Cleveland Cathedral Forges Ahead One Year After Devastating Fire

CLEVELAND, OH [DOM] – Wednesday, May 28 marked the first anniversary of the devastating fire that took place at the historic St. Theodosius Cathedral, Cleveland, OH. The fire broke out in the afternoon on May 28, 2024. Local fire crews began to fight put out the fire in an effort to save the temple.

Archpriest Jan Cizmar, Cathedral Dean, was recently interviewed by a local news organization marking the anniversary. Fr. Jan also offered an update to the restoration efforts.

Donations are needed and can be made by the parish website.

I hope this message finds you well and that you’ve had a wonderful week. I’m happy to share an update on our church restoration efforts. We have officially begun initial work, which includes mold remediation and A/C system removal. This phase is expected to be completed within 7-10 days, preparing the way for the first of four phases of restoration focused on the roof and domes. This phase is known as DR #1, and you can find the cost and more information here. This document shows the original proposal, as well as the work and cost approved by insurance.

The restoration process is divided into five stages (see below), each of which was discussed in greater detail during our workshop meetings. Last Friday, we discussed DR #4; you can find the meeting agenda here. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or comments.

I frequently receive questions about our financial situation and our ability to cover the full cost of the restoration. This is understandable, as you all are deeply invested in this project and eager for our community to return to the cathedral. We are committed to continuing the 130-year legacy of our parish, the oldest Orthodox church in Cleveland and the oldest Orthodox parish in Ohio. We will do everything possible to achieve this goal and keep the legacy of faith of our ancestors.

The current estimated cost of the project is approximately $15 million. Several factors could still impact the restoration costs. Many other factors must be considered, and careful calculations are essential to ensure the project’s success.

Design Release #1, Primary Structure Restoration
Design Release #2, Domes Framing Restoration
Design Release #3, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and Electrical Restoration
Design Release #4, General Trades Roofing
Design Release #5, Interior Restoration

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