Work planned on Episcopal cathedral
From its South Hill perch overlooking downtown, the Episcopal Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist remains one of the dominant structures that grace the Spokane skyline.
If enough money is raised, this city landmark – considered one of the country’s finest examples of classic Gothic architecture – will soon undergo major renovations inside.
For the first time in more than 25 years, the cathedral launched a major capital fundraiser this week: a three-year, $2.5 million campaign to restore and update the historic building.
While the appeal is aimed at the roughly 500 members who attend weekly services at the cathedral, others in the community will likely contribute to the major appeal.
Besides being the home of a parish congregation, St. John’s is the official seat of the bishop and the center of the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane, a district comprising 42 congregations throughout Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Located at 12th Avenue and Grand Boulevard, the cathedral is also the site of numerous concerts and public gatherings, and a draw for thousands of tourists each year.
“The cathedral is a community building,” said Stan Fergin, who joined the parish 56 years ago. “It’s a house of worship for all people.”
Like other longtime members, Fergin, 78, has a strong attachment to St. John’s. It was where he and his wife, Jody, were married in 1950; where his two children sang in the choir and attended Sunday school; where he continues to find friendship and spiritual nourishment.
Even after worshipping there for many years, he and others remain in awe of the cathedral’s grandeur – its interior carvings in stone and wood, the stained glass windows, the peal of the 49 cast bells up in Cross Tower.
“Every stone, window, carving – every tangible thing you see here – is a testament to God’s love acting in someone’s life, offered in thanksgiving to inspire others,” according to the cathedral’s Web site.
As chairman of the capital campaign, Fergin wants to ensure the building’s future so that other families and individuals will have a spiritual home, he said. “We hope to make a legacy for the future,” said the retired engineer and former senior warden for the parish.
Before launching the capital campaign known as “Renewing Our Vision: A Cathedral for the New Century,” Fergin and other cathedral members, along with clergy and diocesan leaders, spent months assessing the building’s needs. They found that the cathedral had to make some major changes – “badly needed renovations,” in Fergin’s words – to continue its numerous ministries.
According to campaign brochures, the $2.5 million will be used for the following projects:
•Renovation of the crypt, an area used for young adult ministry as well as a rehearsal space for the music department.
•Addition of elevators and ramps.
•Expansion of nursery and child-care center that’s closer to the worship space.
•Improvements to the bookstore, library, reception area and other office space.
Organizers hope donors will make their pledges by the end of May. If they raise enough money by then, construction could start as early as year’s end, Fergin said.
St. John’s Cathedral was designed by renowned architect Harold C. Whitehouse, who was also a member of the congregation. Construction began in 1925 and continued through 1954, when the tower, transepts, choir and sanctuary were completed. Other additions were made, including the installation of the Aeolian-Skinner organ in 1960 and the carillon in 1969.