Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral

Beneath the expansive dome of the Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral, a story unfolds. A story of faith, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit of the Russian Orthodox community in Chicago. The Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral stands as a testament to their dedication, a beacon of hope amidst the bustling city. The cathedral’s journey began in 1949, in a modest two-story house on West Pierce Avenue. The first floor served as the church, the second as the rectory. It was a humble beginning, but it was a start. The parishioners, though few, were united in their faith. A gift from Prince Beloselsky and the generosity of others had made this possible. An icon of the Protection of the Mother of God, sent by Archbishop Vitaly, became a cherished relic. The inscription on the icon read, “Be not afraid little flock, for through His grace God has given you a church.” This message resonated deeply within the community. In 1958, the growing congregation acquired a new building. It had served as both a Protestant church and a synagogue before becoming the new home of the Holy Virgin Protection community. Donations and tireless efforts transformed the building. Prince Beloselsky once again extended his generosity, funding the iconstasis. The church was consecrated in 1964. As the years passed, the Holy Virgin Protection community continued to grow, eventually outgrowing its Chicago location. The neighborhood changed, parking became scarce, and acts of vandalism plagued the church. The dream of a new cathedral began to take shape. In 1990, a 2.5-acre site in Des Plaines, a suburb of Chicago, was purchased. The property included a house and garden. The purchase presented a challenge. The parish had $150,000, far less than the $240,000 purchase price. A parish meeting, filled with passionate discussion, resulted in a collective decision to move forward with the project. Funds were raised, repairs were made to the existing house, and Archbishop Alyppy moved in. Construction of the new Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral began in 1991. It wasn’t an easy process. Securing permission for the dome, which exceeded local height restrictions, proved challenging. Archbishop Alyppy’s persistence finally prevailed. The completed cathedral earned an award for its beauty, a testament to the community’s vision and hard work. Today, the Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in Des Plaines stands as a symbol of resilience and faith. It’s a place where the traditions of ancient Russian Orthodoxy are preserved, and where the community continues to thrive.