Eight hundred guests celebrated the opening of the much-anticipated Christ Cathedral and its transformation from Crystal Cathedral, built in 1980. Following Bishop Kevin Vann’s warm welcome and a concert with celebrated singers Jackie Evancho and Chris Mann accompanied by the Pacific Symphony, an elegant tented dinner on the Cathedral Plaza orchestrated by Elite OC Productions awaited. Photography Lisa Renee Photography
Gala guests entering the Christ Cathedral with the Arboretum and Tower of Hope buildings in the backgroundGuests gathered in the newly-renovated and restored Christ CathedralCelebrated singers Jackie Evancho and Chris Mann performed with Pacific SymphonyCelebration Committee Co-Chairs and Diamond Cross Sponsors Tim and Susan Strader receiving the Benemerenti Award from the Pope from Bishop Kevin Vann and Christ Cathedral Rector Christopher SmithPresenting Sponsor Farmers & Merchants Bank’s History Wall showing timeline from Crystal Cathedarl to Christ CathedralGabriel Ferrucci received an image of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, for his work as facilitator with the Ruffatti firm in Italy, responsible for designing and restoring the Hazel Wright Organ, Richard Heim received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal for his work making the Cathedral construction transformation a reality, and Sister Katherine Gray was acknowledged for her dedication to the campus ministriesBishop Kevin Vann, center, with Celebration Co-Chairs and Platinum Sponsors Marc and Jacqueline DuPont Carlson Bishop Thanh Thai NguyenMoti and Idit Ferder, owners of Lugano Diamonds, Presenting Jewelry SponsorChrist Cathedral construction manager Eric Flynn with his wife Linda and Bishop Timothy FreyerDiamond Cross Sponsors Kent and Ginni Valley with Platinum Sponsor Ann ConwayDiamond Sponsors S. Paul and Marybelle Musco and Carmela and Ben Du
