Igloo cathedral construction stalled
IQALUIT, NU—The Anglican Diocese of the Arctic is trying to raise more than a million dollars to rebuild an igloo-shaped cathedral.
St. Jude's cathedral was destroyed by arson in 2005.
"It was unbelievable," says Andrew Atagotaaluk, bishop of the Diocese of the Arctic. "It devastated a lot of people. I know many people now ordained in the ministry were Sunday school children there."
Construction began on the cathedral's outer structure this summer. The diocese has already raised about $3.5 million toward the first phase of the project. But more funds are needed to complete it.
Since the fire, the church has been meeting in a parish hall. Atagotaaluk says that some parishioners had a hard time with the adjustment, and numbers have decreased.
He adds the unique shape of the cathedral also attracted a lot of tourists, as well as drawing in many of those who came through Iqaluit temporarily for work or en route to other areas of the Arctic.
"I think we lost a good number of people who would otherwise have been nourished through the ministry of the cathedral," he adds. "It's not just the congregation that is going through a very difficult time, it's all the other communities who link up through it."
It is hoped the cathedral will reopen next Christmas.
"It is our hope," he says, "but without more funds it is not guaranteed. So we are desperately trying to fundraise enough.
"It was a very special place."
Dear Readers:
ChristianWeek relies on your generous support. please take a minute and donate to help give voice to stories that inform, encourage and inspire.
Donations of $20 or more will receive a charitable receipt.Thank you, from Christianweek.
