Like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. —1 PETER 2:5
A number of questions have come up during the various home gatherings. They are summarized here, with answers courtesy of Dean Steve. This page will be continually updated as new questions arise.
Campaign Planning & Vision
Q: How were these projects decided upon?
There have been extensive discussions with the pre-design group and the vestry; many needs and options were considered and then informed by the feasibility study.
Q: Will the Cathedral Foundation be involved in the campaign?
Yes, details TBD but the Foundation definitely will make a lead gift.
Q: Most capital campaigns involve a “pyramid” of contributions. Have there already been some initial commitments?
Yes, that detail is ready and will be shared in the coming weeks.
Q: Will there be an opportunity for parish feedback on the details of the design aesthetic?
Feedback is always welcome. The design committee makes recommendations to the Vestry, with opportunities for parish input along the way.
Construction Timeline & Logistics
Q: When will construction start? Will services be interrupted?
Construction is expected around 2028. We hope to stay in the nave throughout; if not, we’ll get creative with other spaces on campus.
Q: What happens if we don’t raise all the targeted amounts?
The vestry will prioritize if needed. Additional fundraising and possible timeline extensions may also be considered.
Q: If the campaign goes well, can work begin early?
We may stage some early work like HVAC or electrical, but this is to be determined.
Nave Seating, Flooring, & Aesthetic Questions
Q: Will the nave floor include a permanent labyrinth?
Possibly, if we reach our campaign stretch goals.
Q: Will the pews be replaced?
Yes. Current pews are in poor condition and can't be reused due to the radiant heat system. No decision has been made about what will replace them.
Q: Will the baptismal font need to be moved?
Not moved, but it will be raised to match the new floor level.
Q: Will the nave walls be refinished?
No, there are no plans to finish the concrete walls. Wainscoting was considered but removed due to cost.
Q: Will the new floor affect acoustics or include hearing support?
The new floor isn’t expected to change nave acoustics. A hearing loop may be included based on fundraising results.
Financial & Fundraising Details
Q: Can people designate which campaign goal they are contributing to?
We prefer unrestricted gifts, but donors may designate if needed.
Q: How much outside funding did Living Stones I receive?
About $2M was raised outside the parish and Cathedral Foundation.
Q: Is there a preferred method for paying a pledge?
We accept checks, credit/debit cards, and more. Note that card processing fees are charged to the cathedral, so providing your checking account details or paying by check will maximize your gift.
Sustainability & Energy Systems
Q: Will the Cathedral House heating system look like the heat pump in Thomsen Chapel?
It will be a larger VRF system; exact placement is TBD.
Q: What is the VRF heating system for Bloedel?
A rooftop-mounted Variable Refrigerant Flow system. It won't reuse the current radiators.
Q: Will the nave’s new system include environmental controls?
Yes—radiant heat, new controls, improved insulation, and ventilation will be added.
Q: Can the city provide enough electricity?
Yes. Both engineers and Seattle City Light confirm sufficient capacity.
Q: Was solar or wind considered?
Yes. Solar had a poor ROI and limited output. Wind wasn’t considered viable.
Q: Will the new electric system be renewable?
Yes. Seattle City Light’s supply is currently 100% renewable, mostly hydro.
Q: How much do we currently spend on heating? What’s expected with the new system?
Utilities were $111K in 2024, over half for natural gas. The new system should lower costs and reduce carbon output.
Music & Organ
Q: What will the new organ sound like?
Michael Kleinschmidt and David Wild created a video answering this—view it here: What Will It Sound Like?
Q: Will the new organ be used in worship?
Yes, possibly alongside the Flentrop (but not at the same time).
Q: Will the endowed music salaries be removed from the annual budget?
Not fully. A 4% annual draw from the endowment will help support the two positions but won’t fully fund them.
Other Common Questions
Q: When were seismic upgrades last done? Will more be added?
Major work was done in the 1990s and 2017. New work will meet code, but no major upgrades are expected.
Q: Will Cathedral Yoga or Compline Choir contribute to the campaign?
Yes. Compline Choir is already involved. Cathedral Yoga will be invited to participate.
Q: Will acoustics be studied in Bloedel and the nave?
Yes, Bloedel will get acoustic panels. No major change expected in the nave.
Q: Will the leaking roof be fixed?
It was repaired in 2023.
Q: How much does the choir raise for pilgrimages?
Evensong Choir’s fundraising is separate from the capital campaign.