Diocese of Lexington calls new leaders for camp and conference center
Justin and Elena Vogel and their family.
A third-generation camper and a longtime volunteer will serve as the new leaders of the beloved Cathedral Domain, a vital ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Lexington located in Irvine, Kentucky. Bishop Mark Van Koevering has called Justin and Elena Vogel to guide the Cathedral Domain in its next chapter of ministry and transformation.
Justin has been appointed as director of the Domain, and Elena will serve as program and administrative assistant. Originally from Northern Kentucky, the couple has deep roots at the Domain—in fact, Justin’s grandfather attended some of the earliest summer camps and helped build the cathedral building at the center.
“The Cathedral Domain has been a part of my life as long as I can remember,” said Justin, who currently serves as assistant vice president at Thomas More University in Crestview Hills. “From my earliest days as a camper through years of service on staff, the Domain has shaped my faith, leadership, and sense of community. Over time, it has truly grown into our family’s second home, and we are excited to serve in this new way.”
The Cathedral Domain offers a dynamic summer camping program, drawing more than 500 children and teens from across the state for a time of spiritual formation and community building. In addition, the Domain hosts retreats, conferences, special programs, weddings, and other events. Perched on the mountains in Lee County about an hour southeast of Lexington, the Cathedral Domain is often called “the heart of the diocese.”
“I am delighted that Justin and Elena will be taking up the task of leading the Cathedral Domain into its next season,” said Bishop Van Koevering. “They have deep roots in Domain lore and bring a fresh vision to this vital diocesan ministry. Let’s give them a big DioLex welcome, for “This is the Lord’s doing, and it is wonderful to see.”
The appointment follows the retirement in December 2025 of longtime Domain leaders, Andy and Cindy Sigmon, who have spearheaded the ministry for thirty-four years.
“Cindy and I have been praying for God to provide the right leaders to continue the ministry of the Cathedral Domain into the future, and God, as always, came through,” said Andy. “We are beyond thrilled that Bishop Mark chose Justin, Elena, and their family. After thirty-four years, it will be hard to walk away, but now we can leave knowing that the ministry will be in good hands. We can’t wait to see how the Domain thrives under their leadership.”
Justin and Elena and their three children—Joshua (11), Trevor (8), and Caroline (5)—will make their home at the Cathedral Domain. Justin will begin his work on February 1, 2026; Elena will work part-time remotely so she can finish the school year in her role as a paraeducator at a Northern Kentucky elementary school. She and the children will join Justin in time for summer camp.
“I never imagined my career would lead me here, but Justin and I feel strongly that God is calling our family to this work,” said Elena. “Over the years, I’ve experienced Domain love through Justin and his family, and I’m grateful for the chance to step fully into this community. I’m excited to serve alongside all of you in the years ahead.”
Butch Clements, chair of the Cathedral Domain board, said the new leadership of Justin and Elena will build upon and expand the mission of the center.
“While it’s hard to imagine the Cathedral Domain without Andy and Cindy Sigmon on the mountain, waiting to greet us when we arrive, I’m looking forward to supporting Justin and Elena in their calling to lead the Domain in the next chapter of our storied mountain mission.”
“Elena and I are honored and humbled by the trust placed in us to lead this place into its next exciting chapter,” said Justin. “We are ready and willing to build upon all that has been created here, while exploring new ways to grow and sustain the camp for generations to come.”
For more information about the Cathedral Domain and upcoming programs, visit www.cathedraldomain.org. View a welcome video from Justin and Elena.
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The Diocese of Lexington encompasses 34 faith communities across the eastern half of Kentucky, including Lexington, the second largest city in Kentucky, north to the Ohio River, and east to the mountain communities of Appalachian Kentucky. Our purpose is to join in with the Spirit to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ Jesus. Learn more about our ministries at www.diolex.org.