Restoration work is progressing at Saint Theodosius Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland, which was severely damaged by a fire in May 2024. Several copper domes have already been returned to the roof, and the parish hopes to complete the main structural work and resume services inside the cathedral by Easter 2027.

The fire broke out on May 28, 2024, during work on one of the cathedral’s copper domes. The blaze destroyed part of the roof and seriously damaged the building’s upper walls. Initial concerns that the structure might have to be demolished were ultimately dispelled, and the cathedral was preserved.

After the damaged domes were dismantled, extensive restoration work began. Two additional smaller domes were installed on the roof in September, according to the parish’s social media page. Several domes still need to be restored, while one will have to be entirely rebuilt after being destroyed during firefighting operations.

The main focus is currently on the roof. Much of the supporting structure has been completed, protective layers have been installed and most of the roof has been made watertight. Specialists are also repairing the bases of the domes and assessing the condition of the interior plaster.

Cathedral rector Father Jan Czyżmar compared the restoration process to the biblical account of creation, emphasizing that the work is proceeding step by step. He said parishioners can already see significant progress and hope to gather inside the cathedral again for Easter. The parish continues to raise funds for the final stages of the reconstruction, with the restoration of the largest dome identified as the main remaining task.

Fire at St.Theodosius cathedral, 2024

The cathedral’s history has been connected with Russia since the late 19th century. The parish received support from the Russian Missionary Fund, established during the reign of Emperor Nicholas II. Local historians also cite a version that the emperor personally donated to the project, although there is no conclusive documentary evidence confirming it.

Construction of Saint Theodosius Cathedral began in 1911 according to a design modeled on Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. The building was constructed in the shape of a cross and originally crowned with 13 crosses and domes, representing Christ and the 12 Apostles.

The foundation stone was laid on September 23, 1911, and the cathedral was consecrated the following year.

Over the decades, the church has undergone several renovation campaigns. Its domes were covered with new copper in the 1950s, and new crosses were installed. The walls were decorated with frescoes by the prominent Russian artist Andrei Bitsenko, which have since been restored several times.

The cathedral has also played a role in the history of Orthodoxy in North America. Pan-Orthodox councils were held there in 1936 and 1946.