The Greek Star

On the same day that the Chicago Public Schools announced the closure of 54 schools, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) responded with a donation of $1 million in new books to benefit schoolchildren participating in after-school enrichment opportunities, mentoring and summer learning programs in the Chicago area. Bishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago, also the past president of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago, facilitated the gift on behalf of Orthodox Christians in Chicago.

Beloved in the Lord, At the opening of Great and Holy Lent, it is with a heavy heart that we write to inform you of the tragic fire that has severely damaged our beloved Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church of Chicago, Illinois. The fire, of undetermined cause, broke out around noon, on Clean Monday, March 18, on the north side of the solea and spread to the balcony. While we give our Lord thanks that no one was injured, there is extensive smoke and water damage throughout the building.

CHICAGO—Each year, the feast of the Three Hierarchs—Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian and Saint John Chrysostom—brings the opportunity to celebrate Hellenic education, spirit, and Christian values. The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago commemorated this celebration of Hellenic Letters with a series of events taking place from December 8, 2012 through January 30, 2013.

Youth from throughout the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago gathered on April 21, 2012, to celebrate and participate in the Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical and Fine Arts Festival.  With the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, the event was held on Bright Saturday and was graciously hosted by the community of Saint Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church in Aurora, Ill.

Since 1983, the Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival has given Orthodox youth a unique opportunity to learn, write and speak about their Faith and heritage.