Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle- Washington

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

The theme of the 8th World Day of the Poor celebrated on November 17th is “The prayer of the poor rises up to God.” In his homily during the Mass for the World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis calls on us to recognize God’s presence in the suffering of the poor and to act with hope and compassion in the face of injustice.

Pope Francis says, “Indeed, Christian hope embraces the certainty that our prayer reaches God’s presence, not just any prayer but rather the prayer of the poor! Let us reflect on this word and “read” it on the faces and in the stories of the poor whom we encounter daily, so that prayer can become a path of communion with them and a sharing in their suffering.”

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

"The Baptism ministry has benefited St. Matthew's and the Church in that infants and children are cleansed of original sin and become members of the body of Christ. It is a joyous celebration that all of us can appreciate. Streaming the mass is of benefit to the parishioners who are homebound and my reading at mass hopefully can be heard by all the attendees." - Jerry

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