full inclusion of lesbian, gay, Sayre beginning in 1964 and bisexual, and transgendered (lgbt) went on to lead Cathedral people in the life of the Church, programming for nearly four Hall has said he considers marriage decades, recently reflected on equality the great civil rights issue of that period. “The Cathedral the twenty-first century. could do something else that The decision was hardly surpris- the parishes couldn’t, which ing within the Episcopal Church or was deal with the big national the Cathedral community. Hall is and international issues,” he co-editor of a 2011 volume of essays said. “Under Frank [Sayre’s] that lay out a Christian case for lgbt encouragement—‘think big’— equality, and the Episcopal Church we expanded the traditional had approved a rite for same-sex or at least the historical blessings at its General Convention mission of the Cathedral for in July 2012. Still, response from 25 years.” around the country was quick, strong—and sharply Although more attention has sometimes been paid to divided. The Cathedral’s main phone line and the the inspiring edifice of the Cathedral building itself, email inboxes of staΩ were flooded for days following the Cathedral’s mandate to be a champion for Gospel the announcement. The National Organization for values was integral to its founding vision. “This is a Marriage denounced the decision while the Human new sphere for a Cathedral to fill, which will make Rights Campaign called it a milestone. The Cathe- it distinctly an American Cathedral,” wrote the dral’s number of followers on Facebook increased by Rt. Rev. Henry Yates Satterlee, the first Episcopal more than 200 in just one day. bishop of Washington and “master builder” of the Among the dozens of supporters who wrote to Cathedral, in 1901. “The very fact of the necessary express their gratitude to the Cathedral was Fred and complete separation of Church and state and the Karnas of Arizona, 64, a Baptist whose parents ignoring of all religion in the written Constitution were married in the Cathedral in 1947. In an email, of our country emphasizes the need that the church

above bishop freeman on the cover of time, october 1927 6 cathedral age should bear unfaltering witness for Jesus Christ at Washington, D.C. Walker became diocesan bishop the seat of government.” in 1977 and, following Sayre’s retirement in 1978, The Rt. Rev. James E. Freeman, one of Satterlee’s became dean of the Cathedral as well. successors as bishop of Washington (1923–1943), Throughout his service, Walker was an indomitable carried the founding vision forward. An October voice on issues of racial reconciliation in Washington 1927 issue of Time magazine with his image on the and across the world. He was a leader in the fight cover said, “Episcopalians call Bishop Freeman against apartheid in South Africa and a close friend of ‘the twentieth-century prophet of the Church, a Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In 1985, he was arrested leading exponent of prophetic ministry.’” Freeman in an anti-apartheid protest in front of the South was an outspoken critic of anti-Semitism, unusual African embassy in Washington, D.C. for his time, and an advocate for religious liberty. Under Walker’s leadership, the Cathedral also joined He participated in an interfaith rally in December the movement to address hiv/aids and to minister to 1938, covered by the Washington Post, “to promote the those infected while consistently rejecting the notion conviction that religion is essential to true democracy that the disease was God’s way of punishing gay men and to express profound sympathy with victims of and drug users. In 1986, he convened a conference intolerance and cruelty in all parts of the world.” The to discuss the role religion could play in curbing the rally was presided over by Rabbi Abram Simon of epidemic. In 1988, the Cathedral displayed the aids Washington Hebrew Congregation, with which the Memorial Quilt and hosted an interfaith service for Cathedral still enjoys a strong relationship today. aids victims, beginning a tradition that has recurred During a record tenure of nearly three decades as five times. dean, Sayre not only carried forward the legacy of bending toward justice his predecessors; he ensured that the Cathedral’s prophetic legacy would outlast him. He hired the Remembering his tenure in a 2000 interview, Sayre Rev. John T. Walker, a leading black Episcopal wondered about the ultimate eΩect of the Cathedral’s priest, as the Cathedral’s canon missioner in 1966. prophetic stands. “Our pulpit became the place where When Walker was elected bishop suΩragan in 1971, the pertinent issues in the capital city were preached he became the first African-American bishop of about often,” he said. “Controversial issues

above bishop john walker (at microphone) at an anti- apartheid demonstration in front of the south africian embassy, march 1985 photo w. carnahan easter 2013 were often preached at makers, voters, and the Cathedral . . . . But lobbyists—and refusing whether the Church has to be complicit in the the power to change the systemic injustice, soul of the nation is a poverty, racism, and question never answered violence that infects by anyone.” our culture.” Hall finds himself heir Hall’s theology to the Cathedral’s legacy echoes Pulitzer of Gospel activism at a Prize–winning time when the nation is historian Jon less religious than at any Meacham’s assessment time in its history. Some in his 2006 book, wonder how to engage American Gospel, of people in their twenties and thirties and the growing religion’s role in American life. “The great good news number of Americans who consider themselves about America—the American gospel, if you will— “spiritual but not religious.” In today’s world, does a is that religion shapes the life of the nation without national church’s mission mean anything beyond its strangling it,” Meacham writes. “Belief in God is own walls? central to the country’s experience, yet for the The new dean believes so. “Neither God nor the broad center, faith is a matter of choice, not coercion, First Amendment wants us to issue religious dictates and the legacy of the Founding is that the sensible on behalf of the country. We shouldn’t confuse center holds.” ourselves with the national churches of countries Although the Cathedral’s prophetic stands have with established religions,” Hall has said. “Our at times been judged radical by critics of the day, mandate is to be a witness for Christian beliefs and history confirms that leaders such as Freeman, Sayre, values in the midst of this city that is both the federal Walker, and those working with them have held the government’s seat of power and home to staggering center in their fights for justice and equality. To use inequality. And when we join with people of faith the image that King made famous in his sermon from across America’s diverse religious landscape, we the Canterbury Pulpit, they have helped bend the arc actually can aspire to change the soul of the nation. of the moral universe toward justice. CA “One of the ways we are called to do this,” he continued, “is by speaking to legislators, decision-

top interfaith leaders gathered on the one-week anniversary of the newtown, conn., shootings in december to honor the lives lost and to dedicate themselves to preventing gun violence photo d. marks bottom dean hall appeared on cnn 8 cathedral age during its live coverage of inaugural events on the national mall in january photo r. weinberg

Interviews with David and FAITH Scarlett Lewis, Ann Wilson, and Tom Sullivan in AMERICA

This series features reflections on faith in America—from prominent thought leaders and individuals of different religious backgrounds or perspectives. For this issue, Cathedral Age spoke with people with a first-hand understanding of the impact of gun violence in America. The interviews excerpted here with individuals whose lives have been changed forever by shootings—with David and Scarlett Lewis, Tom Sullivan, and Ann Wilson—tell of great pain as well as great resilience at the very limits of faith in America.

easter 2013 “I believe that Jesse fulfilled his purpose being here even though it was for a shorter how has faith amount of time than chalkboard. He playedCA a role in the wrote it some aftermath of this I would have liked. I time shortly tragedy for you? believe that part of that before he died, but I found mr. lewis My daughter it a couple Scarlett, Jesse’s mother, purpose in the tragedy weeks go. It has a great deal of faith. was to create a global said “Nurturing The faith that Jesse has Healing Love.” moved to a different world awareness that we need All of these is very important to her, to move toward love.” things kind of and she’s felt the sense of moved together Jesse’s spirit. She has tried to help found the Jesse Lewis Choose to approach this tragedy by really turning Love Foundation. I was moved by that her anger to love, forming what’s called and by my own belief that love is the the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Foundation. foundation of the human being. And, of And the basis of that is that we feel that course, “God is Love” (1 john 4:8)—and the core problem in our society is not all these things came together. necessarily guns but that we have a great David and Scarlett Lewis remember deal of anger in society. [On the day of the shooting,] Jesse’s Jesse, Scarlett’s son and David’s father was picking him up to take him to You know, we can teach kids to go to grandson, who died in an attempt to school, and I had sat down to kiss him the moon, but we can’t teach them save the life of a friend at Sandy Hook goodbye when I saw that he had written how to get along with each other. And Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., “I love you” on the car window. And there’s something wrong with that. We’re December 14, 2012. Jesse was six something within me told me, “Go in planning what is really a pretty broad- years old. and get the camera, take the time.” I ran based effort in response—and one that is back with my camera and I placed him faith-based, certainly: based inlove. right by those words, and I actually took could you tell us about jesse? So how do we teach kids they don’t have CA two pictures. ms. lewis Jesse was always larger than to go that way? I don’t think they know Faith is what has gotten me to this point. life. I remember being at the hospital that, and, you know, I don’t think I knew Faith got me out of bed every morning, and walking down to the nursery and that as a young person. We’re really just the knowledge that Jesse is in a better seeing all the nurses from all over taking missing something if we don’t tell our kids place. Valentine’s Day was the second- pictures of him—because he had actually that they don’t have to choose anger: that month anniversary of the shooting, and crawled down from the bottom of his there’s a better way to create inner peace, we’ve received such an outpouring of love little bassinet, and nobody had ever seen and it’s a better way to live your life. a child crawl who was a day old. And that the families made valentine posters ms. lewis I believe that we are here for and gave them to neighboring towns, first that’s a fitting start for his life, because reasons and that if we’re living we have a he was . . . or he is—I don’t use the past responders, individuals, everyone—our purpose, and I believe that Jesse fulfilled state troopers, people who were with us, tense, because his presence, although not his purpose being here even though it in physical form, is still very much with and also people at the firehouse that day was for a shorter amount of time than when we got the news. me—he is a force. I mean, he entered the I would have liked. I believe that part of So each family brought a bunch of room and there was energy that came that purpose in the tragedy was to create valentines to different places, and I was with him, and you immediately became a global awareness that we need to move supposed to bring valentines to the state aware of him. People that met him once toward love. remembered him. troopers. One of the mothers came with Jesse left little messages for us, and me to do that, and we went to the office— one of them was written on my kitchen and the head sergeant or the head of

