Orthodoxy at Fort Ross: A Century of Pilgrimage and Witness

SANTA ROSA, CA — On Friday, October 3, 2025, the Orthodox faithful will gather at St. Seraphim of Sarov Cathedral for a one-day conference titled “The Story of Orthodoxy at Fort Ross: Then and Now,” marking the centennial anniversary of the first Orthodox pilgrimage to Fort Ross in 1925.

Beloved for its coastal beauty, Fort Ross is more than a historic park — it is sacred ground. The Holy Trinity–St. Nicholas Chapel, built by Russian settlers in the early 19th century, remains the earliest Orthodox house of worship in the continental United States. The site has been hallowed by the prayers and presence of five saints, including St. Innocent of Alaska and St. Peter the Aleut.

The centennial conference seeks to deepen appreciation of this spiritual legacy. It features a distinguished panel of historians, clergy, and researchers whose work illuminates the significance of Fort Ross in the history of Orthodoxy in America.

Keynote speaker Maria Sakovich, public historian and granddaughter of Archpriest Vladimir Sakovich — founder of the 1925 pilgrimage — will explore the intersection of Russian emigration, memory, and revival at Fort Ross. Fr. John, Head Curator at St. Tikhon’s Monastery, will speak on the missionary labors of St. Innocent and the canonization of St. Peter the Aleut, whose martyrdom took place in California.

Dr. Susan Morris will share archaeological and historical research tracing the final days of Chukagnak, the native Aleut who became St. Peter the Aleut after refusing to renounce Orthodoxy under torture in Los Angeles in 1815.

Dr. Nina Bogdan will present on the evolution of the Russian Orthodox diaspora in California, while former Fort Ross lead planner Innokentia Wellman will offer reflections on the saints and stories she has preserved over three decades of work at the site.

Special guest Breck Parkman will recall the 1989 visit of Fr. Veniaminov — a direct descendant of St. Innocent — to Fort Ross, and share insights on the site’s enduring symbolism of peace and unity.

The event includes all lectures and a provided lunch. Registration is $40 per person.

At Fort Ross itself, on Saturday, October 4th the hierarchs of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) and the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) will serve a hierarchical liturgy, followed by a festive catered picnic — tickets can be purchased for $50.

For Orthodox Christians and all who cherish the legacy of faith in the Americas, this conference and pilgrimage picnic offer a rare chance to participate in American Orthodox history and the preservation of our Holy places.

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