The Most Rev. Oscar A. Solis to give keynote address at Bishop's Dinner

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The Most Rev. Oscar A. Solis, Bishop of Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — The Most Rev. Oscar A. Solis will be the keynote speaker on Sept. 6 for the Bishop’s Dinner, an annual event that raises funds to support the Cathedral of the Madeleine.

The bishop will also be honored at the dinner with a video that chronicles the work that he has already done in the Diocese of Salt Lake City, said Patricia Wesson, the cathedral’s director of development.

While it is exciting to host Bishop Solis, who was installed as the 10th Bishop of Salt Lake City on March 7, it is also important to remember that the dinner will benefit the Cathedral of the Madeleine, which affects Catholic Utahns’ lives in many ways, Wesson said.

For example, the cathedral is the venue for many diocesan liturgical celebrations, including ordinations and the Rite of Election.

The Cathedral of the Madeleine “is the seat of the bishop and the seat of the diocese,” she said, adding that not only does it serve Catholics in Utah, it’s a landmark that attracts non-Catholics as well. In addition to tourists who are drawn by the architecture, people of all religious affiliations attend the Eccles Organ Festival and the Madeleine Arts Festival, and come to hear the performances by the Choir of the Cathedral of the Madeleine, Wesson said.

“We’re a cathedral for all people,” she said.

The cathedral is more than just a building to conduct rites in, it’s a symbol for the people, Wesson said. For example, on Sept. 11, 2001, the cathedral was filled to capacity with those praying for the safety of the men and women in danger, she said.

Offering financial support to the cathedral helps provide a place for people to go to be closer to God in times of struggle and in their everyday lives, Wesson said.

As the mother church of the diocese, the cathedral is tied to the diocese’s ministry; by supporting the cathedral, donors directly aid in the Church’s mission in Utah, said Father Martin Diaz, rector of the cathedral.

Just as the bishop influences many priests across the state, the cathedral, as the bishop’s seat, influences every parish in Utah, Fr. Diaz said.

“So, in a sense, we are all parishioners of the Cathedral of the Madeleine” and should wish to see it flourish, he said.

The Bishop’s Dinner draws not only Catholics but also local politicians and representatives of other religions.

“We want to encourage anyone who can attend to attend,” Wesson said.

WHAT: Bishop’s Dinner fundraiser

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 6, beginning with social hour at 6 p.m.

WHERE: The Grand America Hotel, 555 Main St., SLC

COST: $175 per seat

For reservations and information, contact Patricia Wesson, PWesson@utcotm.org or 801-328-8941 ext. 108.