left jesse lewis opposite james and daniel wilson 10 cathedral age photos provided by the families the state troopers came out, and he be one of them. I did talk to him said, “I was the one that went in and a lot about it, to be careful, and checked the children to see if they I remember him always saying, were alive. I was the first person in, “A bullet doesn’t have a name and . . . I personally held each of your on it, Ma.” children.” And he said, “I want you to know: I don’t know what your faith is, what happened to but as I held those children they were CyourA husband? whole and they were peaceful, just like It was pretty much a similar they are now.” And I reached out and I situation. Danny and James, my touched his shoulder and I said, “I believe “That was the longest husband, were very outgoing, friendly that, too.” That was very moving for me people—and whenever asked a favor and very sweet, that a person of faith had night ever. We came they would usually try to comply. My held my child during that time and saw am home around 3 and husband had a charter boat that he ran on him as he is now. we couldn’t even speak. the Anacostia River, and he loved to take people out on it. Ann Wilson remembers her son Daniel There were no words to There was an event they had that night and husband James, who died within five even say to each other, on the boat, and after that event one of years of each other at the ages of 20 and the other captains on the boat had asked 50, respectively, during a long period of we were just so numb, him to give two young people from the elevated gun violence in the late eighties and I felt like other boat a ride home. So he gave them a and early nineties in and around the ride home—and when he got to the nation’s capital.* people saw everything last person’s drop-off, he was ambushed. and we were excluded He was shot 14 times, in the car, and can you tell us what the detectives said it was a case of a happenedCA with your son? from that—to even be mistaken identity. My son Danny was killed first, in a double there when he took his how have you gotten homicide: him and a friend. He had been last breath.” throughCA this, ann? what has called by his friend to pick him up to helped you personally to cope give him a ride, and that was about 12 or with such unimaginable loss? 11:30, and within about 30 minutes I got I wanted to go and didn’t know if he the call that he had been shot. That was was dead or alive. It started, actually, at Covenant [Baptist in Washington, D.C., and it was in the Then I believe we went to the morgue Church]. I grew up—and I raised my seventh police district—and actually in a to identify him, by a picture. That was children—in the neighborhood where neighborhood where I had grown up. the longest night ever. We came home Covenant is, and so from time to time we might visit that church. I knew about I wish I had words to say what the call around 3 am and we couldn’t even speak. Covenant, and I knew of its work in the was like. It came from a friend who There were no words to even say to each community, and I was drawn to them to actually, I guess, saw the shooting. other, we were just so numb, and I felt like ask if I could have Danny’s funeral there. The young people told me where it had other people saw everything and we were Both of their funerals were held there. I’ve happened, and of course I wanted to excluded from that—to even be there been there almost 20 years, maybe a little go there, but the police said that we when he took his last breath. more than 20 years, and a lot of it stems should come to them instead, and they Danny was murdered in ’91, and from ’88 from the murders and coming back to a instructed us not to go to the scene; and to about ’91 there was a lot of things going place that I was familiar with. of course, as a mother, I wanted to go— on, but I really didn’t think my son would

*editor’s note: Although her son’s case has been closed, Ms. Wilson tells Cathedral Age that after 17 years her husband’s case is still unsolved. easter 2013 I just knew it was out of my hands! So they could do something now, it would Tom Sullivan remembers his son I had to turn to God. And I did go stop it in its tracks. Even living alone I Alex, who was killed July 20, 2012, at a through some very trying times. I was still wouldn’t get a gun. I wouldn’t have movie theater in Aurora, Colo. He was already prone to anxiety because my a gun in my home for the mistakes that celebrating his twenty-seventh birthday mother had it, but then after the murders you could make with it and the type of and would have celebrated his first I had post-traumatic stress, which was weapons that young people have that wedding anniversary just two days later. awful: I couldn’t drive, I didn’t want to can rattle off 10, 12 shots one after the go out of the house, I didn’t want to be other. I just think it’s too easy for people around people. And I was concerned to get guns, and I would be one who about my other children: James, Jr., would be supportive of getting rid of Yolanda, and Veronica. them. You know the fight between the There’s medication—but God’s arms nra and the government and everybody are also wrapped around me daily. God else? That feels like it’s a no-win has just been so faithful to always let situation, but I feel there ought to be me know he’s in control; that it’s not my a ban for access to guns. battle, but it’s his. And as frustrating as what do you think people of the police department had been with us, CfaithA should be doing to help I had to let that go. prevent more tragedies? were your husband or Faith communities have a huge role. I CsonA people of faith? know we have to be present at whatever You know, my husband was always hearings that are being held, whatever supportive of us going to church although marches are being held, whatever orga- he didn’t really go. He believed in a nizing is happening in the community— higher being, and we did talk about that, because it’s happening in our community, although I never fully knew what that and I don’t expect change to happen meant for him. With my son it was outside the community. I expect people interesting . . . because the night he was in the community to pull together; and killed, actually, I had gone to the store to if there’s a nationwide legislation that get his favorite meal—I don’t know what happens, it’ll be because the commu- drew me to do that—and when we sat nity—and the faith community—came together. down to eat dinner he was talking about can you tell us about your God. It was just so profound for me: that We can’t talk about faith and Christ just sonCA alex ? connection at that very moment. And inside the walls of the church. We have to then two hours later he was gone. go outside: the work is outside the walls Well, he was a young man who was of the church. And so wherever there’s just kind of starting out. He was very what is your opinion organization within the community, we outgoing—had that Irish gift of gab, where CA on the gun debate? have to be there. he could talk to anybody—and he had great empathy and compassion toward When I look back at all the young people You know, there’s a church on every others. Sometimes you could just sit who died from ’88 to about ’94 when corner—in some places, three in a block— next to him, and he could tell if you were all that was going on—I think they were so the churches make up a huge number having a good day or a bad day, and he calling D.C. the crime capital of the of people that could be representative at could reach in and try to make your day a nation—I think about the kind of guns a march. And you know that in the past, little bit better. Alex could hear what you that people had and the ability to get it with some of the marches in the civil rights had to say. He was a great guy . . . and I’m without an id or however that works. I movement, they were heavily faith-based so proud of him. He was working hard mean it just seems like people have such organizing efforts—and I think we have to and was set to achieve things, and he just easy access to the weapons, that . . . it’s get back to that. Because that’s where the got taken from us way too early. frightening. It’s frightening to know that change comes from: it comes from the nothing’s been done up till now—but if people. It comes from the people.

above alex sullivan photos provided by the families

12 cathedral age how has faith played a role in Aurora is where he grew up. I’ve worked attended, although certainly there were yourCA grieving process as a family? in Aurora all this time, too. And so when people who had been there that night and Just a year before, Alex had decided to the community said that they wanted were injured. [My wife Terry and I] sat be confirmed. He grew up as a Catholic, the theater to be reopened—that it was a there, and looked at each other, and we and we’d had him baptized but never part of the community—then we agreed remembered how much we had always confirmed, and as he got older it came that that was what we should do. What’s enjoyed going to the movies. And it felt to him as something that he wanted to happened is much bigger than just me, like we could go back into movie theaters do. Of course Alex was always busy with and bigger than any one person, because again. We’d been reluctant to do anything work and different things, but his mom there’s a whole community here. We’re all like that before now, but now I think we’ve would always meet up with him at church working through it a day at a time. empowered ourselves to go back. on Sundays. It was a special time that If I can help people through the difficult many of our readers were deeply they could share each week. Now we’ve times, or try to, I want to do that. There affectedCA by the elementary school started going back on a are still people shooting in newtown, conn. what was more regular basis. “What’s happened is out there your reaction? I never thought of my who have much bigger than just me, We’ve gotten all kinds of cards and letters faith as being all that severe injuries from people since what happened with strong, but people have and bigger than any one from what’s Alex, and I had never really known how commented on the happened: person, because there’s a much power there was in just a card or in strength that they’ve there are having somebody out of the blue send you seen come from my whole community here. people who a note. So when Newtown happened, I wife and me through lost fingers, sent a couple of the families a note as well. all of this, and they at- We’re all working through who have lost I told them that we’re now part of a bigger tribute it to a faith that legs; there are it a day at a time.” picture, and I shared my thoughts about we have inside of us. I 20-year-old Alex since we’re also still in the beginning believe that’s how we were able to begin kids who are walking around with canes part of this. I also had to tell them: the sun early on, and I mean very early on, the cel- and will have a limp or have to use some comes up the next day—and I reminded ebration of Alex’s life. kind of device to get around for the rest of their lives. Those people are the people I them to work through that. As I’ve told everybody, we have people try to reach out to and try to help through That’s something I would never have praying for us . . . and I have to tell them this, and I also want to make other people thought to have done before. When that, somehow, those thoughts and aware of how these people were affected. Columbine happened I remember sitting prayers come to us. And I think that helps and watching it all on tv. When Alex and us to have this inner strength that we how was the experience [his sister] Megan came home that day, have so that we’re able to move forward a CA of going to the reopening of the I hugged them both and told them about little bit. I always tell people we’re moving movie theater? how much I cared—but I didn’t think forward—but not forgetting. No one’s It was kind of empowering, overall, about the people that were affected. But forgetting anything. But we are moving because it helped us deal with what had after what happened to Alex I can see forward. The thoughts and prayers that happened there: there was a 900-pound how other people saw us. That really people continue to send our way? We gorilla sitting in the movie theater, you meant so much to us, so now I try to be catch those, those come to us somehow, might say, and we didn’t know how to see more cognizant of that and try to reach and that gives us the strength that we past it or how to move it out of there. But out to others that way. And hopefully need. We appreciate all of the thoughts when we got to go there that night, and that’s what I can continue to do. and prayers. Keep ’em coming. heard the speeches that were made, and how have you chosen to saw those other people who had been rememberCA and honor alex? seated there that night—you know, the more online gorilla walked out of the theater. Alex is everywhere. Alex is in our hearts, Read to the complete interviews excepted here at every day, and I can come home and We realized we were probably the only www.nationalcathedral.org/ people who had lost a family member who see him and feel him within the house. easter2013age

