Upper Darby, PA – This past week, St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby held a Thyranoixia—a ceremonial opening of the church doors. Though the parish first opened its doors in 1965, the community came together once again, 47 years later, to mark a new chapter with the same sacred tradition. Nearly 300 parishioners gathered for the blessing of the church’s newly completed front entrance.
The event paused ongoing construction, part of a three-month facade project that has transformed the face of the church. The redesign combines Tennessee limestone, Honduran mahogany, and the influence of Byzantine architecture—brought to life by skilled Greek craftsmen. At the center of the renovation is a rare addition: a Proskynitarion, an exterior shrine and icon stand meant for quiet prayer before entering the church. Common in villages across Greece, it’s an uncommon sight in the United States, and to date, there appears to be no other like it at any Greek Orthodox church in the Philadelphia region.
Nearby, another unique element sets St. Demetrios apart—the Pontian monument located by the entrance to the Greek school and gym. Dedicated to the memory of those lost in the genocide of the Pontian Greeks in Eastern Turkey, the monument is believed to be the only one of its kind in North America. For many in the local community, it serves as a deeply personal reminder of their history and heritage.
The Thyranoixia comes at a time of renewed growth for the parish. After years of decline, St. Demetrios is seeing a resurgence, with family membership rising from an estimated 135 to 275 families—an increase of more than 50 percent. With new families joining, new leadership stepping forward, and renewed momentum, the community is entering a period of expansion and hope.
The new doors are more than an architectural upgrade—they’re a symbol of welcome, of remembrance, and of looking ahead with faith and purpose.
