A Letter from Monsignor Baker
January 22, 2012

Dear Parishioners and Friends,


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Before receiving Holy Communion the Church through her Liturgy has each of us extend to others a sign of peace.

In some sense the exchange of peace is a confirmation of a petition of the Our Father – “forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” It is closely connected with reception of Holy Communion because reconciliation and peace with one’s neighbor is a necessary element to being properly disposed to receive the Holy Eucharist.

Peace is a popular greeting in Scripture. The Lord tells His disciples at the Last Supper that He leaves them with His peace (Jn. 14: 27) and on the night of the first Easter Jesus greets His disciples with, “Peace be with you” (Jn. 20: 19, 21). St. Paul uses it often in his letters (Rom. 1: 7; 1 Cor. 1: 3; Gal. 1: 3).

The liturgical norm for the actual exchange of the sign of peace asks the congregation to give the sign of peace only to those who are nearest to them and in a sober manner. There is no need to give the sign of peace to everyone at Mass and it should never be a moment in which talking and gestures would detract from the sacred character of the Mass. Peace be with you.

In Christ,


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Reading for Today's Mass

Cathedral Church
200 Block of North 18th Street
Allentown, PA 18104
Parking available across from Church
Link to map for directions

Cathedral Rectory
1825 W Turner Street
Allentown, PA 18104
Office phone: 610-433-6461
Link to map for directions

Cathedral Parish Vision Statement

To be a place where the faithful can gather together for the Sunday celebration of the Eucharist, to teach Christ’s saving doctrine, and to practice the charity of the Lord in good works and brotherly love. (cf. CCC, 2179)


Mass Schedule
Sunday7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM, 12:00 Noon
Saturday8:00 AM, 4:15 PM (4:15 Mass fulfills Sunday obligation)
WeekdaysMonday-Friday 6:30 & 8:00AM
ChristmasSame as Sunday schedule
Holy DaysConsult Bulletin for schedule

Sacrament of Reconciliation
Weekdays15 minutes before each Mass
Saturday3:15 to 4:00 PM
Holy DaysConsult Bulletin

Sacrament of Baptism

First Sunday of every month. Preparatory class Thursday evening before.


Sacrament of Matriomy

Engaged couples are encouraged to meet with their parish priest at least one year in advance, but no later than six months prior to their proposed wedding date. Weddings at 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM on Saturdays only.


Parish Registration

Catholics living in the Cathedral Church parish boundaries should be registered in the Parish. Registration is required for the administration of the Sacraments, the attendance of the Cathedral School and PREP program, and for the issuance of certificates for Batism and Confirmation.

Please call the rectory to make an appointment with one of the Parish priests to register with in the Parish.

Drop-in registrations will not be taken

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