easter 2013 Why Gun Violence is a Religious Problem by Gary Hall

December’s horrific shootings at that I had the opportunity to do some Sandy Hook Elementary School in extended thinking about evil as a Newtown, Conn., came at the end of philosophical and religious problem in a year filled with shocking gun deaths. the year before I came to the Cathedral: There were mass shootings, as at the I taught a class to seniors at Cranbrook Wisconsin Sikh Temple and the movie School, where I was serving as chaplain, theater in Aurora, Col. There was called “The Problem of Evil.” This was the daily drumbeat of gun deaths in not a class I would have thought up on urban neighborhoods across America. my own; I took it over from a faculty Something about the Newtown colleague who had to leave school massacre finally prompted many suddenly because of a family emergency. preachers, including me, to address the One of the things I learned in preparing problem. Enough, we said, was enough. for that class is that our definition of Those of us who have taken on the evil has changed over time, though we gun issue in pulpits have received have always defined evil as having to much response—most of it positive, do with the suΩering of the innocent, some of it critical. We are lauded for we talk about evil diΩerently in the taking a public stand on an important post–twentieth century world from issue, taken to task for mixing politics how we did before. Before the modern and religion. From the beginning (let alone postmodern) era, people of my foray into this matter, I have tended to think of evil as something consistently said that the Church with cosmic causes: the innocent should address it because gun violence suΩered because they were possessed is primarily a religious issue. I’d like by demons, say, or because the larger to use this opportunity to explain evil force personified as Satan created what I mean. chaos. In the age of science, though, our defining evil definition of evil has shifted: we now increasingly define “evil” as something In the early days following the caused by human agency: genocide, Newtown shootings, I was called oppression, sexual abuse. on in interviews to respond to a characterization of that event as an When the 2011 earthquake struck example of evil. It happens, however, Washington National Cathedral,

14 cathedral age vigil in front of burruss hall, the main administration building at virginia tech, on april 16, 2008, the one-year anniversary of the shootings there photo kyle swanson/collegiate times easter 2013 nobody characterized that event as network, bringing aid and comfort to an example of evil. When the 2012 those cast aside by the Roman Empire. shootings at Newtown happened, The Bible may not speak with one voice though, everyone did. Prior to the about why suΩering happens, but it is twentieth century, clergy were routinely unanimous in its claim that human called on to explain the meaning of suΩering demands the active response natural calamities. Nowadays we’re of faithful people. Jesus was probably asked instead to address the disasters more famous in his day as a healer than made by human beings. as a teacher. God’s will is that people human suffering live whole, free, joyful lives. And God has gathered a community who will Whether we think of evil as caused work to bring wholeness, freedom, by cosmic or human activity, the and joy wherever there is sickness, problem of innocent human suΩering oppression, and pain. is still a core religious question. Every major religion attempts to explain (or So one way to understand the Church’s at least respond to) suΩering. In our call to end gun violence in America own tradition, the Bible gives us the (or at least greatly reduce it) is to see story of Job and, of course, the example this call as the natural consequence of of Jesus. our compassionate response to human suΩering. We follow One who died Job—the exemplary man whose at the hands of violence. That One children, possessions, and health are has called us to be agents of love and taken from him for no fault of his healing in the world. The only way we own—is an example of the premodern can address large-scale questions of suΩerer. Jesus—the exemplary man love and justice is in the public arena. who dies at the hands of what the old And when we enter the public arena, Prayer Book called “sinful men”— we necessarily have to do with politics. could be said to be the first example of modern or postmodern suΩering. Both a public church are innocent. One suΩers at the hand of When people complain that activism God, one suΩers at the hands of people. to eliminate gun violence is political Neither deserve what they get. We are and that preachers should get back to left to make sense of their suΩering as religion and leave politics to others, I best we can. have two responses. One is about the Christians (as well as Jews and nature of public life. The other is about Muslims) have long found the meaning the nature of a public church. of innocent suΩering less in speculation Christians have no warrant to think about its cause and more in the magically. If we are to be postmodern response it elicits from us. Think of (and not premodern) in our response Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan, to evil, then we will agree that, for us in where three people leave a man to die the twenty-first century, the problem in the road and only one responds by of evil is a human problem. Innocent giving him aid. Think of the crucifixion people die because people do bad of Jesus himself, which arouses the things. Societies deal with people who compassionate response of the men top memorial left for victims of do bad things by acting corporately to and women who were his companions. the july 20, 2012, shooting in aurora, prevent and punish bad behavior. They Think of the book of Acts, where the colo. photo t. barg act corporately by means of legislative earliest Christian community is seen center soldiers of the connecticut action. Because we live in a republican national guard’s 143rd mp co, currently as a sort of underground social service stationed in afghanistan, say a prayer democracy, our laws are enacted not for the community of newtown, conn. photo u.s. national guard bottom candlelight vigil in memory of chicago teenager hadiya pendleton, 16 cathedral age february 12, 2013 photo getty images from above but by means of political compassion. Because there is nothing organizing. If we want to deal with a we can do to prevent natural disasters, public, human problem, then politics when tsunamis and earthquakes happen are necessarily going to be involved. the best we can do is send aid. Human “Politics” is not a dirty word. It’s the way behavior is responsive to concerted human beings organize their social lives. action. When malevolence causes the For us Christians, the Bible is the deaths of children—in schoolrooms source of our teaching on moral and and on city streets—we can and must ethical issues. And when we look at take action both to heal and to stop it. the Bible for guidance, we discover A church that did nothing in the face of what often surprises people who innocent suΩering wouldn’t be worthy are unfamiliar with the scriptures. of the name. Instead of being preoccupied with Although I am the leader of the individualistic moral problems Washington National Cathedral, that dominate our contemporary I do not presume to speak for the thought, the Bible is overwhelmingly Cathedral or its members. But I do try concerned with public—not private— to articulate what I hear God calling us morality. The big problems for the to do. I realize that everyone in our life Bible’s voices (the prophets and Jesus) does not agree with me. Anglicanism is are social issues: economic justice, a comprehensive tradition, and people relief for widows and orphans, fair of good will can diΩer about the best treatment of those who live at life’s means to address questions of social margins. For every admonition about and personal suΩering. The goal, of personal behavior, the Bible probably course, is to eliminate gun violence. has five exhortations toward social The exact mix of the ways we do that— compassion and justice. The pervasive gun legislation, mental health reform, individualism of American culture a more critical look at the culture of tends to read the Bible through the violence—is open to conversation. I lens of its own preoccupations and so believe that the goal and the dialogue to cast morality as primarily a personal around it are holy, and that we are and private aΩair. But morality for the acting in the best, deepest traditions Bible is primarily a public business. of the Gospel when we take up these For the scriptures, justice in Israel is questions and act on behalf of past, a higher priority than personal moral present, and future victims. decisions. It’s not that the latter are not “All we like sheep have gone astray. important; it’s just that the former is We have turned everyone to his own exponentially more so. way. And the Lord has laid on him taking action the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah’s words All of which leads me to say that are routinely applied to Jesus, and reducing gun violence and taking the they could be said of the victims of necessary political steps to do so are, at Newtown, Aurora, Columbine, and their root, profoundly spiritual concerns. Virginia Tech, too. I ask that you join me by studying, thinking, praying, and As people of faith, we are repeatedly top vigil to honor the victims of the asked to respond to and alleviate the august 5, 2012, shooting at the oak acting to stop gun violence in America. suΩering of the innocent. However you creek, wisc., sikh temple photo d. britt/ How we face into and address the washington post define evil—whether it’s caused by the iniquity laid on Jesus and those who die center a 1993 memorial at the violently will prove the measure of what devil or by a madman—faithfulness national mall reflecting pool to to Jesus and the One he calls his honor those killed in washington, d.c., kind of a church we finally are. CA Father demands that we respond in gun violence photo a. wilson bottom soldiers gather for a twilight vigil at fort hood, november 6, 2009 photo u.s. army

easter 2013 Guide us

18 cathedral age in the way of truth

The 57th Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service by Margaret Shannon

