Roots that Endure is the title of the sermon to be given by the Very Rev. Dr. James A. Kowalski on Sunday, July 13 at Union Chapel in Oak Bluffs. The service begins at 10 a.m.

The theme of his message asks the question: what are the foundations of our faith and values that anchor us in troubled times, as persons and as nations?

Reverend Kowalski has been dean of the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in New York city since March of 2002. He was elected by its board following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and just before a devastating fire struck the cathedral a month after that election. The cathedral, which has been undergoing restoration, will be rededicated on Nov. 30.

Dean Kowalski had previously served inner city and suburban, large and small parishes in Connecticut. He is a Henry Crown fellow of the Aspen Institute and an American Leadership Fellow.