Vancouver BC Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1927

Vancouver, British Columbia, Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1927

Hellenic Community of Vancouver, 1927

Prehistory

Until 1927, Greek Orthodox worshippers in the area round about Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, depended on occasional visits from clergy who visited from time to time from elsewhere. Seattle, Washington, USA, was the nearest large population centre.

As is known from the local histories, and in the biography of the then Reader Vladimir Alexandrov, there were already in 1898 enough Greek-speakers in the area of New Westminster and Vancouver to request a visit from a priest of the Russian Mission. Bishop Nicholas (Ziorov) of San Francisco was at that time sending Priest Dmitry Kamnev to Western Canada on a missionary journey. Since he had some ability with the Greek language, and since he was on his way to Edmonton, Alberta (at that time, still in the North-West Territories), he was directed to stop in Vancouver on his way. He was travelling by railway, and the route took him in precisely that direction.

It was through Saint Spiridon’s Church in Seattle that occasional services were provided afterwards to Vancouver until the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrius was established (1915) and constructed in Seattle (1921).

By this time, the Greek-speakers in Vancouver had increased in number. They worshipped together with the already-established Russian-speaking parish (Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church) for a time, while they continued to develop the Greek community. This was the case in many other places in North America.

Establishing the parish and the community, 1927

The Hellenic community’s roots first began in the area around Vine Street and West 7th Avenue, in the heart of the Kitsilano neighbourhood, on the south side of English Bay. This is the district in which many new-arrivals were able to settle.

In 1927, both the parish of Saint George the Great Martyr and the Hellenic Community of Vancouver were established.

The Hellenic Community of Vancouver was incorporated on 22 November, 1927. The Hellenic Community of Vancouver is often considered to be British Columbia’s primary Greek community. Since its foundation, it has served as a spiritual, cultural and social gathering place for the Greek-speakers of Vancouver, and has been an integral part of Vancouver’s lively history. It has also supported the development of Greek Orthodox communities in other places in the province.

Philoptochos, 1929

With the help of money raised by the Womens’ Auxiliary (founded in 1929), Vancouver’s Greek community constructed the original Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Temple at West 7th Avenue and Vine Street, and it was ready for its first Paschal Service in 1930. A Sunday school and a Greek language class were established at the same time. The Womens’ Auxiliary in Vancouver began by helping in this manner. However, such womens’ groups eventually became known as “The Philoptochos Society”. “Philoptochos” means “friends of the poor”, but not only in the sense of financial and material resources. The Philoptochos society also aids people who are poor in spirit, poor in health, poor in emotional stability, poor in companionship, and those poor in whatever is needed to lead a better life.

AHEPA, 1930

In 1930, the Vancouver chapter of AHEPA (Anglo-Hellenic Educational Progressive Association) was founded. AHEPA, the largest Greek Heritage organisation in the world, supports a variety of charitable causes.

The Hellenic Community of Vancouver became the home for a variety of other Greek organisations and societies, including the Hellenic Canadian Congress of British Columbia and [AHEPA].

From the beginning, the Hellenic Community of Vancouver has offered a wide range of programmes both to its members and to the greater community at large. The range of these programmes has increased with time. It has become a strong supporter of a variety of charities, including the “Variety Club Telethon”, the “Greater Vancouver Food Bank”, “Covenant House”, and other causes within the Greater Vancouver region.

Post-World War II immigration

After World War II, Greek-speaking refugees from Europe and Greek-speakers from Western Canada congregated in the Kitsilano area of Vancouver. This area became unofficially nicknamed “Greektown”.

From 1954 to 1960, Vancouver received a large influx of Greek immigrants as a consequence of the difficult times in post-war Greece. However, another wave came as a result of the coup d’état of the Military Junta in Greece (1967-1974). It was at this time that the Hellenic community leaders understood that their original Temple at West 7th Avenue and Vine Street was now too small to accommodate the congregation. The existing property was clearly not spacious enough for the construction of a larger Temple. Therefore, it began to be proposed to find a new property and to build a new Temple.

