Grace Cathedral Reviews and Photos, San Francisco

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Grace Cathedral

December 30, 2007
Rated 5 of 5 by dlmcn from Stockton, California

At the top of Nob Hill sits one of the most beautiful sights in the country. It is Grace Cathedral, the diocesan church for the Episcopal Diocese of California. The cathedral is massive and its large front steps may seem intimidating, but anyone and everyone is welcome to explore the treasures inside. The central front doors rival those of Europe and the rose window above the entrance leaves one speechless. Modern stained glass windows line both sides of the nave, depicting saints of the church and remarkable figures of secular history. In the heart of such a busy city, the cathedral offers a respite of cool silence and peace.

It is not only an architectural gem, but a busy congregation made up of people from all walks of life. It's a vibrant and exciting place to worship and learn. Their weekly and monthly schedules feature concerts, lectures, and other presentations from renowned experts including the like of Jane Goodall and General Abizaid. Check out times and dates at gracecathedral.org

From journal The City by the Bay

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Grace Cathedral

April 21, 2006
Rated 5 of 5 by kustom57 from Turlock, California

Grace Cathedral is the daughter of historic Grace Church. The first little chapel was built in the gold rush year of 1849, and the imposing third church, for a time called Grace "Cathedral," was destroyed in the fire following the 1906 earthquake. The railroad baron/banker Crocker family gave their ruined Nob Hill property for a diocesan cathedral, which took its name and founding congregation from the nearby parish.

Dean J. Wilmer Gresham nurtured the young cathedral, and work began on the present structure in 1928. Designed in French Gothic style by Lewis Hobart, it was completed in 1964 as the third-largest Episcopal cathedral in the nation.

Famed for its Ghiberti doors ("The Gates of Paradise"), labyrinths, varied stained glass, and medieval and contemporary furnishings, as well as its carillon, organs, and choir, the Cathedral has become an international pilgrimage center for many people, christian or not.

The cathedral close, or block, was completed in 1995 with a new front stairway, courtyard Chapter House, and Cathedral School addition.

Inside and outside the cathedral, one of the biggest draws is the labyrinths upon the ground. They are meant to be a spiritual journey. Shoes are required to be removed before walking the indoor labyrinth.

The stained glass windows of the cathedral were designed by Charles Connick, and installed in 1930.

The front doors of the cathedral are called the Doors of Paradise and tell the story of the Old Testament.

If you get a chance, stop by on a Sunday even if you are a non-Christian to get a chance to hear the magnificent organ and choir. It is amazing!

I would recommend this to most travellers, with the exception of families with unruly children. Grace Cathedral is a quiet place, and it is rude to let children spoil the atmosphere.

From journal San Francisco on a Budget