Cherry Hill, NJ – On Sunday, March 3, after the divine liturgy, the faithful of the Greek Orthodox community of St. Thomas gathered at the site of the future campanile for the groundbreaking ceremony. The event was blessed by the Rev. Christoforos and supported by the members of the Parish Council. The council was led by its President, Mr. Tasos Efstratiades, who is also serving as the volunteer Project Manager of the work.
The traditional first spade turn was performed by many of the young people present, as well as by several of the original founders of the St. Thomas church, including Mr. and Mrs. George Kousoulis and Mr. George Burlotos.
The Greek Orthodox Church of St. Thomas has started a major project to update the 1967 building to match the traditional Byzantine Orthodox architectural style. The renovations are extensive and include adding a cupola (Greek: τρούλο) to the octagonal roof and a campanile (Greek: καμπαναριό) on the side of the church.
Additionally, the outer perimeter of the building’s wall will be finished with stone pavers to match the already completed portico. An architectural rendering shows the final look of the building once the project is finished. The project is expected to be completed by this fall, just in time for the Agora (Greek Food Festival).