On January 22, 2013, President Barack Obama and Vice President Joseph Biden began their second term in o≈ce by attending the presidential inaugural prayer service at Washington National Cathedral. Accompanied by family members, they marked the fifty-seventh inauguration with members of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. On the coldest morning in the nation’s capital in more than two years, some 2,000 invited guests shivered in the single-digit winds that whipped across the Cathedral’s west entrance as they queued to pass through security screenings. Cathedral Carillonneur Edward Nassor played American patriotic music on the 53-bell carillon as they arrived. Red, white, and blue flowers continued the patriotic theme within the Cathedral. Red Gerbera daisies and roses, blue agapantha and delphinium, white germini, lisianthus, daisy mums, and anthurium—and tea leaves symbolizing good luck—cascaded from monumental urns and adorned the Canterbury Pulpit and lectern. opposite the wpas children of the William Walton’s stirring Crown Imperial brought pomp gospel choir above the president to the organ prelude, echoed by a selection of American and first lady sing the national music played by the Brass Ensemble of the “President’s anthem photos d. marks Own” United States Marine Band, directed by Col. Michael J. Colburn, including Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man. The Washington Performing Arts Soci- more online ety (wpas) Children of the Gospel Choir, who also sang at View the service at President Obama’s first inaugural prayer service, sang two www.nationalcathedral. pieces under the direction of Michele Fowlin to close the org/easter2013age prelude, just as the president himself arrived.

easter 2013 one nation under god The Rev. Dr. Sharon E. Watkins, general minister and president of the Christian Church (Disciples of The Rev. Gina Gilland Campbell, the Cathedral’s Christ) oΩered an opening acclamation. The prayer director of worship, worked closely with the Presi- for the day, read by the Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams- dential Inaugural Committee and Joshua DuBois, Skinner, co-chair of the National African American then special assistant to the president and executive Clergy Network, preceded the singing of the National director of the White House O≈ce of Faith-based Anthem. The Rev. Elder Nancy L. Wilson, moderator and Neighborhood Partnerships, to design the inter- of the University Fellowship of Metropolitan faith service of music, readings, and prayer. “The most Community Churches, read from Isaiah (55:6- rewarding part of preparing the service,” said Camp- 11), marking the first time the predominantly gay bell, “was the surprisingly rich and deep dialogue denomination participated in a presidential inaugural experienced in working with our interfaith partners to service. Rabbi Julie Schonfeld, executive vice bring their own way of praying into the service. Above president of the Rabbinical Assembly, led a responsive all, we wanted to be respectful of the faith traditions reading of Psalm 116:4-12, after which the Cathedral represented, while maintaining the form and function Choir sang John Rutter’s familiar setting of “For the of the liturgy itself.” Beauty of the Earth.” Campbell arranged the liturgy to include participants chosen by the White House and to use the nave prayers for those who govern meaningfully. She placed the Christian, Hebrew, and Cantor Mikhail Manevich of Washington Hebrew Muslim chanted calls to prayer to the mid-nave so Congregation chanted the traditional Jewish Sh’ma they would “evolve as a natural progression of moving Yisrael (Hear, O Israel) to invite prayers for those who part of the liturgy into the midst of the people so they govern, which were read by the Rev. Dr. Leith Ander- would be embraced by the surrounding sound.” son, president of the National Association of Evan- gelicals; Kathryn Lohre, president of the National Colorful and distinctive vestments worn by the 23 Council of Churches; and Imam Mohamed Magid, participants reflected the unprecedented diversity of president of the Islamic Society of North America. their faith traditions: Christians (Protestant, Evangel- His Eminence Donald Cardinal Wuerl, Roman ical, Roman Catholic, and Greek Orthodox), Hindus, Catholic archbishop of Washington, D.C., read from Jews, Muslims, and, for the first time, a Sikh. The Rt. 2 Corinthians (4:6-10). First Lady Michelle Obama Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of Washington, led a spontaneous standing ovation for the wpas Chil- and the Very Rev. Gary Hall, dean of the Cathedral, dren of the Gospel Choir after their performance of a oΩered the o≈cial Cathedral greeting in Spanish and contemporary pop anthem, “Determined to Go On.” English when the procession concluded.

left jewish cantor mikhail manevich center muslim cantor dr. abdullah m. khouj right christian cantor allison mondel photo d. marks 20 cathedral age suggested that the president had missed his calling: “Unlike any other president that we’ve had, you have the ability to cast vision and inspire people. You should have been a preacher,” he said, to knowing laughter. Noting that January 1, 2013, marked the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, which earned Abraham Lincoln the sobriquet of Great Emancipator, Hamilton drew upon Moses (emancipator of the Hebrew people) for lessons in compassion, vision, and perseverance. Speaking directly to the president, he said, “Lead us, Mr. President, to be a compassionate people, concerned for the marginalized. Help us rediscover a vision for America that is so compelling that it unites us and calls us to realize the real potential of America to be that ‘shining city upon a hill.’ And, when you feel your lowest, don’t give up. Rather, wait upon the Lord and he will renew your strength.” As a meditation following the sermon, Dr. Wintley Phipps, prayers for those who serve bass-baritone and founder of the U.S. Dream Acad- Dr. Abdullah M. Khouj, president and imam of the emy, sang the popular 1960s hit, “I Believe.” Islamic Center in the District of Columbia, chanted a The Most Rev. Katharine JeΩerts Schori, presid- traditional Muslim call to prayer leading to prayers for ing bishop of the Episcopal Church, oΩered a prayer those who serve. OΩering those prayers were Sapreet for the nation. The Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell, senior Kaur, national executive director of the Sikh Coali- pastor of Windsor Village United Methodist Church tion; the Rev. Charles Jenkins ii, senior pastor of Fel- in Houston, then led the Lord’s Prayer. In response, lowship Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago; and Canon Michael McCarthy’s poignant arrangement Dr. Stephen F. Schneck, director of the Institute for of “America the Beautiful” began with the voices of Policy Research and Catholic Studies at the Catholic children, expanding into four-part harmony, and ulti- University of America. The Rev. Gabriel Salguero, mately the whole congregation—accompanied by full president of the National Latino Evangelical Coali- organ and brass—singing of the “patriot dream that tion, delivered the third reading (matthew 5:13-16) sees beyond the years.” in Spanish and English. The service culminated with blessings given by prayers for the people Laila Muhammad, founder and executive director Allison Mondel, Cathedral cantor, sang Hildegard of of Ash-Shamsiyyah/The Umbrella Family Service Bingen’s twelfth-century chant Nunc gaudeant as the in Chicago, and by Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of invitation to the prayers for the people, which were the Union for Reform Judaism in New York. The read by Rabbi Sharon Brous, founding rabbi of ikar Rev. Dr. Raphael Gamaliel Warnock, senior pas- Jewish Community; the Rev. Dr. Serene Jones, presi- tor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, of which dent of the faculty at Union Theological Seminary in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was pastor at the time New York; and His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of his assassination, closed the service with words of America, primate of the Greek Orthodox Church from King’s last Sunday sermon delivered from the in America and exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarch- Canterbury Pulpit on March 31, 1968: “We must all ate. The congregation then joined in the sermon learn to live together as brothers and sisters or we will hymn, “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” all perish together as fools.” compassion, vision, and perseverance The Washington Ringing Society attempted a The Rev. Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of United quarter-peal in celebration of that most quintessential Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, of America’s civic ceremonies—the quadrennial inau- Kans., delivered the sermon. Dr. Hamilton wryly guration of a president of the United States. CA above the rev. elder nancy e. wilson giving the first reading photo d. marks easter 2013 a community of cathedral friends sustaining support Creative Acts a gift continues generations of shared endeavor

Let us consider two important factors, the two poles of the creation of art: the artist on the one hand, and on the other the spectator who later becomes posterity. —marcel duchamp, “the creative act”

The Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, home Center for Prayer and Pilgrimage offerings as to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, is a one-third of the a cappella vocal trio Trinitas. It grand space consecrated to musical art. comes as no surprise to hear that music runs It’s no surprise that it has inspired Cathedral in the family’s blood. Kate’s father, the late donor Katharine Holmes Caldwell, the bso’s George Holmes, was a member of the Yale director of philanthropic services. Kate is an “Whiffenpoofs” as well as the “Augmented accomplished musician in her own right, part Eight”—and her great-great grandfather, of a family whose musical and artistic talents Gen. Luther S. Trowbridge, was at one time stretch back generations. What an honor, president of the Detroit Philharmonic Society. then, to learn that this family’s talents have The Cathedral is a family tradition, too. No long been nurtured by, and have found expres- fewer than eight of Kate’s close relatives are sion in, the Cathedral. buried in the crypt or columbarium, in fact, “I remember it like it was yesterday,” Kate dating back to great grandparents Alexander says. “I was a student at the Potomac School, “Alex” Buel Trowbridge and the former and we sang in a production of Noyes Fludde Gertrude Sherman. Alex and Gertrude, who by Benjamin Britten at the Cathedral.” The were married in 1896, are said to have met in Potomac choristers were joined by student Paris while she was at the Paris Conservatoire singers from Beauvoir Elementary, St. Albans studying music. He was at the École des School for Boys, and National Cathedral School Beaux Arts continuing studies in architecture for Girls in one of the largest-ever productions and would become a prominent architect of Britten’s operatic account of the Great in New York City and ultimately dean of the Flood in the book of Genesis (6–9). Britten architecture school at Cornell University. had intended the work to be performed in His preeminence led to an invitation in parish churches—even large ones—but the 1932 to be part of the Cathedral Council, a Cathedral production was truly something governing board that would soon be chaired else. Conductor John “Jack” Langstaff, a noted by industrialist Andrew Mellon. Trowbridge interpreter of the work and creator of the still- accepted the invitation with alacrity, writing popular Christmas Revels, was at the culmination of his with excitement to Canon Anson Phelps Stokes that career at Potomac. The space within the Cathedral was so “when the nave and tower are finished, the Cathedral large, and the massed musical forces within so enormous, will dominate the entire city and will make a very striking that, Kate recalls, “several conductors had to be stationed silhouette against the sky.” He spent the following down the nave to make sure everyone came in on time.” summer with Gertrude in England and on the continent, The 1967 production of Noyes Fludde was, for Kate, conducting several weeks’ careful studies of Gothic among the transformative experiences of her youth. But architecture that were soon published in Cathedral Age. it would not be the last time this soprano would sing at Subsequent generations only added to the beauty of the the Cathedral. Years later, at the invitation of then-Canon Cathedral. Kate’s aunt Millie Holmes designed much of Eugene Sutton, she would perform regularly at Cathedral the needlepoint for the Children’s Chapel at the Cathedral,

top cathedral age, winter 1932/1933, in which alexander buel trowbridge’s article on english cathedrals appeared bottom alexander buel trowbridge photos provided by k. caldwell 22 cathedral age for example, and both her grandmother Katharine and great aunt Alice Trowbridge Strong were loyal supporters of All Hallows Guild. Alice is honored by a plaque in the Bishop’s Garden, designed the fountain at the garden’s south wall near the weeping cherry tree, gave the Japanese-style footbridge that spanned the ravine in the Olmsted Woods, and served two terms as chair of the guild’s important Garden Committee. Kate’s father, A Bridge to the Future George, also served for years as a dedicated Whether you’re the first generation in your family National Cathedral Association trustee and to love the Cathedral, or the fourth, planning a as an active docent in his retirement. bequest is an easy way to make the Cathedral part When George died, Kate wanted to of your personal history. Over the years, bequests celebrate his life with a legacy commitment to the Cathedral have provided essential funds in her parents’ honor. The Cathedral—a for renovation, insightful programs, and critical timeless musical, architectural, and artistic ministries for people in need—as well as a flourishing expression that the family had supported for center for inspiration and art. You can join Kate by generations—was the obvious choice. using your individual retirement account (ira) to Ultimately, Kate decided to name the make a simple deferred gift. Cathedral as a beneficiary of her ira in Naming Washington National Cathedral as a honor of her father George as well as her beneficiary of an ira account will accomplish a mother Nancy—both for their dedication charitable legacy while realizing significant tax to the family and to the artistic values they savings. Just contact your ira trustee or custodian championed that the Cathedral embodies. “It and complete the ira Designation Beneficiary form. was the simplest thing to do,” she notes. But It’s as simple as that. When you have finished, please I think it’s also important to give on an annual return the form to your plan administrator and basis. That ongoing relationship is really what notify the Cathedral. helps to sustain the Cathedral for generations

An ira is also an excellent vehicle for an outright gift. to come.” The ira Charitable Rollover was extended through Few can speak with as much authority as December 31, 2013, as a provision of the American Kate, whose family has made the Cathedral Taxpayer Relief Act. This rollover allows individuals more inspiring for nearly a century. age 70½ and older to make direct transfers totaling up to $100,000 per year to qualified charities, without having to count the transfers as income for left japanese-style footbridge in olmsted woods given in honor of alice trowbridge strong top gertrude trowbridge with twin sons sherman and buel federal tax purposes. Contact your ira provider to during wwi photo provided by k. caldwell center fountain in bishop’s garden learn their procedures. designed by alice trowbridge strong photo l. harrison bottom katherine holmes caldwell For more information, contact Marilyn Kochan at [email protected] or call (202) 537-5747. easter 2013 focus

In Search of China’s Soul Washington National Cathedral opened the nation’s best qualities when facing its doors to new perspectives on the hardship. The word was especially spirit of China for its 2013 Nancy and appropriate to the Cathedral, too, which Paul Ignatius Program on Wednesday, only weeks earlier had undergone January 30. Following introductory extensive damage from a magnitude remarks from Dean Gary Hall and 5.8 earthquake. Sarah Ignatius, Chinese dissident Chen Photographer Colin Winterbottom, well Guangcheng gave a keynote address. known to the Washington metropolitan James Fallows of the Atlantic magazine area for images that pay equal attention then moderated a panel with Dorinda Chen’s presentation moving and inspiring.” to glorious monuments and crumbling Elliott of Condé Nast Traveler, Cheng Li infrastructure—“both the grand and the The Nancy and Paul Ignatius Program of the Brookings Institution’s John L. gritty”—was brought in to help a team Fund was established by family and Thornton Center on China Studies, and of structural engineers document the friends in recognition of the honorees’ Jerome Cohen of nyu Law School. estimated $20 million in earthquake longstanding service and commitment The blind lawyer Chen achieved damage to the Cathedral. A subsequent to the Cathedral in countless ways, notoriety in China when he spoke collaboration with the Cathedral has including the nca, which Nancy helped out against forced abortions and now resulted in a collection of stunning to lead for many years. Each year’s sterilizations by local authorities as prints that showcase the building’s program enables the Cathedral to offer an excessive interpretation of China’s “bruised beauty” as restoration begins. one-child policy. After being imprisoned the public stimulating discussion from distinguished leaders and thinkers on “Gothic Resilience,” the exhibit for years on spurious charges and that opened at Long View Gallery enduring a long subsequent period of timely issues from the Cathedral’s vantage at the intersection of faith and in downtown Washington, D.C., house arrest in northeast China, he on January 10, is an initial record of ultimately engineered an escape to the public life. The program can be viewed at www.nationalcathedral.org. Winterbottom’s careful survey of United States embassy in Beijing and the Cathedral’s stone, wood, and glass won asylum in the U.S. Chen is currently Gothic Resilience and its open, soaring spaces. The studying law and working on a memoir classically styled photographs richly When he spoke at the Cathedral’s expected to be published later this year. locate the Cathedral as both a viewpoint tenth-anniversary commemoration “Anyone interested in China, anyone over a complex urban landscape and an of the 9/11 attacks, President Barack interested in democratic change and integral part of that landscape: an iconic Obama used the word “resilience” to the power of individuals and groups,” piece of the country’s architectural describe what he considered one of Fallows wrote afterward, “will find

top, both pages photos from colin winterbottom’s exhibition, “gothic resilience” 24 cathedral age center chen guangcheng and his wife news from the cathedral

Long View Gallery for an opening hailed by the Washington Post as a must-see event certainly agreed. A companion exhibition and other events celebrating Winterbottom’s recent work opened at the Cathedral this spring. Visit the website to view The scaffolding, erected with funds images and to learn more. from the generous $5 million Lilly heritage that resonates with people Endowment grant announced on the of varied faiths and speaks to the city Buttressing Buttresses one-year anniversary of the quake, as a whole. allows workers to inspect the damage In March, work began to repair some of more closely and determine the steps “My photographs are often about the the flying buttresses damaged during necessary for repairs. Initial reports impact monumental architecture has the August 2011 earthquake. Immense from head stone mason Joe Alonso and on its visitors,” Winterbottom noted, scaffolding was erected around the the consulting engineer indicate that adding that coming to the Cathedral more than 90-year-old limestone the damage may be a bit more severe following an earthquake was artistically buttresses along the Cathedral’s apse. and complex to repair from what was demanding. “I didn’t want the series The six buttresses of the apse moved initially observed from the ground. Still, simply to say, ‘Oh, look how tragic this significantly during the quake, resulting he stressed that the Cathedral remains is,’” by focusing on the earthquake’s in damage to the pinnacles atop the structurally sound while the long road of enormous destructive power alone, buttresses, and cracking and separation restoration moves forward. he explained. “A few months into the of the arch stones that span from the project now, I think I’ve struck that apse wall to the buttress pier. balance well.” The viewers who packed

