St. John Cathedral, Catholic cathedral in Fresno, United States

St. John Cathedral is a church built in Gothic Revival style, recognizable by its red brick walls, two square towers topped with spires, and a prominent rose window centered above three entrance doors. The structure combines both Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements that define its distinctive appearance.

Catholics in Fresno traveled to Visalia for Mass until 1878, when fundraising began for a church; the Central Pacific Railroad donated two lots on M Street. The brick church, with a 90-foot steeple, was completed in 1880 and dedicated by Bishop Francisco Mora y Borrell on May 21, 1882. After Easter services on March 30, 1902, the old church was demolished; the cornerstone of the new one was laid that August, and Archbishop George Montgomery dedicated it on June 7, 1903.

The cathedral serves as a spiritual center for Catholics from different cultural backgrounds across the region. Visitors notice the mix of English and Spanish-language services that reflect the diverse communities in California's Central Valley.

The cathedral is easy to find on Mariposa Street in Fresno, with the three main doors clearly visible from the street. Services are held regularly throughout the week, so check ahead to find times that work for your visit.

In April 2019 a man threatened the priests and bishop, then smashed stained-glass windows and statues outside, causing $25,000 in damage; he was arrested. In November 2019 the parish filed plans with the city for an iron fence around the cathedral for security.