Frequently Asked Questions

Having a Baby? - It is most appropriate to provide children with the grace of the Sacrament of Baptism and to welcome them into the community of faith within six months of birth. For first time parents, formation is required regarding Christian parenting and the teaching of the Church. While a Godmother and Godfather are traditional, only one sponsor is required for baptism and must be a practicing, registered Catholic who can obtain a “sponsor letter” from their parish. Christians of other denominations may serve as a “Christian Witness” and must also provide evidence of their church membership. Deacon John Sferry can assist any parishioner with instructions and planning infant baptism.

Tying the Knot? - For Christians, Marriage is a Sacrament that is best celebrated in the home church of the bride or the groom. For weddings at the Cathedral, a six-month minimum period of preparation is required. This preparation includes a Pre-Cana class or retreat, the Prepare and Enrich Marriage Preparation instrument, and liturgical planning. Those who are not parishioners of the Cathedral may celebrate their weddings in the Cathedral; however, those are exceptional cases and must be discussed with the parish staff. Deacon John Sferry can assist anyone interested in planning a wedding.

Been to Confession Lately? - The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a healing remedy for our sinfuIness. Confession, one part of the Sacrament, calls us to discover the struggles that cause sinful acts and present them to God in the presence of the priest. All adult Christians should consider approaching this sacrament at least twice a year especially during Advent and Lent. Although serious matters should be brought before the priest, our lesser sins are healed through the celebration of Mass or with sincere contrition and any good work. Cathedral Confession Schedule.

Divorced and Catholic? - Divorce is the sad and painful death of a once precious dream. Faith in Jesus Christ can assist in its healing. Simply being divorced does not separate a Catholic from the Sacraments. Divorced Catholics are encouraged to celebrate the Sacraments regularly. Because of our belief in the life-time commitment of marriage, we urge those who are remarried and without an annulment to abstain from receiving Communion, but to attend Mass with the Christian community. Divorced and remarried Catholics should talk to a parish staff member regarding the possibility of an annulment so that their union can be blessed by the Church.

Want to become Catholic? - The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the Rite by which we add members to our Catholic faith community. Generally, every September a new group gathers to learn about the Catholic Faith and to prepare for baptism or reception into the Church. All are invited to investigate the Catholic faith by attending these weekly sessions. Carolyn Apperson Hansen can assist anyone interested in becoming Catholic or in sharing as a team member.  Call 216-771-6666 Ext. 5620 or email <capperson-hansen@dioceseofcleveland.org>

Is someone sick among you? - The parish community prays continually for the healing of our sick parishioners. The Sacrament of the Sick (anointing) is available to anyone who is seriously or chronically ill, weakened by age, or threatened by major surgery. Likewise, Communion calls to the homebound are made monthly or upon request. Please call or email the parish office if you or your loved one is hospitalized or is in need of these special services.

At the hour of death - When a Christian dies, it is a significant event in the life of our parish. There are three moments in the journey from death to burial: the Vigil Services during the visitation period, the funeral mass or service, the committal service at the cemetery. If cremation is to take place, the most appropriate time for cremation is AFTER the Funeral Liturgy at church. All remains of Catholics must be buried in blessed graves, crypts or at sea. Please speak to someone from the parish staff immediately upon a death of your loved one and before plans have been finalized.

Remembering the dead! - It is an unbroken tradition of the Christian faithful to pray for the dead. The intention of the Mass is a customary form of this prayer and remembrance. The typical offering requested to obtain the intention of a particular mass is $10 in the Diocese of Cleveland. We ask that no more than two masses per year for any one individual be reserved. The parish office can accept these stipend offerings and/or assist in directing your offerings to other churches.

How can I become more involved? - There are many ways for Catholics to get more involved in their faith and in the ministry of the Church. Those include liturgical ministries (such as choir member, reader, altar server, usher or eucharistic minister at mass), various parish ministries (such as social justice, RCIA, new member, evangelization, and community life), as well as volunteer roles as holiday church decoration, counters, office support, etc. Please speak with a parish staff member to discern your gifts, your time, and your opportunities to serve.

Your Generosity Can Live On - If you would like to designate the Cathedral as the beneficiary of your life insurance, retirement account, or personal estate it should be listed as “The Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, Roman Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, Ohio.” Your legacy would be very much appreciated.