"Arise and build the sanctuary of the Lord God..." (1 Chr. 22:19)

As you may have read in the history, our church building has been in use ever since its 1910 consecration as a sacred place (see the first photo to the left taken about 1925). While there have been a few changes in the overall look and design of the building and its interior (such as after Vatican II—see the second photo to the left taken in 2015), the reality is that our Alaskan weather does take its toll—and we are now faced with needing to do some major improvements to it, most notably to the foundation. Plus there is also the reality that we don't currently meet the standards of the Federal ADA laws—and we do have a population for which updating our building to meet their needs has become a priority (such as revamping the entrance to the building so it's at street level and also replacing the many stairs currently needed to get to the second-floor nave with an elevator that can accommodate any parishioner or visitor who might need that assistance).

We had a local architectural firm draw up several possible building designs, one of which was selected by the church community (see the drawing at the top of this page) at an informational meeting and then approved by our bishop. However, he put a stipulation on the project that we must raise and have in hand at least 75% of the estimated cost—a sum that at this time is approximately $2.5 million—before beginning the renovation. Most of that (as stated in the stipulation) cannot be provided by getting a bank loan. Thus we must depend on the charity of our parishioners as well as the community at large (no matter where they may reside) for that amount. Happily, thanks to the generous commitment of our parishioners along with our visitors who've chosen to become donars, we are close to half-way there.

We have a long-standing heritage (as the history of our building describes), one that we as a parish are proud of. We hope that any of you reading this will feel moved to make a contribution or even a pledge (that can be spread over several weeks or months to make it easier on your budget). If you feel encouraged by the Holy Spirit to make a donation or a pledge, please click the Support & Donations link at the top left. Then sign in (or create an account if you are a first-time contributor) and select Cathedral Building Fund (to make a one-time donation) or Pledge Cathedral Renovation (to spread your payment over time).

We have placed this project in God's hands (and that of the various committees that are working to see it through) as we continue to strive to maintain our strong faith presence that shines, as our mission statement declares, like "the beacon on the hill" here in Juneau.