Saint Sophia Cathedral

Church and Cathedral History

This parish was established in 1904 by newly arrived Greek immigrants. After worshipping in rented or makeshift quarters, the community built its own church at 8th and L Sts., N.W., which was completed and dedicated in 1924, remaining there until moving to this site, which was purchased in 1943. Ground breaking and foundation stone laying occurred on September 25, 1951. The building, designed by architect Archie Protopapas of New York City was ready for occupancy on February 19, 1955. The first service was celebrated on February 20, 1955. The cornerstone was laid by President Dwight D. Eisenhower with His Eminence Michael, Archbishop of North and South America, officiating on September 30, 1956. Saint Sophia was elevated to the status of a cathedral on February 18, 1955 and consecrated on May 10, 2015.