Record Crowds Gather to Honor St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco

Photo: synod.com

SAN FRANCISCO — Thousands of faithful gathered at the Cathedral of the Icon of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow” for the annual celebration of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco, drawing a record number of pilgrims since the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday evening, July 4, a solemn All-Night Vigil was led by His Eminence Archbishop Kyrill of San Francisco and Western America, joined by His Grace Bishop Theodosy of Seattle, His Grace Bishop James of Sonora, and clergy from across the diocese and other Orthodox jurisdictions. The choir, under Vladimir Krassovsky’s direction, joined with clergy singers to offer deeply moving hymns.

The next morning, July 5, the Divine Liturgy was followed by a festive procession with the relics of St. John around the cathedral. The celebration concluded with a fraternal meal prepared by the cathedral sisterhood. The event reaffirmed the deep spiritual connection between the Orthodox faithful and St. John, the city’s heavenly protector.

Previously, UOJ shared an address delivered by Fr. Andrei Tkachev at a conference dedicated to St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco

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