Assumption of the Theotokos Metropolis Cathedral of Denver — Attraction in Glendale

During a random Thursday in Great Lent when I was experiencing tremendous personal difficulties, my soul thirsted for sanctuary at an Orthodox church. And being as Lenten Thursdays are usually sparse as far as services are concerned, I decided to drive across town in some desperation just to listen in on a choir rehearsal taking place at Assumption Cathedral.

I approached one of the singers outside with a season-appropriate greeting, introduced myself as a parishioner from a local OCA parish, and asked if it would be alright for me to just sit down, out of the way, and to let the music wash over me after such a hard day. She didn't think it would be a problem at all and warmly permitted me entrance, while emphasizing that I am also welcome to attend all their holy week services that were upcoming. I am tremendously grateful for the mercy she showed me; and her hospitality provided exactly the sort of soothing balm my soul needed after the trials I had endured throughout the day.

But after only a few minutes, as I sat in humble and reverent silence, the soft glow of the low lights gently reflecting off the icons and mosaic, with the choral melodies just beginning to penetrate my being; my nascent peace was sorrowfully broken when a genteel and elderly man who introduced himself as Doctor Jim, the emeritus choir director, requested I depart, citing vague security concerns.

As he escorted me to the north door, making me feel like a vagabond, we conversed about a multitude of Orthodox subjects and persons, wherein I did everything I could to demonstrate that I am who I said I am—a fellow Orthodox sojourner, a spiritual neighbor, a communicant from the same chalice, one like himself and, therefore, certainly no risk to him or anyone else within, being my very own brethren in the apostolic faith. But nevertheless, he apologized and insisted that he was merely enforcing the rules.

I felt like I had been transported back to the first week of Great Lent, facing expulsion from paradise right along with Adam—except my only transgression this particular day was being present to implore God's mercy and healing. In fairness, Doctor Jim was really very diplomatic and polite as far as bouncers are concerned. But I was still expelled from Jerusalem back to Jericho, my wounds untended, and left spiritually half dead. Instead of bandaging my wounds, like the Divine Physician with the oil and wine of oikonomia; this particular physician, Doctor Jim, gently closed the door in my face, depriving me of the tree of life, and literally abandoning me to the...

Assumption of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church is a window into the deep and beautiful traditions of Eastern Orthodoxy. Whether you are Orthodox yourself or simply a visitor seeking beauty, peace, or historical insight, this place offers a great experience for anyone who walks through its doors.

When you step in, your eyes are drawn upward to the soaring dome and intricate iconography—richly colored frescoes and gold-leafed icons that tell the story of the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary (Theotokos), and the saints of the Orthodox tradition. Visited during the Greek festival and...

Attended the final day of the 2022 Greek Festival. Wonderful food, fabulous merchandise, music and dancing, a fun-filled day for everyone. I went with the family and we all enjoyed it. I had been inside the church itself for my brother's wedding and it's absolutely exquisite. Even from the outside, the building is a marvel of engineering, and a beautiful sight along Alameda Avenue. If you missed the Festival this year, make plans to attend next...