St. Michael’s Cathedral has been the center of attention in Sitka since it was built in the middle of the downtown street in the 1840s.
The Russian Orthodox church, with its onion dome, bells and spire topped by a gold Russian cross outside, its collection of religious and historical archives inside, dates to the days of the Russian American Company that was here from the early 1800s until 1867. The Russians, under the direction of Bishop Innocent (Ivan Veniaminov), laid the cornerstone of the church in 1844 and dedicated it on Nov. 20, 1848.
That building burned on Jan. 2, 1966, in a devastating fire that took much of downtown Sitka. Thanks to residents who rushed to the rescue, many of the church’s treasures – including artwork and icons from its earliest days – were saved as the flames spread.
With donations collected from around the country as well as Sitka, a near-duplicate of the original St. Michael’s Cathedral was built – but this time using fire-resistant materials.
Ground was broken for reconstruction June 8, 1967, and on Dec. 5, 1972, the steeple was raised into place. The new cathedral was consecrated on Nov. 20, 1976, and the new bells on April 3, 1977.
The National Park Service designated the cathedral as a National Historic Monument in 1962, and listed it on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
In 2010 problems of age and safety were tended to in the bell tower, ringing techniques were passed on to a new generation, and now the bells continue to peal for holy days, funerals and other church occasions.
Through December and until after “Russian Christmas” on Jan. 7, a Christmas tree has been set up in front of the cathedral for the whole community to enjoy. (The Orthodox Church follows the Julian Calendar, rather than the Gregorian, giving Sitkans not only two Christmases but two Easters.)
During the summer, visitors are welcome at the church; hours are extended on large cruise ship days, with schedule information posted at the church door A donation is requested.
Services are 9 a.m. Sundays, 5 p.m. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, 5 p.m. Thursday and 5 p.m. Saturday.
Those needing more information may call 747-8120 or go to http//stmichaelcathedral.org.
The church’s Archangel Michael Icon and Gift Store is a few steps away from the cathedral, across Lincoln Street. It offers icons, books and gifts.