above apse buttress damage photos j. alonso, m. harrison easter 2013 focus

preceeding the rally at United States Capitol rotunda, his body the Lutheran Church lay in state on the Lincoln catafalque. of the Reformation. At the Cathedral, his flag-draped Marriage Equality Hundreds of lgbt people, their families, casket was borne by a military honor Cathedral Dean Gary Hall and his wife and allies attended the service led by guard into the great crossing, where he Kathy, married for 35 years, came out leaders from Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim, was eulogized by the sitting president in support of the freedom of lesbian, and pagan faith traditions, as well as and vice president as well as a former gay, bisexual, and transgender people Christians from the Lutheran, Catholic, president, the Speaker of the House, to marry as the Supreme Court of the Episcopal, Methodist, Baptist, and and the Majority Leader of the Senate. United States heard oral arguments on Mormon traditions, among others. President Barack Obama, who was two two historic cases related to same-sex Attendees processed out of the church years old when Inouye was first elected marriage: California’s Proposition 8 and to the court singing “This Little Light to the Senate, said the day he died “was the federal Defense of Marriage Act of Mine.” in many ways a day like any other. The (doma). In a March 26 rally organized Aloha: Senator Daniel Ken sun rose; the sun set; the great work by the United for Marriage coalition Inouye (1924–2012) f our democracy carried on. But in a on the front steps outside of the court, fundamental sense it was different. It the dean addressed supporters. “The Official Washington filled the National was the first day in many of our lives— freedom to marry the person you love is Cathedral on December 21 to honor one certainly my own—that the halls of the not only a Constitutional right,” he said. of America’s most distinguished public United States Congress were not graced “It’s a moral right. As a straight man, servants. At his death, Senator Daniel K. by the presence of Daniel Ken Inouye.” my church and my government have Inouye was president pro tem of the In his very personal eulogy, Vice given me those rights. Those of us from United States Senate and third in the President Joe Biden, who served in the churches and synagogues and temples presidential line of succession, the first Senate with Inouye for a quarter of a and mosques gathered today are Japanese American elected to both century, said he often found himself saying: our faith communities are houses of Congress, the second lon- “wishing I could be more like him. He’s ready to extend those rights to gest–serving senator, and the highest- a better man than I am.” Inouye had everyone. It’s time for the government ranking Asian-American political leader encouraged Biden to stay in the Senate to do the same.” in American history. after his wife and daughter were killed. Early that morning, Dean Hall had Senator Inouye received the nation’s In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded participated in an interfaith service highest honors in death as well. At the Inouye the Congressional Medal

26 cathedral age news from the cathedral

of Honor for his heroic service as a (executive assistant to the dean) volunteer in the famed all-Nisei 442nd read the lessons at the service Regimental Combat Team. Describing attended by Canon Cox and Inouye as “one of the most remarkable her family. Andrew Hullinger, Americans I have ever known,” Clinton senior director for finance and said: “They blew his arm off in World administration, was cantor; the War II, but they never, never laid a finger Cathedral Choir of Men and on his heart or his mind.” Boys sang under the direction of Honoring Canon Cox Canon Michael McCarthy. The Rev. Gina Campbell, director On the evening of Tuesday, February of worship, officiated; Dean 7, an array of governance members Gary Hall gave a welcome; and and representatives of institutions the Right Rev. Mariann Edgar from across the Cathedral Close Budde, bishop of Washington, gathered for a special Choral Evensong was also in attendance. The in thanksgiving for the ministry of homily was offered by the Rev. Canon Kathleen A. Cox, who served as Canon John L. Peterson, recently executive director and chief operating elected president of the Anglican officer of Washington National Communion’s Compass Rose Cathedral through December 2012. Society. opposite Canon Cox’s time on Mount St. Alban left supporters of same-sex marriage Following the service, toasts and spans many years—her children have rally in front of the supreme court, tributes were given in thanksgiving for march 26, 2013 photo r. weinberg attended all three Cathedral schools— the ministry of Canon Cox. A letter also right president obama escorts mrs. but her work as one of the Cathedral’s inouye to her seat photo d. marks came from former Dean Sam Lloyd in senior leaders began in 2008, when this page Boston, which was about to be hit by then-dean Samuel T. Lloyd iii appointed left the military honor guard a blizzard, warmly reflecting on the places senator inouye’s casket her to a role with responsibility for all on the crossing platform significant challenges that Cox was able non-ecclesiastical and operational top right kathleen cox with her to lead the Cathedral through. matters at the Cathedral. daughter lauren egge and husband dr. alan egge The Rev. Dr. James P. Wind (former center right sheri jackson bottom right canon john l. peterson Chapter chair) and Sheri Jackson photos c. stapert

easter 2013 literally, a crowning achievement. The project came his way when despairing architects realized that the canopy’s proportions were off. Tucker suggested �n memoriamthat raising the arches to extend the canopy would work, but the architects demurred. “We see the reason, and it’s the solution,” they told him, “but it will take at least 21 pages of blueprints and six months of drawing before we can start. Can you make a model without blueprints?” Tucker did, working freehand, with flawless results. “‘If it’s busted, Carl can fix it’: this is carl malcolm tucker (1921–2013) not anything I can take any credit for,” titular head of the diocese that has There are probably a few polymaths he observed later. “It’s just 10 fingers the National Cathedral at its official like Carl Tucker in the history of and two eyes that see things in three seat. Raised into a devout Presbyterian every great cathedral, multi-talented dimensions, and patience, and stub- household, she became an ardently individuals who seem to live for each bornness; and heck, I do these things.” committed Christian at the age of 15 in complex new challenge that arises. Memphis during a “crusade” preached Although he officially retired decades Tucker’s handiwork is apparent by the Rev. Billy Graham. Years later, ago to Pine Beach, N.J., with his everywhere at the Cathedral, spanning when she officiated at the National wife Lyn (who had worked as Dean from west to east. The verses carved Day of Prayer and Remembrance at Sayre’s assistant for many years), into the narthex doors are his; so is the Cathedral in the aftermath of the Tucker retained an active interest the ingenious latch mechanism to the attacks of September 11, 2001, she in the Cathedral. The remark in an south balcony gate. He placed the would meet Billy Graham himself. earlier issue of Cathedral Age that exceptionally ornate wooden chair the August 2011 earthquake snapped “It was quite wonderful to be able to by the St. Mary’s Chapel altar that “aircraft cable” in the central tower tell him [my story],” she recalled in a echoes the doorway on the other side. carillon, for instance, inspired him to 2002 interview with radio host Diane Both south and north transept ceilings send the editors of this magazine a Rehm. “He looked at me and he said, are also Carl Tucker creations—the detailed explanation of why “die-drawn ‘You know I’ve had a lot of people tell latter embellished with a subtle stainless steel wire” was instead “the me about the impact I’ve had on their splash of gold in tribute to Halley’s only solution to the problems . . . of life, but I’ve never had anyone tell me Comet passing overhead. Tucker was ‘playing’ on a 100-ton instrument. Yes, I that they’ve become a bishop.’ [After a conservatory-trained flutist and am retired and far away,” he added in a the service I wanted] to be sure that he Cathedral Choir tenor who also lifted follow-up letter, “but no day ever goes was all right, and so I said to him, ‘Dr. beams, cast iron, and for the most part by without some thoughts of those Graham, may I give you a hug?’ and he drew on expertise that mysteriously wonderful times.” put his arms around me, and he said, seemed to come just when needed ‘You can be my bishop any time.’ It was most. His philosophy, as he recounted the right rev. jane holmes dixon really a full circle from my beginning as to interviewers and friends time after (1937–2012), bishop of washington pro-tempore 2001–2002 a young woman making an affirmation time over the years, was to say “yes” During her childhood in Mississippi of faith in a public way to have first—then figure out a solution. in the 1930s and 1940s, Jane Holmes this opportunity.” Tucker’s proudest accomplishment, a Dixon could hardly imagine that she revision to the underside of the high would one day be ordained a priest altar’s Majestus canopy, is undoubt- left carl tucker working on a model for or serve as a bishop—let alone the the majestus canopy photo h. byron edly the most obscure. It is also, Episcopal bishop of Washington, chambers right bishop jane holmes dixon photo m. bruce

