Did you know that the St. Peter the Apostle Greek Orthodox Church in the Bronx wasn’t always located where it stands today? Its story begins as a small chapel. It was a chapel of Saint Anargyroi in Manhattan. The congregation grew rapidly. It eventually separated to become its own parish. This marked a significant turning point. Christos Xodris became the first Parish Council President. A testament to the community’s initial struggles. The early services were held in the cafeteria of Saint John’s Catholic School. Father Halkias a retired priest served as the first priest. He laid the foundation for the church’s success despite being part-time. A Greek school was established soon after. Eydozia Levesano directed it for many years.
The need for a permanent home became clear in 1995. The church purchased its current property. It included a house which was later demolished. Plans were made for a Byzantine style church. A fundraising campaign supported the construction. Building permits were obtained after addressing previous errors. The construction finally culminated in the church opening in 2012. This wasn’t just the completion of a building. It marked a realization of a dream. It was a symbol of the community’s perseverance and faith.
Today the St. Peter the Apostle Greek Orthodox Church stands proudly. The large-scale iconography program adds to its beauty. The lower level named the Steve Zevoudis Hall serves as a community center. It houses a kitchen classrooms and service rooms. It’s a vibrant hub for the community’s activities including the continuation of the afternoon Greek school. This building stands as a lasting legacy. It is a place of worship. It is a testament to the dedication of those who built it. It stands as a beacon of Greek Orthodox faith in the Bronx. It is a place of community. A place of history. A place of enduring faith.