Founder //
William J. Collier
Many know me as “Jake”.
(Long story.)
Origins
I grew up in the Metro Atlanta area and had a love for music from an early age, which led me ultimately to the guitar as a teenager. I actually became a pretty popular guitarist in the area, thanks in large part to the church. Feeling the pressures of purity culture, I got married at 19 and accidentally started a family around the time I was of legal drinking age. These events led to a series of identity crises, which… are not fun. Brutal as they were, I’m now very grateful for them because they opened the path of progressive theology and Christian Mysticism to me. My worldview wouldn’t be as expansive as it is today if it weren’t for those difficult times.
Experience
With decades of experience leading teams, counseling volunteers, and creating art, I feel strongly compelled to “minister” directly to those who’ve been burned by religion, who wish to pursue a more universal spirituality. I know firsthand that we’re going to need help filling the void left by the church when we know we can no longer participate. Through communing with nature and homesteading out in rural Georgia, I’ve redefined who I am. Transcendental Meditation, God as Mother Nature, and a commitment to serve mankind are now what define me. I am confident that another clear path is available by expanding Christianity, for all.
Current Work
Having lived without a real professional focus for a large part of my life, I’ve become a bit of a renaissance man (by necessity). My body of work before Cathedral Project looked like a hodgepodge of internet marketing, music production and ministry, and even renovating vintage Airstreams! Now is the time for me to dedicate my full attention to what I know is my most focused work to date, expanding Christian spirituality through meditation, art, and community.
Check out Ground, a podcast from Cathedral Project, hosted by William Collier (me!).