The Latest Cathedral News Author: The Very Rev. Dominic Barrington

Special Dean's Forum: Jerusalem and the Holy Land

May 21, 2021

“I went on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what would happen to me there….”

 

In Paul’s great farewell speech to the people of Ephesus in Acts 20 he speaks of an imminent journey to Jerusalem that he will undertake not knowing the fate that awaits him. When I set out to go to Jerusalem the weekend before last, I had no idea what was about to happen, and I have returned to Chicago having had a number of challenging and remarkable experiences that were unexpected. 

Throughout my time away, I was deeply conscious of the prayerful concern of so many people from St James, both for me, and for the peoples of the Holy Land. I invite you to join me at 10am this Sunday for a special Dean’s Forum in which I will share some details of my encounters, thoughts and experiences, and attempt to offer a lens through which it might be helpful to view the current tragic events there.
 
The Forum will be held live in Kyle’s Place, and will also be available on Zoom - details of how to log on will be in the regular Sunday morning email.
Author: The Very Rev. Dominic Barrington

Our 2021 Lenten Appeal Charity

February 16, 2021

You will, I am sure, be aware of the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and I am delighted that your Chapter have designated the Cathedral Counseling Center as this year’s Lenten charity. Many of you will know that the reason this organization is named ‘Cathedral’ is that it was created by St James in 1974, and for a number of years operated out of the cathedral as part of our own ministry. For a long time it has been an independent body based in the Loop, but continues to be faithful to its original mission to offer psychotherapy of the highest quality on a sliding fee scale basis.
 
In the five and a half years I have served St. James as Dean, my colleagues and I have referred a considerable number of people to Cathedral Counseling, and have done so in utter confidence of them receiving expert clinical support, irrespective of their financial/insurance situation. At a time of such increased anxiety across the face of the world, supporting Cathedral Counseling feels a deeply relevant and important outreach opportunity for us, and I hope you will use this Lent as a time to display the generosity that is so characteristic of the St. James community.
 
As we journey through what I hope are the final stages of the pandemic, may this Lent be a blessing and a true gift from God for you.
 
Your priest and friend,
Dominic Barrington
Dean of the Cathedral
Author: The Very Rev. Dominic Barrington

Our 2020 Christmas Offering for La Creche

December 18, 2020

God chose to share fully in the life of the world, born as a humble and impoverished baby. From lowly beginnings, Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ and Messiah, missed no opportunity to show the world God’s love for all people... most notably the poor, the vulnerable, the outcast, and those in need. It is fitting, therefore, that as we celebrate Christmas at St James Cathedral, we will make a gift to support disadvantaged children in the Bethlehem of today.

La Creche provides a loving and secure home for about forty children. The sisters, staff, and volunteers (including doctors and social workers) offer educational, domestic, and psychological support. The stories around many of these young children are often heart-breaking, and the love provided by the staff is inspiring.

As we honor the birth of a baby to unwed parents who desperately sought a roof over their heads, in response to this carol service, please support the work of La Creche both prayerfully and financially. Contributions are accepted online or by text. Send "SJC Creche" to 73256 to give using your mobile device starting at the Lessons & Carols Service on Sunday, December 20 until the end of our Christmas Eve services on December 24. 

Author: The Very Rev. Dominic Barrington
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