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Got Any Ideas? Roman Catholic Diocese Asks Public To Rename Crystal Cathedral

GARDEN GROVE (CBS) — If you've ever wanted the chance to name a church, this could be the answer to your prayers.

KNX 1070's Mike Landa reports the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange is taking suggestions from the public on what to rename the landmark Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove.

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Bishop Todd Brown said there are a few guidelines to consider before you send in your vote via the diocese website.

"My only requirement is that I've asked that the name be something Christological" — emphasizing the nature and person of Jesus Christ — and not related to the apostles or the Virgin Mary, Brown said.

There's been no shortage of feedback from the public on the issue: Brown said there were already over 600 submissions in the first 24 hours since the diocese announced the campaign.

The diocese purchased the church for $57.5 million back in November in an bid that will pay off an estimated $51.7 million in debt as well as continue to fund a $300,000 annual annuity to Crystal Cathedral founder Rev. Robert H. Schuller and his wife.

Brown said Catholics in Orange County are eagerly waiting for a new name to be finalized.

"Members of the Catholic community are asking me what's the name going to be, and I think the name will help give them identity and ownership," he said.

Highlights from some of the suggestions already received include Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, Christ Cathedral, and Cathedral of the Resurrection, Brown added.

The deadline for submitting a cathedral name is Feb. 20.

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