Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On September 7, 2011, with great joy I announced that our Diocese will build a new Cathedral Campus to accommodate its continued growth and help meet the needs of Catholics throughout eastern North Carolina. As the ‘Mother Church’ of the 96 parishes and missions which encompass our diverse, rapidly growing population in the Diocese of Raleigh, the Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral will stand as a testament to our love of God.

Its classical, timeless design offers a permanent and tangible way to glorify our heavenly Father as we announce the Gospel of the Lord. The Cathedral itself will accommodate approximately 2,000 worshipers to be enlightened by God’s word, nourished with the Eucharist and strengthened as the Body of Christ.

As site of the Bishop’s chair, or cathedra, Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral will be the focal point of religious activity for the 54 eastern North Carolina counties that make up our Diocese. The Cathedral Campus will meet our needs by providing adequate space for a parking deck and a gathering hall for major liturgical events, concerts in sacred music, Catholic lecture series and a place of pilgrimage. The possibilities to share our Faith are endless.

Join me as we humbly pray for God’s guidance and the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary under the title of Immaculate Conception, patroness of our Diocese, so that we may continue bringing the good news of the Gospel to the over 400,000 Catholics in the Diocese of Raleigh.

We embark upon this effort as steadfast followers of Our Lord Jesus so that we may give all glory, honor and praise to His Holy Name.

Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge
Bishop of Raleigh

For more information about our Diocese, please visit our website at www.dioceseofraleigh.org