The stature of Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral is architecturally conveyed by the inclusion of a prominent dome, the significance of which was described by the architect:
The word dome itself originated in the Latin word domus, meaning home.
 Thereby designated as the 'home' of the diocesan family, Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral is where the faithful will gather in union with the whole Church, under the leadership of the bishop, to encounter Our Lord in Word and Sacrament.
The dome reaches upward above the assembly, and through it sunlight illuminates the sanctuary directly below, serving as an architectural expression of the union of heaven and earth that takes place within our worship and prayer.
It is in this sacred place that we are brought into communion with God who in Christ is the source of our salvation, joy and unity.
From this experience we go forth strengthened and reinvigorated in our loving service to one another and those in need.

As the dome of the new Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral stands above the tree line as a landmark in the community, it will also prompt us to raise our eyes and lift our hearts to our Heavenly Father and remain focused on His plan for each of us.
It will evoke the dignity of the Church's place within society, and inspire us to carry out its mission in our lives.

— James H. O'Brien, Principal Architect, O'Brien & Keane
The 162-ton copper-clad ribbed dome was constructed on the ground and lifted into place via crane in a remarkable feat by the contractor.
A decorative finial and a cross embellish the top of the dome, which reaches to a total height of 173 feet above the ground.
The drum of the dome, adorned with a range of paired Corinthian columns and entablature and sixteen arched windows, is located directly above the sanctuary platform below it.

The dome is composed of an inner and outer shell, with a cavity between them.
This space provides access to the top of the dome through the interstitial space, for access to the engineering systems.
The interior of the dome exhibits many of the same characteristics as its exterior, including Corinthian pilasters and ribs.
The interior height of the dome reaches 137 feet above the floor below.
The stature of Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral is architecturally conveyed by the inclusion of a prominent dome, the significance of which was described by the architect:
The word dome itself originated in the Latin word domus, meaning home.  Thereby designated as the 'home' of the diocesan family, Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral is where the faithful will gather in union with the whole Church, under the leadership of the bishop, to encounter Our Lord in Word and Sacrament. The dome reaches upward above the assembly, and through it sunlight illuminates the sanctuary directly below, serving as an architectural expression of the union of heaven and earth that takes place within our worship and prayer. It is in this sacred place that we are brought into communion with God who in Christ is the source of our salvation, joy and unity. From this experience we go forth strengthened and reinvigorated in our loving service to one another and those in need.
As the dome of the new Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral stands above the tree line as a landmark in the community, it will also prompt us to raise our eyes and lift our hearts to our Heavenly Father and remain focused on His plan for each of us. It will evoke the dignity of the Church's place within society, and inspire us to carry out its mission in our lives.
— James H. O'Brien, Principal Architect, O'Brien & Keane
The 162-ton copper-clad ribbed dome was constructed on the ground and lifted into place via crane in a remarkable feat by the contractor. A decorative finial and a cross embellish the top of the dome, which reaches to a total height of 173 feet above the ground. The drum of the dome, adorned with a range of paired Corinthian columns and entablature and sixteen arched windows, is located directly above the sanctuary platform below it.
The dome is composed of an inner and outer shell, with a cavity between them. This space provides access to the top of the dome through the interstitial space, for access to the engineering systems. The interior of the dome exhibits many of the same characteristics as its exterior, including Corinthian pilasters and ribs. The interior height of the dome reaches 137 feet above the floor below.
Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral (Raleigh, North Carolina)