Cathedral
of Christ
the Light
Compared with the skyscrapers
in downtown Oakland, the
Cathedral of Christ the Light is
modest in height. Ephemeral and
reflective of every passing cloud,
its seeming lack of structural
solidity is startling. Unlike
many ecclesiastical fortresses,
this cathedral exudes a sense of
permeability, appearing to allow
in as much as it keeps out. Since
its dedication in 2008, it has
been compared to a nest, a tent,
a basket and other forms that are
rooted in the natural world and
vulnerable to its forces.
The Cathedral of Christ the
Light resonates as a place of
worship and instills a sense of
solace, spiritual renewal, and
respite from the secular world
— it provides a sanctuary in
the broadest sense of the word.
Located in downtown Oakland,
and composed of a 1,350-seat
sanctuary with side chapels, a
baptistery, and dependencies,
the cathedral honors its religious
and civic obligations to both the
Catholic Diocese and the city.
17 . wood architecture