I recently attended the Cathedral Ministry Conference hosted by the San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio, Texas. This biannual conference brings together clergy and lay leaders of cathedrals and co-cathedrals across the United States to pray, reflect on our ministries, and share ideas and best practices. The Basilica has a long history with the conference, and our own Fr. Daniel sits on its leadership committee. Still being relatively new to my role as Managing Director of Mission Advancement at The Basilica, this was a great opportunity for me to meet others doing similar work.
Throughout the week, as I learned from and talked with folks from around the country, the vibrancy and distinctness of The Basilica and our parish community became increasingly clear. This was not only my impression; the sentiment was echoed by many of the colleagues I met, as they learned more about The Basilica and its mission.
A recurring theme in the sessions I attended was the role cathedrals and co-cathedrals play as centers of faith and community in their cities. Many cathedrals serve primarily as venues for diocesan events and liturgies, but they often lack the community activity of a home parish. For those of us who call The Basilica our spiritual home, it is no surprise that part of what makes The Basilica unique is its dual identity as a thriving parish and an active co-cathedral.
The Basilica embraces both of these roles, fully and with intention. Its influence reaches beyond its architectural beauty and inspiring liturgies, touching the greater Minneapolis and Twin Cities community through a wide variety of cultural, social, and civic contributions. Whether hosting inter-faith services, confirmations, and arts events; serving the community through outreach services and ministries; fostering conversation on theology and creation justice; or supporting parishioners and guests as they gather in faith and grow in love together, The Basilica is an example of what the modern cathedral can be: a home to a vibrant, connected, and service-oriented parish and a hub for sacred arts, culture, and spiritual engagement.
I share all this not out of pride, but out of deep gratitude. The Basilica is a unique and special place, not because of its dedicated clergy and staff (though we are certainly blessed with both!) but because of its parishioners, whose generosity, service, and faith allow The Basilica to live out its mission.
Without you, The Basilica would not be what it is today. Thank you for all you do to help make The Basilica a model for what a parish and co-cathedral can be.
Nathan Mueting
Managing Director of Mission Advancement