I’d like to volunteer more, but I really don’t have that much time… any suggestions? 
This is easily the most common apology given and it’s just another aspect of life in our times… we’re all trying very hard to manage time well, and it’s not easy!  What you might think of doing is committing to a particular “project” that occurs only occasionally… like the Fall Festival (October), stuffing envelopes for mailings (3-4 times per year), set-up/take-down for Easter overflow Masses, decorating the church at Christmas or Easter.  Another area for consideration… since we’re going to be attending Mass anyway – think about serving as a “greeter” (always in need) or an usher (also always in need)… or take part in the Sunday Fellowship once every couple of months.

Why is Safe Environment Training necessary?
Safe Environment Training (SET) is a requirement of any person (clergy, religious, employees, and volunteers from among the ordinary faithful) engaged in public work or service in the life of the Church.  This really is an extension of a much wider societal awareness that “times have changed”!  SET is intended to reinforce a good and appropriate sense of boundaries for those engaged in ministry… to develop caution and proficiency in ministry, particularly in service to our young people… and simply to make us all more aware of how important it is to be well-trained and conscious of the seriousness with which we carry out service in the Lord’s Name.

I like to sing in a choir… but I was told I would have to audition… why is this?
Actually, it’s a prudent measure for anyone volunteering… in fact, in most ministries at the Cathedral, some form of “interview” or informative session takes place prior to engaging someone in volunteer service.  Participating in any ministry is never a “right”… rather it is the call of the Church herself!  Simply because we may enjoy a particular outlet doesn’t mean that it’s a “selfless service” on our part.  Besides, anything we do for the Lord, we should want to put our very best into it… and that’s principally why our Music Ministry calls for some form of audition to determine one’s suitability for public participation.

I was baptized a Catholic, but never raised as such… but I’m interested in becoming more active… what do I do?
Being Catholic is the greatest adventure this side of eternity… welcome! The process of what’s called “catechesis” is all about learning Catholic teaching and practice, sharing experiences with others in the same situation, and above all, developing a relationship with the Lord Himself in prayer and devotion. This takes some time and guidance… and that is what the “RCIA” is all about – Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. Contact ___ for further details, or you may wish to speak to a priest first.

Details for Holy Communion to homebound is found also in the “General Info” section

I’m not well-off and I need some help acquiring food… where can I turn?
Our St. Vincent de Paul Society operates a food pantry from which it is possible to get food staples (bread, cereals, canned goods, etc).  The Cathedral always makes sure that those in need of food are assisted in every instance.

I’m about to be evicted from my apartment…  I can’t make my car payment… I need help with getting a prescription… I’m in desperate financial trouble… help!  What can I do?!
Don’t panic!  Ordinarily, one can at least negotiate with a landlord or creditor for some form of extension while sorting things out.  This is especially the case if unexpected misfortune has fallen on an individual (losing job, incapacitating illness, financial crisis, etc).  The Cathedral is flooded with such requests and circumstances almost on a daily basis.  It’s not always well-known but there are a number of offices and organizations that assist people in such need… the Cathedral office maintains a list of such agencies.  Ordinarily, individuals contact our St. Vincent de Paul Society who evaluates such circumstances and determines to what extent they might be of assistance.

I’ve just acquired some religious items at Cathedral Gifts & Books… is it appropriate to have them blessed?
It’s altogether appropriate and praiseworthy to have such items blessed by a priest!  Often one may be available at the Cathedral offices, or certainly after Masses on Sunday or weekdays!