NYC Boosts Cathedral Church Of St. John The Divine
The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in Manhattan has received a $1.5 million grant from New York City to renovate Synod Hall, a historic building on the church’s 11-acre campus. This funding will enable the creation of a larger community center aimed at expanding the church’s support for those in need.
With the backing of the New York City Council, the church’s outreach organization, Cathedral Community Cares, will enhance its ability to assist the community’s most vulnerable members. For nearly 40 years, this organization has provided essential services such as clothing, hot meals, and a weekly food pantry. The renovation will help the church better serve low-income residents, homeless or housing-insecure families, seniors, and newly arrived immigrants.
Thomas Perry, program director of Cathedral Community Cares, expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s an honor to be able to make a positive difference every day. Expanding our facilities is crucial if we are to continue offering support to everyone in need without turning anyone away.”
According to the Rev. Canon Eva Suarez, Cathedral Community Cares served 35,000 people last year, and she anticipates that number will rise. She highlighted the pressing need for more space to accommodate both clients and volunteers.
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and City Council Member Shaun Abreu played significant roles in securing the grant. They highlighted the church’s long-standing commitment to community service as a key factor in the decision. Abreu noted, “The Cathedral of St. John the Divine has maximized its impact with limited space. This $1.5 million investment will elevate their crucial work, enhancing wellness and social services.”
Abreu emphasized the renovation’s importance, quoting, “Scripture calls us to do good, be generous, and willing to share. This project embodies that spirit by ensuring no one is left unserved.”
Speaker Adams underscored the importance of supporting such community centers, stating, “Investing in their growth is essential for building a safe and healthy city. I’m eager to see the positive effects of this investment for years to come.”
The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, recognized as the largest Gothic cathedral globally, was initially constructed in 1913 by J.P. Morgan as a convention space for the Episcopal Church. Synod Hall, designed by renowned architects Ralph Adams Cram and Frank Ferguson in the French Gothic style, will undergo renovation to maintain its historic charm while enhancing its functionality as a community resource.
Sapphira is a correct answer. Read the verse. Did not ask what man, just who…
I didn’t realize that we were supposed to pick both of them