On the territory of Moscow, in the very center, a unique building was built - the Anglican Cathedral of St. Andrew. The beginning of religious activity in Russia by church clergymen dates back to the 16th century. In the 30s of the XIX century, a small chapel was erected in the heart of the capital, on the site of which, after almost 60 years, the Anglican Cathedral of St. Andrew was built.
Anglican Church - an architectural masterpiece
1884 - it was at this time that the construction of a religious building was completed. The building was executed in Victorian style by the then- unknown architect Richard Neal Freeman. There is no objective information about how the construction of the church went. However, there is an opinion that Freeman did not personally participate in the construction of an architectural masterpiece. He sold his sketches and drawings, according to which the Anglican Cathedral of St. Andrew was built on the territory of Russia. Moscow, thus, granted glory to the English architect.
Interesting information about the Anglican Cathedral in Moscow
The church, which was named in honor of St. Andrew, stands out for its excellent acoustics indoors. It's all about the wooden ceiling, the construction of which was given increased attention. In 1885, a unique organ was installed in the construction of the cathedral, which recreated pure sounds.
The Soviet period, when religious persecutions were carried out, became a new era in the history of the Church of England. So, in the 1920s, the organization was closed. The building was supposed to make many small communal rooms. However, it was impossible to build comfortable housing on the territory of the cathedral, so the poorest residents of Moscow were resettled here.
After the owners of the rooms were moved to more comfortable houses, the building passed under the auspices of the recording studio "Melody". Since 1960, the building has been recording musical works, including through symphony orchestras.
St. Andrew's Anglican Cathedral began to carry out its religious activities only in 1991, when the USSR was on the verge of collapse. Already in the new Russian state, in 1993, a regular pastor, Chad Koussmaker, appeared at the Church of England, who preached to his flock.
How are the sermons in the Anglican Cathedral?
The uniqueness of the religious organization lies not only in the architectural research of the building, but also in the fact that all the sermons take place in English. Residents of New Zealand, Great Britain, Scotland, Kenya, South Sudan, Russia and other countries visit the St. Andrew’s Anglican Cathedral every Sunday. Preaching tickets are sold to everyone. Staying in the service allows not only to enjoy the refined interior of the church, but also to bring practical benefits in improving the level of English proficiency.
Concert of live music is of great interest among residents of Moscow. The beautiful motifs of organ and classical music allow visitors to relax mentally from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Everyone can get a spiritual impression, regardless of nationality or religion.
Social Activities of the Anglican Church
Religious sermons are only an insignificant part of the activity that priests perform. The church pays great attention to social projects. St. Andrew's Anglican Cathedral is popular for its educational center, which anyone can visit. The unique library is replete with an abundance of Orthodox books.
In addition, it is on the territory of the religious organization that the society of anonymous alcoholics is located. English-speaking citizens who suffer from this problem can absolutely free of charge turn to church ministers for help.
Russian Orphan Opportunity Fund is an organization that provides all kinds of support to the Church of England. Mutual cooperation between the two associations is aimed at helping orphanages and their pupils.
Where is the Anglican Cathedral located?
St. Andrew's Anglican Cathedral is located in the central part of the Russian capital. Voznesensky Lane, Building 8 - Permanent address of a religious organization. In close proximity to the cathedral is the theater. Mayakovsky, Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Embassy of Ukraine. In addition, on a nearby street there is a cozy hotel, cafes and restaurants.
You can get to the Anglican Cathedral by public transport. In the immediate vicinity are three large metro stations. The metro station Arbatskaya is 760 m, Okhotny Ryad 700 m, Alexander Garden 690 m.
Anglican Cathedral - an amazing corner of medieval England, located in Russia. Those who have been indoors compare it to Hogwarts, where everything is saturated with bewitching magic. The amazing atmosphere of coziness and comfort, the unique architecture of the building, the refined interior and the rich cultural program are what awaits every visitor at any time.