Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
The Bay Area Reporter - November 23, 2000
Cynthia Laird
Bishop William Swing will consecrate the altar, with representatives from a variety of faiths attending. Officials said that Grace Cathedral remembers those who have died of AIDS. The dedication will allow participants to express their message of hope, compassion, and understanding about AIDS on a global basis right before World AIDS Day, which is Friday, December 1.
McKenzie Ward, with Grace Cathedral, said that if not for the passion and generosity of many people, the chapel would have remained a dream. The interfaith chapel was established to provide a sanctum of understanding, comfort, and remembrance. It embraces those who come to pay their respects. Throughout the ages, communities' stories have been shared through their places of worship.
The inspiration for the chapel came from a piece of artwork created by the late Keith Haring, who died of AIDS-related complications in 1990. His altarpiece, "The Life of Christ," was in need of a permanent home after being exhibited at the Palo Alto Cultural Center. It made perfect sense to house the artwork at Grace Cathedral, officials said, which is a house of prayer for all people. What took place in the years prior to the consecration was a lot of fundraising and contributions by people who believed in the project.
Some of the contributors include James Hormel, ambassador to Luxembourg, who donated $25,000; San Francisco designer John Wheatman, who contributed his vision and design; Les Silverman of STG Graphics; Steve Pargman of CBS Design; Don Bogish of Hampton Lane; and Mike Dean, president, Western Exhibitors.
The November 30 dedication starts at 5:15 p.m. at Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street, in San Francisco.
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