Episcopal Press and News
WESTERN MICHIGAN: Kalamazoo Cathedral to be sold
Episcopal News Service. March 12, 2007 [031207-04]
The Cathedral of Christ the King and its surrounding property in the Kalamazoo, Michigan suburb of Portage will be sold, according to the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan.
The action follows a feasibility study commissioned by the diocese and a 2005 diocesan convention resolution requiring the development of a viable financial plan. The study determined that a $3.4 million campaign to fund an expanded vision and ministry for the Cathedral would not be feasible, and members of the diocesan Executive Council agreed that there is no viable financial plan for the cathedral.
Members of the diocese do not see the cathedral as a diocesan or parish asset, preferring to contribute their resources to support their own individual parishes.
Those interviewed for the study saw many other diocesan-wide issues, including a high number of congregations without permanent clergy, church development and outreach ministries as higher priorities than the cathedral. They expressed concern regarding the cemetery, known as Resurrection Garden, on the west side of the cathedral property, and the necessity of developing a sensitive plan for its future.
''This is a sad day for the Cathedral,'' said the Very Rev. Cynthia L. Black, dean of the cathedral and rector of the Parish Church of Christ the King, the congregation that worships at the cathedral. ''However, the parish will continue to do what it has always done—be a diverse community that practices compassion and welcomes all—just from a different location.''
The cathedral sits on 30 acres adjacent to Interstate 94. It is a landmark in southwestern Michigan, and throughout its history has served the community through concerts, art exhibits and other activities, including three labyrinths. Some 100,000 vehicles per day pass the castle-like structure, designed by Irving Colburn of Chicago. It houses a nationally known Aeolian-Skinner organ and a 47-bell carillon.
Until recently the cathedral housed the offices of Bishop Robert R. Gepert, which were relocated to an office complex in Portage. The cathedral continues to house the offices of the parish.
The diocese covers the western half of Michigan's lower peninsula, stretching from the Indiana state line north to Petoskey, and includes some 60 parishes.