Join us on Thursday 25 November 10am, 2011

Dear Friend and Neighbor:

The Holy Trinity Cathedral on North Street is an architectural and artistic marvel, and a historical and cultural treasure. Originally built in 1911, the Cathedral has, for the past four years, been undergoing a massive restoration process. The main feature of this restoration has been uncovering the stunning frescoes (artwork/murals) that had been covered over by grey paint since 1970. The restoration work also encompasses repairing the organ, one of the largest in the region, fixing the stained glass windows which have been in disrepair since Hurricane Charlie in 1951, refurbishing the termite-infested pews which date back to 1911, installing a new PA system, and rectifying the structural damage to the dome of the building.

As we get closer to the completion of this project, we are committed to keeping the community surrounding the Cathedral connected to this project. We envision utilizing the Cathedral as a catalyst for community development, building on the goodwill and interest developed over the past four years.

It is that aim in mind, why we are inviting you to a dialogue and visioning meeting at the Cathedral, on Thursday, November 25^th, at 10am. The agenda is simple, come and see the space, meet us and let us dream together of the possibilities for this space and this community.

This first round of meetings is targeted especially at members of the arts and cultural Community. We feel an engagement with your community is natural, and builds upon the raison d’être, for the past four years, the restoration of the beautiful artwork. We have observed how inspired the congregants, the community workers and all the visitors to the Cathedral have been by the sheer beauty of the space.

We should note that the restoration work has seen the training and involvement of 34 young people from the neighbouring community, and has been a source of economic and spiritual upliftment for the youth of the area. Those who participated received HEART NTA certification.

Once the restoration is complete, we envision the Cathedral becoming a landmark location for visitors to Kingston, whether from home or abroad. As the site develops and fulfills its potential as a central attraction in the city, it will have a beneficial impact on the neighbouring community, providing opportunities for complementary economic activities. Furthermore, the upliftment of the site and the community are in tandem with the overall revitalization of downtown Kingston.

We look forward to engaging you on this exciting and wonderful project.

May the Lord continue to bless your operations with success.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Msgr. Kenneth D. Richards

Vicar General