Grace Cathedral, on Nob Hill in San Francisco, is a structure that almost seems out of place in a country as young as ours. It is the third largest Episcopal cathedral in the nation. It’s European architecture, vast interior space and storied stained glass windows combine to create a breathtakingly beautiful setting. Debby and I have enjoyed walking the labyrinths there with family and friends. I appreciate the sensitivity of the Interfaith AIDS Memorial Chapel in the cathedral, providing a place of comfort for many.
The pledge of Grace Cathedral to all who “are passing by” particularly encourages and inspires me. I’m sure I don’t agree with every doctrinal position or scriptural stance of the people who gather to worship there. That’s not all that surprising. I disagree today with some of my own beliefs from yesterday. And don’t get me started about your peculiar perspectives.
Here are some of the words you read as you enter Grace Cathedral:
A place of religious immunity
If you are passing by and feel intimidated or angry because of religion, please know that there is immunity granted when you enter Grace Cathedral. Immunity from the ravages of religion and misuse of divine revelation…Immunity from religious control is granted you upon entry. Grace offers “sanctuary” to everyone and promises this glorious freedom of God as the climate to explore the healthiest living that religion affords.
A place of anonymity
If you are passing by and feel hesitant to join the ranks of a particular denomination or to buy into the creeds of millions, please know that most people who enter Grace every week are practicing no regular religious discipline. The rule of Grace is the stranger making himself/herself at home…Perhaps you quietly dropped by wanting to reconnect in your relationship to God. Or to confess shame. Or to surrender a burden. Or to pray for a loved one. Or to bask in the beauty of holiness. Or to meditate on a hard personal dilemma. Or to find a moment of peace.
A place of unity
If you are passing by and feel that life is fragmenting into a vast number of irreconcilable, shattered pieces, then please know that Grace holds an outrageous hope that, in God alone, all aspects of life are in unity…In the midst of what appears to be an ever-increasing fragmentation of life, Grace offers a “House of Prayer for All People”, an abiding hope that there is a Oneness at the center of life.
Oh, that these words might be true for all of God’s people all over God’s world.
May we always be a space where grace is in place.
Dennis Lynn
