A Journey Through Time
In the heart of Loganville, Georgia, stands a beacon of faith and community – the Holy Cross Cathedral. With its rich history and unwavering commitment to guiding its congregation in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, this evangelical Anglican church has been the cornerstone of the Anglican Diocese of the South for nearly two decades.
The roots of Holy Cross Cathedral stretch back to February 2004, a pivotal moment in the religious landscape of Loganville and beyond. Then, Foley Beach, a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, boldly decided to depart from the Episcopal Church.
This decision was in response to the consecration of Gene Robinson as bishop of New Hampshire, a move that sparked significant controversy within the church.
Holy Cross was not just a new beginning for Beach; it symbolized a realignment and rejuvenation of faith for many others. The congregation dedicated its building in Loganville in late 2005.
What started as a single act of faith soon blossomed into a thriving community, and in 2015, the church was designated as the diocese’s cathedral and rebranded as Holy Cross Cathedral.
Guided by Strong Leadership
Leadership is the backbone of any institution, and Holy Cross Cathedral is no exception. The Most Reverend Dr. Foley Beach, the founding father of the Holy Cross, serves as the Bishop of the Diocese and the Archbishop of the Anglican Church in North America. His guidance has been instrumental in the cathedral’s and its congregation’s growth and development.
The Very Reverend Michael Guernsey, the Dean of Holy Cross Cathedral, joins him at the helm. His leadership has been vital in maintaining the vibrancy and dynamism of the church. Together, Beach and Guernsey have steered the cathedral through periods of change and growth, ensuring it remains a beacon of faith in the community.
Worship, Services, and the Act of Togetherness
At Holy Cross Cathedral, worship is a communal act. The cathedral offers traditional worship services on Sundays at 9 am, contemporary worship services on Sundays at 11:15 am, and Morning Prayer on Tuesdays at 9 am.
Each service is designed to foster a sense of community among the congregation. This shared worship experience is made even more profound through The Book of Common Prayer. This time-tested liturgical guide facilitates corporate singing, prayer, confession of sins, and communion.
Taking communion is a significant ritual at Holy Cross, symbolizing unity and shared faith. If you are a baptized and believing Christian, you are welcome to partake in this sacred tradition. Whether through traditional or contemporary services, each worship session is marked by reverence, unity, and a shared commitment to faith.
A Melting Pot of Cultures and Programs
Holy Cross Cathedral is not just a place of worship but a melting pot of cultures. The cathedral boasts a diverse congregation with members from as many as 23 nationalities. This cultural diversity enriches the experience of being part of the Holy Cross community, making it an accurate representation of the universal church.
Beyond its regular worship services, the cathedral hosts diocesan offices and significant events such as synods and diaconal ordinations. It also features an on-site columbarium for interments in its chapel, a quiet place of remembrance and reflection for those who have loved and lost.
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Wrapping Up the Journey
Stepping into Holy Cross Cathedral is like walking into a tapestry of faith, woven together by threads of history, leadership, worship, and community. Over the years, it has evolved into more than just a cathedral—it’s a spiritual home for many, a pillar of the Anglican Diocese of the South, and a symbol of the wider Anglican Church in North America.
In every brick and beam, every hymn sung, every prayer uttered, and every communion shared, the Holy Cross Cathedral embodies the unwavering spirit of its congregation. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith, the warmth of community, and the profound comfort of a shared spiritual journey.
Whether you’re a long-time resident of Loganville, a newcomer, or someone who’s walked the halls of Holy Cross Cathedral in the past, the cathedral’s story is likely to resonate. It’s a tale of faith, community, and resilience—a testament to the power of belief and the strength of a community united by shared spiritual values.
So, the next time you find yourself in Loganville, Georgia, take a moment to visit Holy Cross Cathedral. Walk its halls, attend a service, or sit in quiet contemplation. Experience the spirit of unity that fills the air, and feel the echoes of a history that’s as rich as it is inspiring.