Excitement Builds Over New Greek Orthodox Church
BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Excitement is building over a new state-of-the-art facility for Baltimore County's Greek Orthodox community.
Mary Bubala reports after 10 years of planning and fundraising, a dream becomes a reality for Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church.
When guests walk in, one of the first things they notice about the brand new ministries complex at Saint Demetrios Greek Church in Cub Hill is the "cross" on the floor.
When renovations began over a year ago, new water lines needed to go in.
"When the plumber came, he cut the opening for the plumbing. By accident or divine intervention, it was in the shape of a cross," said Father Lou Noplos.
Finishing touches are being put on the complex, which officially opens Sunday.
With a special blessing by the head of the Greek Orthodox Church for the region, the complex will be home to more than 40 different ministries and outreach programs.
"We have waited 10 years in order for this project to get to this point," said Sophia Vendelis, building committee chair.
Vendelis says the church raised more than $3 million to build a full-court gymnasium. The gym will soon house a huge stage for productions and plays. They have also built a new kitchen, which is almost done.
"I have to close my eyes and I am going to smell the wonderful aromas of Greek food," said Vendelis.
The new complex also makes room for a growing school --adding a grade each year.
"What I do like is hearing the pitter patter of little feet and the little young voices and being alive---just being alive," Noplos said.
The courtyard is still under construction and honors those who've paved the way for the complex to be built.
"It's our children who have actually gotten involved in this construction. It's been a labor of love," said Vendelis.
Saint Demetrios is the largest Greek Orthodox Church in the Baltimore region.
Sunday's ribbon cutting will take place at 10 a.m. Church leaders say all the final touches will be complete by then.
