Many thanks for the replies...I am reporting back in!
Well, the book store was absolutely marvelous but I simply would have loved more time in it!
Son got me there later than I hoped for, it was a pouring wet day, and the young man behind the counter wanted to close early...so I feasted as quickly as I could and left with goodies. The books on icons were few- but the ones they had were amazing.
The cathedral is not open to the public until around an hour before the services start, so you can't just go anytime. I had to hang around for a couple of hours so it was off to a coffee shop for a bit....I got back in time for the beginning of the Moleban by ST John's relics, which is what I wanted. Thanks for the tip on the holy oil.
I tried to explain that I was a visitor to the gentleman behind the counter....he did not understand me, so I gave up and just got the oil. No one spoke or said hello.....strange......
Since I have only attended services in a small chapel with large windows...I was not prepared for how dark and large the interior of the cathedral would be especially when just lighted by the candles, it was quite overpoweringly beautiful. The darkness made it seem very holy, the chanting was beautiful. I am used to seeing my monks in their black robes...but here here were many priests in beautiful vestments. I lit candles and venerated the relics of St John clutching my small gifts just laying them on the glass case while I prayed. It was a very moving and respectful Moleban (what is the meaning/significance of that word...?).
Then I moved around to venerate and light some candles at the icons of Theotokos and others...
I was not prepared at all for what happened next. They turned the lights up!
Gold and Glory - heaven on earth indeed! There are just no words to describe that glorious interior!
It is still shining in my mind....oh the Beauty of it!
Sadly I could not stay for the Vespers service....as my son and girlfriend had my Birthday dinner reservations and I had to go. Of course you all know this was the HIGHLIGHT of my day!