Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle- Washington

“The prayer of the poor rises up to God.” (Sirach 21:5)

The theme of the 9th World Day of the Poor celebrated on November 16th is “You, O Lord, are my hope” (Ps 71:5). In his message reflecting on this theme, Pope Leo XIV writes,

"Hope, sustained by God's love poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (cf. Rom 5:5), turns human hearts into fertile soil where charity for the life of the world can blossom. The Church's tradition has constantly insisted on the circular relationship between the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. Hope is born of faith, which nourishes and sustains it on the foundation of charity, the mother of all virtues. All of us need charity, here and now. Charity is not just a promise; it is a present reality to be embraced with joy and responsibility."

The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle, located in the central business district of Washington, DC, is a place of refuge for so many suffering spiritual or corporal impoverishment. Here we share thoughts of some of the people who serve their fellow parishioners, visitors, and neighbors in the downtown DC community. We hope you see what they see - a place worthy and wanting of your support.

These days are times of truly unprecedented challenge and financial need for the cathedral parish. Please consider supporting our mission here in our Nation's Capital with a donation. God bless you and yours. You are always welcome at St. Matthew's.

—Rev. Msgr. W. Ronald Jameson, Cathedral Rector

Serving others, experiencing joy and satisfaction

"The St. Matthew's Social Justice and Community Service ministries provide dignity and services to those in need of it, and allow a safe gathering point for community members during times that have otherwise drug people apart ... ." - Channing

"I found great joy in being able to share God's blessings. I found joy in being of service to others." - Roselyn

"I have a great deal of satisfaction in seeing the results of my efforts. The child baptized and brought into the body of Christ and the Mass on YouTube are just immediate examples. Above and beyond that is the personal joy and feeling of accomplishment that I receive. " - Jerry

"Nosotros participamos ayudando con los niños que se acaban de confirmar. Me encanta esos momentos en que se ve que están aprendiendo algo nuevo. ... sele ve us ojos abrir al entender un poco más lo que es vivir las cosas que aprendieron en su formación. Participo junto a mi esposa y entendemos también que compartir en el sacramento de matrimonio es una oportunidad que Dios nos provee para mostrar el amor que tiene por su pueblo."

translated:

"We participate by helping the recently-confirmed children. I love those moments when they learn something new. ... one can see their eyes open up as they understand a little more what it is to live the things they learn during their formation. I participate along with my wife, and we understand also that to share in the sacrament of marriage is an opportunity that God gives us to show the love he has for his people. - Miguel

"I view the role of the schola and cantors as enhancing the prayerfulness of each service in addition to helping the community participate more fully in each service .... I have most enjoyed helping expose parishioners and guests to the vast variety of church music that they may not have an opportunity to hear on a regular basis - particularly Gregorian chant and early choral music. The schola [members are] ... truly respectful of the Liturgy and how music can enhance it and encourage full participation." - Julianne

Encouraging service, planting seeds

"I have shared my volunteer work with friends. A friend has now also volunteered in the feeding program in her parish. My nephew has also volunteered during his school break and found the experience fulfilling. My friends sometimes help me prepare the food that I serve [at Monday morning ministry]. I think it is more like planting the seeds of possibility for service to others despite everyone's busy schedules. It is possible. It can be done. - Roselyn

"The [Monday morning] ministry has also provided an opportunity for my daughters' American Heritage Girls troop to learn about service to others. They enjoyed preparing bags of trail mix for the ministry [guests] and we hope to do more in the future." - Julianne