“Remembered but not forgotten.” That’s what I always think of when I come here to Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Cemetery. This serene final resting place is part of the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. It represents faith, community, and heritage.
Let’s delve into the story of this sacred ground. The need for a third Greek Orthodox Church grew in Baltimore’s suburbs. Archbishop Iakovos suggested a new church. Young people were called to lay its foundation. Dedicated stewards like Christopher Makres sought interest. They wanted to preserve their religious and cultural heritage.
In 1969, they agreed to found a church. The Steering Committee began laying the foundation. Their humble beginnings stemmed from dedication. In 1970, a pledge drive started. Signatures from 102 families pledged over $100,000 within 30 days. An interim Parish Council was elected. The Archdiocese granted their Ecclesiastical Charter on May 15, 1970.
The Greek Language School started in October 1970. Mr. Sotirios Mitilineos was the teacher. Reverend Father Sam Kalamaras became the first priest in November 1970. The first Divine Liturgy was celebrated at Cromwell Valley Elementary School on November 29, 1970. Imagine their joy. They acquired a priest and held their first service.
The Church School began in January 1971. Thomas Heath was superintendent. Parkville Senior High School served as their humble home. Members worked hard each week. They packed and unpacked necessities. These items included utensils, cloths, icons, and candles. Area churches offered their facilities. These included Catholic, Protestant, and Episcopal churches.
“The Spirit” was inaugurated by Mr. John L. Sitaras. It became a documented history source. Mrs. Katherine Strakes started “Hospitality Teas.” Several members searched for land. Jack and Helen Foudos found an ad. The property on Cub Hill Road was approved in 1971. It cost $90,000.
Father Sam Kalamaras departed in August 1971. Reverend Doctor Demetrios Constantelos served the parish almost every Sunday. In the summer of 1972, Reverend Doctor Sophocles Sophocles served. The first liturgy on their property was held in open air. A picnic followed this service.
Reverend Father Ernest Arambiges arrived in September 1972. He led the community. The Building Committee formed in October 1972. They planned the complex on Cub Hill Road. Leonard S. Friedman was selected as the architect.
Archbishop Iakovos visited the parish in May 1973. The first Grecian Festivals occurred in October 1973. In February 1974, the Suburban Players performed “Fiddler on the Roof.” On May 11, 1974, the church became Saint Demetrios. Ground-breaking took place in the rain. Bishop Silas presented the Ecclesiastical Charter in October 1974.
The first mortgage on the land was paid off. Construction began in February 1975. A “Gala Concert” with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra was held in March 1975. The old farmhouse was burned on September 4, 1975. The first Easter was celebrated in their building.
The final Divine Liturgy at Parkville Senior High School occurred on January 4, 1976. Opening Day services were held at the Saint Demetrios Educational Wing Chapel. Peter Alatzas and Angelo Toutsis opened the doors. The first Saint Demetrios Church Award was presented to Mr. John L. Sitaras.
The Saint Demetrios Cemetery was dedicated on June 2, 1985. This completed a significant chapter. This sacred space embodies faith, perseverance, and community. It reminds us of the journey of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. Here lies a testament to their enduring legacy. May their memories be eternal.