The Very Reverend Gary Hall, Dean Of Washington National Cathedral
Last October, the Very Reverend Gary Hall became the 10th dean of Washington National Cathedral. Having led Episcopal dioceses in Massachusetts, California and Michigan before coming to D.C., Hall demonstrated early on that he's willing to make waves. He is an outspoken advocate for gun control and announced that same-sex marriages will be held at the cathedral. Kojo talks with Hall about his reputation as a fixer and his plans for the nation's landmark church.
Guests
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Photos: Updated Look At National Cathedral Earthquake Repairs
Renovation efforts continue at Washington National Cathedral, and are expected to continue for years to come, after a 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck the East Coast in August 2011 and damaged the landmark. Officials estimate initial repairs will cost $15 million and take at least 10 years to complete. Some decorative elements will be re-carved, some will be replaced, and all will be strengthened for long term preservation. The base of the cathedral oscillated slightly during the 40-second quake, and protective netting now engulfs the main level’s ceiling. But the bulk of damage affected the 300-foot bell tower, situated at the center of the church and also the highest point in Washington, D.C.
Learn more about the earthquake repairs, find answers to frequently asked questions and contribute to the restoration fund.
Comments
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Although I understand the need to connect the dots for some people regarding egregious situations in our culture that are against the teachings of Christ, such as slavery, domestic violence, etc. where many who were involved in these activities who believed they were righteous Christians, I am concerned that a place for teaching and praying about one's personal connection with Christ and the holy spirit is being turned into nothing more than another leftist political organization, much like the hijacking of the Unitarian Church.
It has been written that many traditional churches have been hijacked by leftist agitators who are not truly Christian or spiritual, but only went into the ministry during the Vietnam war as a way to avoid the draft, and stayed when they realized they had a cushy position with lots of benefits and housing, a position of authority to spread their political ideologues. After hearing "Father Gary" you speak today, I have to wonder if this is not indeed the case here. Over forrty minutes of discussion, and nothing about the spirit, nor about an individual's connection to spirit and letting that holy spirit to direct them to the right life and personal convictions. Instead, I have heard nothing but discussion of leftist political activism, which will no doubt alienate many members of the church who do not want your particular leftist agenda shoved down their throats during sermons.
Although I have many "progressive" beliefs, I don't need to go to church for it, there are plenty of social political groups to involve oneself out of church.
Isabella O.
Easton MD
There have been numerous reports about the recent survey of Americans and religion and the high percentage of people that report themselves as “unaffiliated.” This is a significant indication that many religious institutions are seen as being irrelevant in 21st century society. Much of the irrelevance comes from the fact that many religious institutions do take “political” stands by proof-texting selected portions of the Bible as a basis for their actions. Dean Hall has a firm grasp on the needs of his congregation, his church, and the nation, and he is working to restore the relevance of faith along with spiritual and religious commitment. He clearly has the “big picture” of the multi-faceted mission of the Cathedral and the Church in general. Dean Hall made reference to Mariann Edgar Budde, the current Bishop of Washington. Prior to her consecration she explained the need for a more widely-defined mission within the Diocese and the Church to give the Church relevance in the world and to live out the faith that we espouse. Dean Hall is bringing Bishop Budde’s mission to the National Cathedral, and he is allowing the Cathedral to be a beacon of relevance to those that might see contemporary religion as irrelevant.
Donald S.
Silver Spring, MD
If we are all equal before God, then surely we must all be equal in the general society and in the Church as well. Faith without works is a dead faith. One of the hallmarks of the Episcopal Church, and indeed of Christianity, is the requirement to live out one's faith in action. In this case, the Episcopal Church is simply according LGBT persons the dignity and respect due all humanity.