Welcome to the First Cathedral.
The Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour was the first cathedral built in the United States of any Christian denomination. The building was started in 1862 and finished in 1869. To build a Cathedral in Faribault was the idea of the first bishop of Minnesota Henry B. Whipple and the Dr. Rev. James L Breck.
Today the three Cathedral buildings serve as a history lesson of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota, but is also a vibrant, active congregation and the center of Christ’s love in Southern Minnesota. We welcome everyone! Join us for congregational outreach, community events and rich liturgy and music.
I am Fr. Jim Zotalis, the Dean of the First Cathedral. I’m a “cradle Episcopalian,” which means I have been an Episcopalian since birth and I am a third generation Greek. I was previously the Dean of the First Cathedral from 2001 to 2013. I returned in August of 2021. Since my ordination in 1988, I served as chaplain at Shattuck-St. Mary’s school, priest at St. James in Fergus Falls, MN, Dean of the Cathedral in Faribault, MN, priest at St. George’s in Bismarck, ND and priest-in-charge at St Peter’s in Kasson, MN and now Dean of the Cathedral once again. It’s great to be back in this sacred place!
My wife Cecelia and I have a home in Faribault. You will often find us walking our favorite four-legged friend, Bashaw, a little black Schnauzer. I enjoy spending time with family (especially my grandchildren), playing tennis, riding bike, and traveling. The history of the Cathedral and of Minnesota is one of my great interests. My hobbies include collecting old toys and sports memorabilia. I enjoy attending antique auctions, selling some of my toys at shows, and visiting antique malls.
I enjoy giving tours of the First Cathedral and sharing the history of this special place and it’s role in the history of Minnesota. Please contact the Cathedral office at 507-334-7732 if you would like a tour or would just like to come in and visit.
We at the Cathedral welcome you to join us! We look forward to connecting with you.
