THE CATHEDRAL
Archbishop VALERIAN (Trifa) oversaw the relocation of the parish to suburban Southfield from Detroit’s near eastside, where the original Byzantine style church (consecrated in 1917) stood at the corner of Russell & Hancock Streets.  In 1961 the consecration of the beautiful current temple, built by parishioner-contractor Stefan Petcu, took place.  Architect Haralamb Georgescu was inspired by the traditional Romanian architectural styles of Northeast Romania (Bucovina), familiar to many of the parishioners during that period.

A unique feature, typical of St George’s counterparts in Romania, is the band of [54] mosaic icons circling the exterior of the structure with holy figures from the history of our salvation in Jesus Christ.  Most are the work of Ilie Hasigan.

Through the main doors, and passing under the 10 ft high mosaic of the soldier Patron, the Great Martyr George (+303) created by Cristian Samoila, we reverently enter into the House of God.  A marble font (in the baptistry) to the right reminds us that it is in the life-giving water of Baptism -- the first of the seven Mysteries/ Sacraments of the Church, that Orthodox Christians are united to Jesus Christ.  They are "born again" through water and the Holy Spirit to begin their life in the Church, an earthly pilgrimage to eternal life.

The nave, whose walls were embellished with Byzantine iconography by Ioannis Terzis,  is where the Church on earth is united with our fellow citizens in heaven: the Birthgiver of God and Ever-virgin Mary, the prophets, martyrs, apostles, holy men, women and children, rich and poor; archangels, etc.  Together we praise our on eternal God who has revealed himself as three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Also in the nave, we see: the "Cathedra" (Throne) of the Ruling Hierarch; the elaborate Tomb, crafted by parishioner Vasile Simian, in which the crucified Lord is buried on Holy Friday; the Cantor’s stand; etc.  The side apses or "choirs" developed from the ancient practice of antiphonal singing.  [Note: All worship has the form of a dialogue between the clergy and the faithful, who are led either by cantor or choir.]  Although pews have been adopted, sitting is not customary.  Orthodox Christians usually stand, kneel or prostrate themselves in God’s presence during worship.

Alexandru Seceni carved the beautiful walnut iconostas (screen of icons) and created its colorful, wood-burned icons that we face to the East.  Through its opened Royal Doors the Lord leads us -- in the person of the hierarch/priest, into the Sanctuary or "Holy of Holies", to the Throne of God.  From this Holy [Altar] Table he offers his precious Body and Blood in the Eucharistic service, the Divine Liturgy. God and man are united in Holy Communion.

OFFICES & EDUCATION WING
An administration-education building is adjacent to the Cathedral. This area encompasses the Office of the Dean, Parish Secretary and Financial Office, a small lobby, a room for the young adults (AROY) / Choir rehearsal space, and classrooms for the educational programs of our children. An interesting feature of the main hallway is a display of historical photographs highlighting events and organizations in the parish's history.

THE CULTURAL CENTER / BANQUET FACILITY
The southern end of the complex comprises the Cathedral Cultural Center.  A major expansion and renovation of the CCC was done in 1986, resulting in the space we have today, along with subsequent upgrades and decorative additions. Two halls, the large "St George" and adjacent "Metes" Halls can accommodate up to 500 guests when combined. The facility is used for various social gatherings of the parish and Romanian community, and is available to the public for rental. Private affairs such as meetings, wedding and baptism receptions, memorials, dances, parties, luncheons, etc are examples of some of the events held. 

Off the main lobby is a library / conference room. Recently this space was embellished with displays of religious vestments, costumes and cultural artifacts, as well as some historic pieces from the parish's history.