28 cathedral age preachers, administrators, artisans, and stewards

the rev. elizabeth wiesner (1918–2011) The Rev. Elizabeth “Lee” Wiesner, one of the early women to be ordained in the Episcopal Church, died August 27, 2011, at the age of 94. Her remains were buried a week later in a private ceremony at Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston. A graduate of Stanford University, In 1984, as president of Riggs Bank she worked overseas during World and a close friend of the Cathedral, War ii with the Red Cross, in North Allbritton made possible the Africa; the Office of Strategic Services, conclusion of a large mortgage that a U.S. wartime intelligence agency; and the Cathedral had taken out to enable Dixon remained an outspoken the Foreign Service. In 1973, Wiesner construction during difficult years in leader whose last official roles at the was ordained to the diaconate—she the 1970s. A ceremony for the final Cathedral included the blessing of the would be the first female deacon in payment that was held in the Riggs aids Memorial Quilt panels from South her diocese—and on January 8, 1977, boardroom drew strong comparisons Africa. She also remained a thoughtful in the company of two other women, to a similar scene that had taken place preacher regarding the inclusiveness she was ordained a priest by Bishop in 1905, when Bishop Henry Yates of the Gospel and the gift of the William Creighton in an historic service Satterlee completed payments for the Incarnation, making her sudden death at Washington National Cathedral. on Christmas Day 2012 all the more mortgage on the Cathedral’s land. “No In 1976, Wiesner served on the bittersweet. “Like many,” as Bishop one can ever appreciate what it is to be planning committee for the grand Mariann Edgar Budde noted when delivered from this burden,” Satterlee service of nave dedication attended announcing her death, “I consider had written. “I feel like one released by Queen Elizabeth ii and President myself blessed to count Jane Dixon as from prison.” Bishop Walker, in reading Gerald R. Ford. She was appointed a friend and mentor. She paved the way those words again, remarked that he, in September 1977 by Dean Sayre for us; may we walk on in her spirit.” “as sixth bishop of Washington,” could “share those feelings with the first to the Cathedral staff, on which she canon joe l. allbritton (1924–2012) bishop. He spoke of his wonder at how served five years. Her thoughtful, On January 15, joined by his two he could have the courage to face the clear, and incisively eloquent letters to immediate predecessors as Cathedral financial problems and added that it constituents during that time display dean, the Very Rev. Gary Hall led could only have been accomplished a keen intelligence and pastoral a wide cross-section of friends, through ‘God’s grace.’” sensitivity as well as a devotion to the colleagues, family, and admirers longstanding theological and liturgical Joe Allbritton remained an agent from across the nation and the world traditions of an Episcopal Church that of God’s grace for the Cathedral in in paying respects to, and giving her ordination was helping to change. countless ways, including broadcasting thanks for the life of, Canon Joe Lewis the Christmas Festival Holy Eucharist A memorial service for Wiesner Allbritton: a man of abundant high from 1985 to 2010. In 2000, in being was scheduled for April 20, 2013, spirits and quietly dedicated generosity installed as an honorary canon of at St. Andrews-in-the-Valley Church whose legacy includes the completed the Cathedral, he received the in Tamworth, N.H. Cathedral building itself. highest honor the Cathedral Chapter can bestow.

left (l. to r.) bishop ronald haines, robert allbritton, joe allbritton, barbara allbritton, and dean nathan baxter at joe’s installation as honorary canon photo k. cobb right elizabeth wiesner at her ordination as one of the first three women ordained at the cathedral photo cathedral archives easter 2013 from the

excerpts of sermons from washington national cathedral pulpit LESSONS FROM MOSES A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. matthew 5:14b

Mr. President, Mrs. Obama; Moses’ humility was coupled with a deep and Mr. Vice President and Dr. courageous compassion for the marginalized Biden; leaders in government, and the oppressed. He was raised in Pharaoh’s business and faith: it is a household, in the lap of luxury. But when he privilege to be with you today, finally saw the plight of the Hebrew slaves, he and to oΩer the Word on could not remain in the palace. Ultimately he the occasion of this second risked his own life to demand their release and inauguration. spent the last decades of his life leading them This month marks the one- toward the Promised Land. hundred fiftieth anniversary This is what God looked for in every king who of the Emancipation ruled over Israel. Rulers who failed to take this Proclamation. Abraham seriously brought judgment upon themselves and Lincoln is known as the their people. Micah demanded that the people Great Emancipator. But long do justice and loving-kindness. Proverbs urges before Lincoln, there was a us to “speak up for those who cannot speak up man named Moses who was for themselves.” James says that “religion that is the great emancipator of the pure and undefiled before God is to care for the photo d. marks Hebrew people. On the occasion of the beginning widow and orphan.” And Jesus calls us to care for of your second term, there are three lessons I’d the “least of these.” In fact, he says that the Last lift up from Moses’ life that speak to leaders of all Judgment will come down to how we cared for the kinds and at all levels. poor, the sick, and the stranger. a heart of compassion for America at her best reflects this combination of the marginalized and oppressed humility and compassionate concern for the lowly. I begin with the heart and character of Moses. This is why Emma Lazarus’s poem is etched inside In Numbers 12:3, we read that “the man Moses the Statue of Liberty. Humility and courageous was very humble, more so than anyone else on the compassion for the marginalized and oppressed face of the earth.” I suspect that it was precisely were central to the heart and character of Moses because of his humility that he was chosen for this and must be to us as well. great task. Throughout Scripture God chooses and casting a vision for america uses those who are humble, who see themselves The second thing we learn from Moses is the as servants of the servants of God. Jesus teaches importance of vision. A compelling vision has the same thing when, on the night before his power. It unifies. It excites. It leads people to a crucifixion, as his disciples are arguing over which willingness to sacrifice and imbues them with a one is “the greatest,” he says, “the truly great sense of purpose. among you will be your servant.” He proceeded to illustrate this by washing their feet.

30 cathedral age Mr. President . . . help us rediscover a vision for America that is so compelling that it unites us.

Today America lacks any unifying vision. Without felt like he could not go on. He began to think of this we continue to bicker and fight and look a way gracefully to bow out of leadership of the upon one another with suspicion or contempt. movement. At midnight he bowed over the kitchen What most Americans long for is to find common table and began to pray. ground; a common vision that leads us to be “one King described what happened next, “I experienced nation, under God, indivisible.” In this city, and the presence of the Divine as I had never in this room, are the people who can change experienced God before. It seemed as though I this. This may be the most important issue you could hear the quiet assurance of an inner voice face, Mr. President. Without finding a way to saying: ‘Stand up for righteous, stand up for truth; bring Americans together, the divisiveness in our and God will be at your side forever.’” Imagine how country will continue to act as a poison that eats the world would be diΩerent had he not turned to away at the strength of our nation. God in prayer that night. God has given you a unique gift, Mr. President. The theme of this year’s inauguration was “faith in More than any other person who has ever held this the future of America.” But in this service we come o≈ce, you have the ability to cast vision in a way together to acknowledge that in order for America that inspires—you should have been a preacher! to have a future, we will first need to find a deep No, God has you exactly where he wants you to and abiding faith in God. It is this faith that calls be. If you can bring people together to find that and compels us to humility and a concern for the vision, and inspire us toward it—our picture of the poor. It is this faith that helps us discover the kinds Promised Land—anything is possible! of visions that are worthy of our sacrifices. And it is never give up this faith that sustains us when we feel like giving The last word I’d mention regarding Moses is up—a faith that comes from trusting the words of that, despite great opposition to his leadership, and Jesus, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of despite feeling discouraged at times, Moses never the age.” gave up. To be a leader is to invite criticism. It There’s a lot of darkness in the world. Lead us, Mr. doesn’t matter if you are a Sunday school teacher, President, to be a compassionate people, concerned a supervisor at McDonald’s, or the President of for the marginalized. Help us rediscover a vision for the United States: you’ll have no shortage of critics America that is so compelling that it unites us and if you lead. calls us to realize the real potential of America to be I’m reminded of the night in late January 1957, that “shining city upon a hill.” And, when you feel when Dr. King received a threatening phone your lowest, don’t give up. Rather, “wait upon the call. It was not his first call like this since the Lord and he will renew your strength.” Amen. Montgomery Bus Boycott. But on this night, as his —the rev. adam hamilton, january 22, 2013, children and wife lay sleeping, he said he finally presidential inaugural prayer service

easter 2013 from the

pulpit THE CROSS LOBBY Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our ancestor”; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. luke 3:8

We gather this morning in the And that leads me to say, on behalf of this aftermath of a national tragedy: faith community at least: enough is enough. As the killing of 28 people—20 followers of Jesus, we have the moral obligation of them children—at Sandy to stand for and with the victims of gun violence Hook Elementary School in and to work to end it. The massacre of these Newtown, Connecticut. Like 28 people in Connecticut is, for me at least, the you, I am still in the process last straw. And I believe it is for you. Enough is of sorting out all my emotional enough. The Christian community—indeed the responses to this horrifying entire American faith community—can no longer incident. In times like this, tolerate this persistent and escalating gun violence we all come together seeking directed against our people. Enough is enough. not so much answers as a For a variety of reasons our political culture has community in which to make been unwilling and unable to address the question sense of the questions. of gun control, but now it is time that you and Why do we as a society I, as followers of Jesus, help them to do that. tolerate these massacres in Our political leaders need to know that there is increasing numbers? And what a group of people in America who will serve as a photo d. marks are we, as people of faith, to do? As a way into counterweight to the gun lobby, who will stand answering that question, I turn to this morning’s together with our leaders and support them as Gospel passage, the account of John the Baptist they act to take assault weapons oΩ the streets. addressing the crowds who are coming to him out As followers of Jesus, we are led by one who died of some kind of personal and spiritual and social at the hand of human violence on the cross. We desperation. What does he say to them? “Bear know something about innocent suΩering. And fruits worthy of repentance.” You don’t have to we know our job is to heal it and stop it wherever be a New Testament scholar or an ethicist or a we can. moral philosopher to understand what John is Everyone in this city seems to live in terror of saying here. He’s saying: it’s not that complicated. the gun lobby. But I believe the gun lobby is no You already knew the answer when you asked match for the cross lobby. I don’t want to take the question. We’re asked to live mutually and away someone’s hunting rifle, but I can no longer honorably and compassionately for the well-being justify a society that allows concealed handguns of all.

I don’t want to take away someone’s hunting rifle, but . . . as Christians we are obligated to heal the wounded, protect the vulnerable, and stand for peace. The cross is the sign and the seal of that obligation.

