The Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection in Manhattan stands as a beacon for Russian Orthodox Christians in New York and serves as their spiritual home. Its history speaks volumes about both the diverse experiences of immigrants and Russians in NYC, as well as the evolution of Orthodoxy throughout the 20th century.
HISTORY
100 years ago, Orthodox Christians from Russia and Poland settled in Greenpoint, Williamsburg and Maspeth(New York). They worked tirelessly to uphold their faith while doing their best to support each other.
The community had grown rapidly and was ready for a church. Parishioners-activists purchased property in Greenpoint and an architect created a design for what would become known as The Cathedral.
Today, the Church continues to provide spiritual comfort for many. Its long history speaks volumes about its people’s commitment to spreading the Gospel and loving God with all of their heart.
The Church can be an effective instrument in missionary work. It selects and trains candidates for priesthood or catechetical missions from among local people, then sends them out to serve in their homeland, evangelize non-Orthodox believers and instruct them in Christian faith.
VISIT
This church is situated in a residential neighborhood and it is not open to the public during weekdays.
The church is deeply spiritual and boasts an iconic icon known for helping those in dire situations. As such, I was delighted to visit this rare relic and I look forward to returning someday.
New Yorkers must visit this iconic building! Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but the people here are incredibly friendly as well.
Visiting Orthodox churches can be a truly unforgettable experience! However, it is essential to remember that when in an Orthodox church you should always act appropriately.
We had the honor of interviewing His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion (Kapral), First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. He shared stories about the first visitation of a main holy icon to Russia, as well as about reunification and life among Russian emigration. His answers to our questions were truly inspiring – we were delighted to have him join us!
MATERIALS
The Three Saints Russian Orthodox Church Cultural Center provides a range of materials and programs to educate visitors about Orthodoxy. These include books, music, art, and videos.
Parishioners also take part in religious education for both children and adults, offering Sunday school classes as well as evening Bible studies.
Additionally, the church provides a summer program for youth that involves camping and volunteer work in hospitals or soup kitchens. This helps young people become involved with church life as well as more aware of their faith.
The parish organizes events to commemorate national holidays such as Memorial Day and Independence Day. In 1995, President Bush visited the church to deliver his speech at a Memorial Day celebration.
CONTACT
St John the Forerunner Russian Orthodox Church began in 1914 when 42 residents of a Carpatho-Russian neighborhood met and organized to serve their needs. To accommodate their growing congregation, they chose a site at the southeast corner of West and Church streets in Cohoes neighborhood of Boston.
After many years, Fr Benjamin Basalyga became the first resident priest in April 1916. He served the new parish until February 1931 when Rev Gregory Stefchak took his place.
Under his leadership, the church’s most notable contribution to worship was its stunning stained glass windows (not many of them). Other noteworthy church activities included construction of the city’s first modern spire. In addition to clergy and laity, various organizations and ministries play an integral role in running the day-to-day operations: Ladies Altar Society; RBO; Senior/Junior R clubs; Ministry to shut-ins and sick; Outreach & Charity committee; Social life & Sports Committee; Fund raising committee.
