Holy Virgin Cathedral Launches Campaign to Restore Five Crosses

SAN FRANCISCO — Leaders of Holy Virgin Cathedral in San Francisco have launched a fundraising campaign to restore the five crosses that have long crowned the historic church, citing years of deterioration caused by the city’s fog, salt air, wind, and changing weather conditions. The project aims to remove, refurbish, and reinstall each cross to ensure their preservation for future generations.

The cathedral, which houses the relics of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco, is regarded as one of the most significant Orthodox Christian pilgrimage sites in North America. Church leaders said the restoration effort is intended not only to maintain the building’s physical appearance, but also to safeguard an enduring symbol of faith that has watched over the city for decades.

According to the fundraising committee, previous capital improvement efforts have already supported several major projects within the cathedral, including the revitalization of all three iconostases, the regilding of St. John’s reliquary, and the installation of new runner rugs. Organizers say donations of any size will help advance the latest restoration initiative.

In addition to financial contributions, parishioners and supporters are being encouraged to share information about the campaign with friends, family members, and through social media. Cathedral officials expressed hope that a united effort will help preserve the sacred sanctuary and its prominent golden crosses for generations to come.

Donations for the restoration project can be made here.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Holy Cross Monastery’s new church received crosses and cupolas.