The construction of the Cathedral Church St. John the Divine, like its European predecessors, inevitably became a community effort and lay members of the community would be integral to its completion. It is noteworthy that the initiative to create a lay organization were not laypersons, but clergy, who wisely saw the need for a lay group dedicated to the support of Cathedral and its activities.
The Laymen’s Club was founded in 1908 and for decades was exclusively for male Episcopalians. The Club expanded its membership in 1975 to include men and women not only from the Cathedral community, but from the Diocese and beyond, including non-Episcopalians. The Laymen's Club has been a major vehicle for individuals, who by their time and treasure, support to the Cathedral and its programs. They serve as guides, ushers and acolytes, and hold positions on various boards and committees. Their membership has a profound desire to see this great institution continue to enrich the cultural life of the City and the nation.
The functions of The Laymen's Club grew in the early years, expanding to encompass the whole of the early publishing activities of the Cathedral, producing the guidebooks, postcards and pamphlets sold at the Cathedral. As the cathedral rose, members gave tours, or "pilgrimages," about the Cathedral, and reached out into the community giving lectures and "magic lantern" presentations about the Cathedral and its progress.
Our goals are fourfold:
| • | To interpret, celebrate, and support Cathedral arts, architecture, history, and outreach |
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| • | To support the Cathedral in myriad ways, including enhancing and renewing the building and grounds as well as supporting events that take place within the Cathedral or elsewhere on its behalf |
| • | To strengthen the Cathedral as a vital spiritual community in the diocese, city, nation and world |
| • | To foster a spiritual fellowship among women and men who volunteer at the Cathedral or are otherwise dedicated to advancing the Cathedral's mission |
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