St. Thomas Orthodox Church

In 1929, a small group of Albanian immigrants gathered in a Farmington Hills home. They founded the St. Thomas Orthodox Church community. This marked the beginning of a journey filled with faith, perseverance, and growth. St. Thomas Orthodox Church stands today as a testament to their unwavering spirit. The church has seen many changes over the years. It started in a humble home. Then it moved to its first building in 1943 on 14th Street. Later, it relocated to Oakman Boulevard in 1956. The current structure in Farmington Hills represents the third home of St. Thomas Orthodox Church. The congregation outgrew its previous locations. Each move symbolized a renewed commitment to preserving their Orthodox Christian faith. St. Thomas Orthodox Church prides itself on being a welcoming place. It embraces not only descendants of the original Albanian founders, but also new immigrants and converts to Orthodoxy. The church has played an important role in the lives of its members. It has supported them through the Depression, wars, and times of peace. The church has also been a center for community activities. These have included forming a baseball team in 1961 and establishing a Men’s Club in 1981. The church has overcome financial challenges, paying off the mortgage for its second building in just five years. It burned the land contract for its current building in 1988, marking a significant milestone. The St. Thomas Orthodox Church also faced and overcame adversity. Time and floods damaged items brought from the first church building. These were painstakingly restored, demonstrating the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage. St. Thomas Orthodox Church continues to thrive. It offers services in English. The church welcomes visitors and those curious about Orthodox Christianity. The church’s story is a testament to the power of faith and community.