32 cathedral age in schools and on the streets or that allows people on Friday. Let us pray for the parents and the other than military and police to buy assault surviving children and the pain they continue to weapons or that lets people get around existing endure. Let us pray for the shooter and the miasma gun laws by selling weapons to people without of sickness and pain he suΩered. Let us pray for the background checks at gun shows. As Christians, mentally ill and their families, and let us help those we are obligated to heal the wounded, protect the families more eΩectively cope with their sickest vulnerable, and stand for peace. The cross is the members. And let us pray for ourselves, that we may sign and the seal of that obligation. And we know have faithful courage to act, so that the murderous both from faith and experience that the cross is violence done on Friday may never be repeated, and mightier than the gun. The gun lobby is no match that all God’s children may live lives of wholeness for the cross lobby. and blessing and peace. Amen.

Let us rededicate ourselves today as agents of —the very rev. gary hall, december 16, 2012 Jesus’ love and justice and healing in the world. Let us pray for the children and adults who died

BROKEN WINDOWS Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. john 2:11

For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, world. Today’s Gospel is the and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, story of Jesus’ changing water until her vindication shines out like the dawn, into wine at a marriage feast and her salvation like a burning torch. in Cana of Galilee. There isaiah 62:1 are many possible ways to There are eight steps that lead up into this pulpit. interpret this story, but to me Every time I ascend these steps I remember that, on it has always been about the March 31, 1968, Martin Luther King, Jr., preached way everyday stuΩ can reveal his final sermon from this very place. Four days after the transcendent glory of the he preached here at Washington National Cathedral, divine hidden within it. In Dr. King was killed by an assassin wielding a gun. the presence of Jesus, water becomes wine. The ordinary If we want to stand with Jesus and with Martin becomes a window into the Luther King, we’ve also got to stand with those who, extraordinary. Here’s how like them, die by means of violence. John puts it at the end of the My thoughts about King’s assassination and passage: “Jesus did this, the first the experience of so many at the wrong end of a of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, gun lead me to this season of Epiphany and our and revealed his glory; and photo d. marks Gospel reading for today. The season of Epiphany his disciples believed in him” celebrates the manifestation of God’s glory in the (john 2:11).

easter 2013 from the pulpit

The point of our Gospel today is not that Jesus is into work and action to stop it, and to help heal the a magician. The point is that the glory that Jesus wounds of a nation that has already suΩered too reveals in himself is God’s glory, and the big truth much because of it. on oΩer here is that not only Jesus but all God’s So in the spirit of Dr. King, I want to say that precious human creatures similarly reflect and reveal opposing gun violence may have political implica- that divine glory. Like water being transformed into tions, but it is not primarily a political issue. It is a wine, we are all, all of us, windows into the glory of religious issue, a theological issue. Human beings God. That’s what we mean when we say that human are precious, unique, unrepeatable icons of God. We beings are created in God’s image. That’s what we stand with God and for God’s values when we stand mean when we say that the Word became flesh and with and for the human beings who bear God’s glory dwelt among us. What Jesus reveals to us is that we into the world. And one of the ways we stand with are each particular incarnations, enfleshments of and for them is to proclaim their dignity and worth the divine. And so one thing today’s Gospel leads and oppose all forces that threaten or oppress them. me to understand is the way in which every abuse or And right now one of the chief oppressive threats to terrorization or threat or assault on a human being is human dignity in our world is the obscene prolifera- also an attack on God. tion of guns in America. If we want to stand with We Christians follow someone who incarnated God Jesus and with Martin Luther King, we’ve also got perfectly on earth. We follow that same one who to stand with those who, like them, die by means of died at human hands by means of violence. The violence. And that means we who follow Jesus and first thing I get as a preacher occupying Dr. King’s stand with King have to stand against guns. That pulpit space on this Sunday is the link between Jesus may sound like a hard truth, but for a Christian, and Dr. King and Newtown and you and me. Jesus there’s no way around it. was precious and he died because of violence. Dr. We at Washington National Cathedral have come to King was precious and he died because of violence. the end of the first part of our work, the preaching The first graders and their teachers at Sandy Hook part. Now we are entering the next phase of our Elementary School were precious and they died work, the organizing. As the National Cathedral, we because of violence. The urban kids who shoot each are a visible faith community in a symbolic building. other on our streets are precious and they die by We have a unique role in American religious life. means of violence. You and I are precious, too, and We represent what is best in American civic life—we we have the opportunity to resist violence, to stand stand at the intersection of faithful and civic values. with its victims and say “No more,” to call others

The point is that the glory that Jesus reveals in himself is God’s glory, and the big truth on offer here is that not only Jesus but all God’s precious human creatures similarly reflect and reveal that divine glory.

34 cathedral age Like water being transformed into wine, we are all, all of us, windows into the glory of God . . . . We stand with God and for God’s values when we stand with and for the human beings who bear God’s glory into the world.

It is vital that we use our visibility and our symbolic and vice president. The day after tomorrow the role to keep the need for gun control squarely in the Cathedral will host the 57th Inaugural Prayer public eye. As the leader of this wonderful place, I Service. As President Obama begins his second commit myself to that work and ask you to join me as term, I can think of no better way for this Cathedral the legislative process moves forward. We can make to support him in this work than to rea≈rm our Washington National Cathedral a visible focus of commitment to Dr. King’s vision of an America our shared commitment and so help end our national characterized by justice, equality, and peace. Amen. tragic scourge of gun violence. —the very rev. gary hall, january 20, 2013 Tomorrow is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. It is also the day on which we inaugurate the president

Explore more spiritual insights in our online archive, featuring on-demand sermons from Cathedral clergy and guest preachers as well as full-length video of services at www.nationalcathedral.org.

easter 2013 turning the pages of cathedral age

p a ssages…

“A Most Successful Flower Mart” This May marks the seventy-fourth annual Flower Mart, made possible by the passionate volunteer efforts of All Hallows Guild. Traditionally a festival dedicated to the cultures of different countries around the world, this year’s theme, “America the Beautiful,” is a celebration of our United States—only the fourth time the festival has been dedicated to all things Americana. Flower Mart 1963—fifty years ago—was deemed “most successful” in the summer 1963 issue of Cathedral Age. The above photo appeared with the following report. above and left The imaginative, hard-working ribbon opening the “Country Fair the flower mart members of this year’s Flower of the 1850’s” [sic]. Including the opening ceremony food booths, there were 35 booths ribbon cutting, Mart were rewarded on Friday, as depicted in May 3, with a perfect day—the in all—15 sponsored by local cathedral age, garden clubs. summer 1963, weather was ideal, sunny with a page 17 clear blue sky, and the profit set a Mrs. Frank E. Klapthor, assistant new record. curator for the Smithsonian Mrs. Orville L. Freeman, wife Institute, judged the booths as of the secretary of agriculture, to authenticity. Grand prize was (in the photo with Dean Sayre, awarded by Mrs. Freeman to the a youngster from one of the Kenwood Garden Club. Their colorful booths, and Mrs. booth was a Yankee Peddler’s Cart, Robinson de Sibour) cut the the result of considerable research.

36 cathedral age a c

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B The Peace Cross at the Cathedral Store This handcrafted cross with carved knotwork patterns was inspired by the of Peace Peace Cross on Mount St. Alban. From the Cynthia Gale Collection, each sterling silver cross is enriched by accents of 18kt gold. 1.5" in height on a 17" chain. $299.99 C “I Have a Dream” Helix Pendant Sterling silver helix pendant engraved with a quotation from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 18" sterling silver chain with secure clasp; 2" long pendant. A contemporary design with timeless words. $69.99 D Prayers for Hope and Comfort: Reflections, Meditations, and Inspirations by Maggie Oman Shannon Draws on wisdom from every era to offer d e f readers solace, comfort, and hope. $15.95 E How to be a Perfect Stranger: The A percentage of your purchase supports the Cathedral’s Essential Religious Etiquette Handbook mission as a spiritual home for the nation. The Cathedral edited by Stuart M. Matlins and Arthur J. Magida Store offers a wide range of Cathedral-inspired items, This award-winning “Best Reference books, and special gift products. Book of the Year” helps answer practical etiquette questions regarding faiths Shop online, order by phone, or stop in on your next visit. different from your own. $19.99 F Coexist Mug SHOP ONLINE ORDER BY PHONE Along with the Cathedral’s logo, the shop.cathedral.org (202) 537-6267 Coexist mug shows the Islamic star and crescent, a peace sign, the Jewish Star of We accept all major credit cards. David, and the Christian cross. $12.99 gun violence in america reflect, unite, act get involved today! Faith is a powerful force in the gun debate. The National Cathedral will continue to advocate for the safety and well-being of all Americans in a vision for a future free from gun violence. Join us today by using these resources. online dvds toolkit Panel discussions on Order the 3-dvd set of Practical suggestions and faith-inspired action are the entire Gun Violence actions for individuals, available on-demand with Prevention Sabbath groups, and chuches to viewing guides and thought- Weekend (March 14–17, make a difference. provoking questions. 2013), including a special dvd designed for small group and church use with moderator’s guide and discussion questions. $29.99.

Visit www.nationalcathedral.org/ gunviolence to learn more.

above bishop mariann edgar budde with panelists arthur kellerman, r.t. rybak, and patrick burke at the march 14 discussion photo d. marks

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