The Holy Virgin Russian Orthodox Cathedral, San Francisco

The Joy of All Who Sorrow, also known as the Holy Virgin Cathedral, stands as a remarkable Russian Orthodox place of worship in the Richmond District of San Francisco. This grand cathedral represents the largest among the six cathedrals belonging to the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, an organization with a widespread presence, boasting over 400 parishes worldwide. Furthermore, it serves as the cathedra of the Diocese of San Francisco and Western America.

The present-day cathedral, located on Geary Boulevard, owes its foundation to Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco, known by his birth name Mikhail Maximovitch. This vibrant neighborhood is renowned for its Russian restaurants and shops, with the Holy Virgin Cathedral serving as the most striking symbol of the Russian presence.

The construction of the cathedral commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony on June 25, 1961, and was completed in 1965. It was finally consecrated on January 31, 1977. A significant figure in its establishment, Saint John, was laid to rest within the cathedral after his passing in 1966. Designed by Oleg N. Ivanitsky, the cathedral boasts five onion domes, each adorned with 24-carat gold leaf, presenting an awe-inspiring sight.

The interior of the cathedral is a sight to behold, graced with a plethora of icons, religious paintings, and mosaics, all brilliantly illuminated by a voluminous chandelier. However, this splendid interior can only be experienced by those attending religious services or during designated visitation days. Notably, the exquisite mosaic work on the exterior of the cathedral was skillfully executed by artist Alfonso Pardiñas of Byzantine Mosaics.