SAN FRANCISCO: 7 July 2025
The Cathedral of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow” hosts the celebration of St John of Shanghai and San Francisco

On Friday, July 4, 2025, on the eve of the global celebration in memory of St John, Archbishop of Shanghai, the Miracle-worker of San Francisco, a vigil was solemnly held at the Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow." The service was led by His Eminence Archbishop Kyrill of San Francisco and Western America. He was joined by His Grace Bishop Theodosius of Seattle, and His Grace Jacob, Bishop of Sonora. Archimandrite Vasily (Permyakov), a cleric of the Orthodox Church in America, headed the priestly ranks. Numerous clergy from the diocese participated in the service, as well as representatives from other Local Orthodox Churches.

The choir, under the direction of Vladimir Krassovsky, and the choir of the clergy of the diocese performed the hymns deeply and movingly. Their joint singing became a true prayerful elevation that penetrated the hearts of all the worshipers. On this evening, the believers honored the memory of St John — the heavenly patron of San Francisco — with special reverence and heartfelt warmth. Their prayers resonated as an expression of deep gratitude and spiritual connection to the legacy of God's servant, whose deeds and holiness are forever etched in the history of the Orthodox Church on American soil.

On the following morning, Saturday, July 5, a Divine Liturgy was celebrated. After the service, a solemn procession was held around the cathedral with the relics of St John. The festive day concluded with a brotherly meal prepared with love by the cathedral sisterhood.

It is gratifying to note that this year the celebration gathered a record number of pilgrims and guests from all corners of America and other countries since the COVID pandemic. Thousands of hearts united in prayer to St John — the fervent intercessor, shepherd, and prayer warrior for the entire Orthodox world.

Western American Diocese