A Byzantine Landmark in the Heart of San Francisco

Spontaneously and without much fanfare, few weeks ago, we “spilled out” onto the courtyard, most of us for the first time, to get a feel for the outdoor space. The community at large got to experience this during this year’s Festival, and we will be enjoying it for years to come. Although we have a little way to go to complete the fountain and the landscaping, including the old chapel columns (and much more of a way to go to complete the interior of the new Cathedral, you can all take great pride reflecting on what, with your faith, determination, and vision, you have accomplished so far, since Loma Prieta back in 1989 claimed all of our facilities. You did it and you are doing it in faithful response to our God, when he told Moses, some 3000 years ago: “Build me a Sanctuary, and I will appear among you.” (from the Septuagint: Καὶ ποιήσεις μοι ἁγίασμα, καὶ ὀφθήσομαι ἐν ὑμῖν). (Exodus 25:8). The Lord was, of course, referring to the eventual building of the Temple in Jerusalem. We are building the His Temple in San Francisco! Be proud of what you are doing: you are building His sanctuary, a sacred space, where we will be gathering for prayer and for the glorification of God’s Holy Name. Where? In the heart of one of the world’s premier cities, where the Orthodox Christian faith is poised to proclaim the Gospel message of salvation, in spite of or, perhaps, answering to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. We’ve played a historic role in this regard the last (almost) 100 years—we were established in 1921). And, we look forward to playing an even greater role during the second century of our existence as a community, and beyond. Enjoy the photos. More importantly, enjoy the actual space. Come, visit us, pray with us, be a part of our family.