We call Grace Cathedral a house of prayer for all people, without exception.
All kinds of people walk through our doors every day, and all are welcome. Some come to participate in worship services, to walk the labyrinths, to seek a peaceful place, or to pray.
Famed as a destination for visitors from all over the world, the cathedral is known for its striking architecture, stained glass, singular collection of art, Interfaith AIDS Chapel -- and for being home to a vibrant and diverse congregation.
Cathedral Hours
Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday, 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday, 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
On cathedral holidays, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
For more information contact the Office of the Congregation at (415) 749-6344, or e-mail .
History
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 church-goer and visitor alike.
The cathedral Close or block was completed in 1995 with a new front stairway, courtyard Chapter House, and Cathedral School addition.
Visit History & the Arts for articles on Cathedral history.