In Memoriam: Virginia Mae Cretella Mars

Our dear friend Virginia Mars died on Sept. 1 at age 94. Ginnie holds a special place in our hearts for her friendship, her leadership and her passionate commitment to this Cathedral.

She was a mentor to me and many others, and an inspiration to all of us. Her life is a testament to the power of God’s grace to do good in the world.

In 2017, shortly after I arrived at the Cathedral, I sat down with Ginnie to share with her my vision for restoring the shuttered College of Preachers.  I knew she loved that building and its potential as much as I did. She immediately got on board and her immense generosity, combined with transformative gifts from her daughters and others, made the new Virginia Mae Center possible. She was able to see what this beautiful building could become, and she decided to do everything she could to bring it to life. What a testament to faith, commitment and dedication.

I hope you share the comfort I have knowing that Ginnie’s spirit will always remain with us through the legacy of her leadership and in the beautiful facility that bears her name. Her warmth and welcome are embedded within its walls, and wherever you look, you can hear Ginnie saying, “Let’s go, we’ve got important work to do, what are we waiting for?”

In the coming days, we will share details about the service that will pay tribute to this extraordinary person we were all privileged to know. Please pray for Ginnie and her family, especially her beloved daughters Marijke, Valerie, Victoria and Pamela. We give thanks for the life of Virginia Mae Cretella Mars – the gift she was to each of us, to this Cathedral, and to advancing the Kingdom of God.

Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant, Ginnie. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive her into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.