As part of the Washington National Cathedral's ministry the Cathedral has for many years individually honored each state in the union. Once each month it "pulls out all the stops" for the people of a state in a special way with a Major State Day. Each state is recognized in this expanded celebration once every four years. The Cathedral will lift up the Commonwealth of Kentucky by paying special tribute to its people on May 21, 2006.

Everyone from Kentucky and those who have ties to the commonwealth from across the nation are invited to participate in the service, including Members of Congress, the governor and religious leaders of all faiths from across the state. Acolytes and youth from churches and houses of worship across Kentucky are invited to bring banners and join the opening procession. In addition there will be a special guest preacher from Kentucky for this service that begins at 11 am Visitors and friends from the Bluegrass State are then welcome to attend a reception immediately following the service.

There will also be an opportunity to participate in a special pilgrimage, on the Friday or Saturday prior to the special service, to include a quiet, contemplative pilgrimage journey of the grounds and Cathedral for youth and/or adults.

A Kentucky choir will be invited to perform a 25-minute a cappella choral prelude before the service. If your choir is interested, you should submit a letter of interest, along with a recording, to:

Benjamin Bradburn
NCA Program Coordinator
National Cathedral Association
Massachusetts and Wisconsin Avenues, N.W.
Washington, DC 20016-5098

The Cathedral Music Office will then extend an invitation to the selected choir.

If you have any questions about Kentucky Day at Washington National Cathedral or you would like to arrange a special presentation on the Cathedral for your church or group, please call your National Cathedral Association's Regional Volunteer Leader: Ann Heard, 2105 Bridgeport Drive, Lexington, Kentucky, 40502, 859 266 0630, ann.heard@att.net.