Throughout history, Cathedrals were framed as both physical spaces and expressions of the church’s mission, serving as houses of prayer, centers for teaching, and places of unity and service. This presentation explores the theological and practical significance of cathedrals within the church, emphasizing its role as a spiritual community and institution. Key themes will include the symbolism of the bishop’s chair (cathedra) and the cathedral’s role in fostering connections between the church and the wider community. The presentation also highlights the unique role of Christ Church Cathedral in Hartford as the spiritual heart of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the role of Cathedrals in the life of a diocese as well as the particulars of the governance and structure of Christ Church Cathedral in our Diocese in CT.
FACILITATORS: Dr. Jilda Aliotta is an active lay member of Christ Church Cathedral and the Episcopal Church in Connecticut. She has served the Cathedral in several capacities including as a member of the Cathedral Chapter and chair of the Congregation Committee. From 2016-2018, she served as co-chair of the Chapter’s Constitution and Statutes Revision Committee with then Cathedral Chancellor Michael Southwick. She has also served on the Governance Committees of several secular nonprofit organization. At the Diocesan level, Dr. Aliotta is a member of the Racial Healing Justice and Reconciliation Ministry Network. She holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Minnesota and is a faculty member at the University of Hartford
Thomas A. Rouse, Esq. is a parishioner at St. James’s, West Hartford. He graduated from Trinity College and UConn Law and has been a practicing attorney in Connecticut since 1975. Tom is currently a member of the Standing Committee and served on Mission Council representing the NC Region. He is the Treasurer of Camp Washington, our ECCT camp and retreat center, and serves as the Chancellor of Christ Church Cathedral.
The Very Reverend Miguelina Howell served as Dean of Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford, CT. Miguelina is a Clinical Psychologist and serves as faculty for CREDO, a Church Pension Group Wellness Program for clergy. She has had an active ministry in the wider church for decades from serving on the Presiding Bishop Staff to TEC Executive Council to various wider church committees, including the Task Force for Reimagining the Episcopal Church (TREC). In Connecticut, Miguelina is a member of Mission Council and serves on local boards in the art community in Hartford. Miguelina rejoices in partnering to create opportunities that explore the intercession of spirituality and the arts as well as in crafting liturgies that draw us closer to God and each other.
Event Timeslots (2)
Session Two (11:30 AM-12:45 PM)–2025
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Tuesday, 4/1
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