Founded in 1901, Annunciation/Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church, the sixth-oldest Greek Orthodox parish in the United States, marked an important milestone on Sunday, September 28. Families spanning four generations gathered in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, for the grand opening of the parish’s extensively renovated campus, created to serve the Orthodox faithful for decades to come.
The day began with Divine Liturgy and concluded with Rev. Fr. John L. Johns leading a blessing service and ribbon cutting. Children exploring new classrooms alongside grandparents who have worshiped here for a lifetime captured the continuity of faith that has defined this parish for 124 years.
First Parish in Philadelphia
Annunciation holds the distinction of being Philadelphia’s first Greek Orthodox parish. Greek immigrants established their spiritual roots in the late 1870s, formally organizing the community in 1901 with the Evangelismos Church at 745 South 12th Street.
Under the authority of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Annunciation became the foundation of Orthodoxy in Philadelphia. As the community grew, new parishes such as St. Demetrios in Upper Darby were established. In the 1960s, Annunciation itself moved to Elkins Park, where construction of the current church began in 1968.
Byzantine Architecture
The Elkins Park church is widely recognized as one of the finest examples of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture in North America. Designed by Demetrios Siderakis, it recreates 11th-century Byzantine tradition with modern engineering. Marble from Greece forms the altar and columns, while the iconostasis was crafted by sculptor Nicholas Ikaris.
Iconography by George Fillipakis of New York and George Gleatas of Athens immerses parishioners in the continuity of Byzantine worship. Elements from the original Whitaker estate were preserved, blending American history with Greek Orthodox heritage.
Day of Celebration
After Divine Liturgy, Fr. Johns led the congregation through the newly renovated facilities, offering prayers of blessing. Parish council members, the Philoptochos Society, and longtime families participated in the ribbon cutting. A highlight came as families entered the updated educational spaces together, creating a living link between the founders of 1901 and today’s generation.
Modern Renovations
The project equips Annunciation for contemporary parish life while honoring Orthodox tradition. Modern classrooms with climate control and high-speed internet support education, while flexible spaces host youth programs and Greek dance. A dedicated Philoptochos meeting room recognizes the leadership of parish women, and barrier-free entryways with updated facilities ensure full accessibility for all.
Future Vision
The timing of the renovation comes as the parish approaches its 125th anniversary in 2026. Parish leadership emphasizes that these improvements are more than bricks and mortar. They strengthen ministries, expand youth education, and ensure Annunciation remains a welcoming spiritual and cultural home for Greek Orthodox families in Philadelphia well into the future.
Watch the Celebration
The joy of the day was captured on video, including moments from the Divine Liturgy, blessing, ribbon cutting, and parish fellowship. Watch the highlights of the Annunciation Elkins Park grand opening here: