“Welcome one another” echoes within these walls. These words from Romans encapsulate the spirit of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church. I invite you to step inside this Brooklyn landmark. We will discover its history and its impact on the community.
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church began with a small group of dedicated men in 1956. Seven visionaries met in a fur shop. They saw a need for a Greek Orthodox Church in Bay Ridge. They understood the area had many Greek Orthodox Christians. These families lacked a spiritual center. The church would become the heart of Hellenic culture. It would pass Greek heritage to future generations.
These founding fathers included John Apostolakis. Constantine Butsikares also joined. Alex Coufos was present. Costis Generalis contributed. Angelo Kappakas helped shape the vision. Emile Murat provided insights. Gus Nicholas completed the group.
The first general meeting occurred on December 11, 1956. Forty residents discussed the need. They unanimously agreed to expedite the project. Many volunteered their services to Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church. The temporary committee expanded to 27 members. This larger group contacted the archdiocese. They obtained Archbishop Michael’s consent and blessing.
The ecclesiastical authorization was signed on November 29, 1957. It was filed with Kings County on January 21, 1958. The certificate named the 27 individuals as elected trustees. They signed on behalf of the new corporation. The first parish council was elected on December 17, 1957. One major achievement was purchasing land at 76th Street and Colonial Road. This was intended as the site for the new church.
In 1959, a property at 84th Street and Ridge Boulevard became available. It was purchased for $95,000. This property had a large 15-room house. It was used for meeting rooms. The 76th Street property was sold. It provided a $10,000 profit for the building fund. The annual Christmas dance and fund appeal started in 1959. The Vames Family donated the use of their Hamilton House Banquet Hall.
On November 9, 1963, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church bought property at 83rd Street and Ridge Boulevard. The purchase cost $60,000. The 14-room house served as a meeting place. It was also a chapel. It provided living quarters for Father Basil Gregory and his family.
1964 was a pivotal year for Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church. Father Basil Gregory was assigned as priest in August 1964. The first liturgy occurred on September 6, 1964. Groundbreaking ceremonies took place on September 26, 1964. Archbishop Iakovos officiated. Mr. W. Chirgotis was hired as the architect. The building contract was awarded to DiGiovanni and Sons for $375,000.
Father Basil found a place for regular services. The Union Church allowed them to use their facilities. The first liturgy had at least 250 people. The all-male choir was magnificent. Subsequent services were held in the Union Church auditorium.
On September 26, 1964, Archbishop Iakovos broke ground for the new church. A banquet was held at the Hotel Gregory. The Archbishop raised $80,000 in new pledges. Mr. Gus Nicholas led the project.
In December 1964, the building contract was awarded. The church secured a $250,000 mortgage. Thirty-nine members personally guaranteed the loan. Their faith and determination built the church.
In 1965, construction began. Ballots were sent out to name the church. The majority voted for Holy Cross. Construction was completed in March 1966. The first vesper service was held on March 12, 1966. The official opening was on March 13, 1966.
Palm Sunday services in 1967 were officiated by Archbishop Iakovos. It was televised on CBS. In May 1967, Father Gregory was needed full-time by the Archdiocese. Father Charles Sarelis took over on August 1, 1967.
In 1968, the feast day of the church was celebrated at the 69th Street pier. Father Sarelis promoted the idea. Over 1,200 people attended. The 69th Street pier was condemned in 1970.
Today, Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center continues the church’s mission. It serves New York families in need. It provides holistic care. Midnight Runs deliver food to the homeless. Outreach on the Go delivers food to the elderly.
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church continues to welcome all. It remains a beacon of faith. Its history is a testament to community. Its future is bright.