Grace Cathedral in San Francisco has become the “place to be” for a diverse crowd of non-churchgoers who are flocking to the nearly 100-year-old Christian cathedral for yoga classes, drag shows, and other new age-y events.
According to a recent article in The New York Times, the gothic Episcopal church has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, attracting a congregation that isn’t necessarily religious. The cathedral’s new program, “Grace Arts,” offers a variety of events and classes, including yoga, concerts, drag shows, and sound baths.
The Times’ San Francisco bureau chief Heather Knight reported that the cathedral has almost doubled its normal congregation, with Grace Arts members now outnumbering regular church members. The program has drawn a younger crowd, with the average age of participants dropping from 63 to 40 in just two years.
Many of the new members are people who have strayed from traditional religion but are seeking community and a sense of belonging. Yoga instructor Darren Main, who felt shamed by the Catholic Church, noted that many attendees left the church feeling unwelcome or unsafe but still desire a space where they can come together for reasons beyond politics.
The dean of Grace Cathedral, The Very Rev. Malcolm Clemens Young, expressed his delight at the diverse group of people attending the cathedral’s events, including agnostics and atheists. He emphasized that everyone is welcome at Grace Cathedral, regardless of their beliefs.
With its unique blend of spirituality, community, and unconventional events, Grace Cathedral has become a sanctuary for those seeking connection and meaning in a city known for its lack of religious affiliation.
