THE CATHEDRAL.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 2099, 15 November 1880, Page 4

THE CATHEDRAL.

TO THE BDITOE OP THE TEESS. Bie,—A letter appeared in your columns the other day relative to the appointment of another Canon. The writer, although on the right track, fell into an error, and evidently referred to the appointment of minor Canon. It is not expected, even by the most sanguine, that the Cathedral will be opened for service before next May, and it is therefore not to be wondered at that many persons have expressed great surprise at the rumor that already the appointment to the office of minor Canon has, to a certain extent, been made. In the first place there is no urgency, and consequently no excuse for ary hasty action. Great care and deliberation should bo exercised in the choice, because on the fitness of the person appointed depends, in a great measure, the success of tho Cabbedrai. The minor Canon will not only have to perform most of the services, but will bo the regular preacher at the Cathedral, and this is where our central Diocesan Church will have meat opportunity of exorcising power upon those who are drawn to her services. Nothing but a first-class preacher, one with special gifts, not only of voice but of Style, will attract. If it is otherwise, our long looked for Cathedral will bo an utter failure. Should this unfortunately be the case, the blame will rest upon those in authority, but they mast not forgot that it will be s slow and difficult process to rectify a bad beginning. There are hundreds among us who are anxiously looking forward to the opening of the Cathedral, nad it will be sad indeed, if, when the fabric is completed, there should be any failure in imparting life into her services. In the second place, the appointment is vested in the Bishop and Dean, with the concurrence of the Chapter, and therefore any cut and dried arrangement outside of the Chapter, and possibly only reluctantly concurred in by them, when the time arrives, as unavoidable, is practically an autocratic act which relies for confirmation on its intrinsic boldness and on the possible apathy of the Chapter. My reason for writing you on the subject is because I feel strongly that inefficiency in the Cathedral services will be a fatal blow to her power and usefulness. Yours, &0., Onlookee.