Establishment of a Canadian Pastoral District (Ninth Region), 1960

In 1960, it was decided by Patriarch Athenagoras (Syprou) to establish an episcopal region for Canada, of which the assigned bishop would be "Episcopal Commissioner" for Canada. The region was a preparation for a future diocese ; the "episcopal commissioner" was the preparation for a future ruling bishop.

Purchase of property for a new Temple, 1964

According to the parish history published in 1977 (the Hellenic Community of Vancouver’s 50th anniversary), it had been decided in 1962 to purchase the 1.4-acre property on Arbutus Street. In 1964, a vacant lot at 4500, Arbutus Street (at Valley Drive), was purchased by the Hellenic Community as the future site of a new Greek Orthodox Church and future community centre. The sale was finalised with the Canadian Pacific Railway for $72,720.00.

In 1965, a building fund was set up and the community began to raise money for the new Temple. A special fundraiser for building the new Temple was held. Guests of honour at this fundraiser included Bishop Meletios (Tripodakis) of San Francisco, California, and the Greek-American wrestler Jim Londos. Plans for the new Temple were unveiled at this fundraiser.

According to the 1971 Canada census, Greek was the second-most common language and ethnicity in the Kitsilano area. The most common ethnicity in that area was English, followed by those from the British Isles (this includes the Welsh, the Scots, the Irish).

Establishing the second Temple ; establishing the Hellenic Community Centre, 1971

The new Temple was fundamentally completed in time for Pascha services in 1971, exactly 41 years after the opening of the original Temple. The construction and finishing of Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral was ended 1974. However, there was much more work yet to be done with the preparation. For instance, iconographic murals were to cover the walls and domed ceiling. The work was done by a fresco-iconographer from Greece, who spent 6 months accomplishing the project prior to the official sanctification in 1977. The Hellenic Community Centre was built shortly thereafter, in 1977. Then the Hellenic Community expanded, and it had to move to its present location.

The original church property was sold, and it later was converted into the “Kitsilano Neighbourhood House”.

The Priest Demetrios S Partsafas was assigned to serve the parish as its pastor in 1974. He became a respected and strong leader for the community, and his pastoral service had far-reaching and long-lasting effects. These effects were felt in many places throughout the province. Indeed, he was amongst several other clergy in Vancouver who paid close attention to the needs of Orthodox Christians in other parts of the province, and who attempted to provide for them.

In 1974, the City of Vancouver approved an annual Greek Day celebration in the area. Mayor Arthur Phillips proclaimed the week as “Greek Week”. The first “Greek Day on Broadway” was held on 1 July, 1974. Greek flags were flown at City Hall for one week in recognition of Greek Independence Day (25 March, 1821).

The Cyprus Relief Committee was formed in July immediately after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus on 20 July, 1974. This event caused considerable disruption of life in Greek-speaking Cyprus, and an emigration of many people. Vancouver received some of the refugees. This influx ultimately enabled the appearance of 2 other Greek communities in the Lower Mainland.

Ypapanti Presentation of the Lord Greek Orthodox Church, Victoria, 1974

Also in 1974, the Ypapanti Presentation of the Lord Greek Orthodox Church and the Greek Orthodox Community of Victoria and the Vancouver Island Society were established. Even before this establishment, the Vancouver parish had been meeting some of the spiritual needs of the Greek Orthodox faithful in Victoria and other places on Vancouver Island. The filial and fraternal relationship persisted.

50 years : 1977

In 1977, the Church of Saint George and the Hellenic Community of Vancouver celebrated 50 years since their incorporation. On 9 October of the same year, the formal sanctification of Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral took place.

The services were led by Archbishop Iakovos (Coucouzis), Archbishop of North and South America. During the services, certain members of the community were invested with the honourary title of Archon for their contributions to the community and to the building of the Temple.

Father Demetrios Partsafas was elevated to the dignity of Economos. The president of the “Philoptochos” received the medal of Saint Paul.

Interior of the Temple

The first “Gold Plate Dinner” was held on 15 May, 1977, in an effort to assist in fundraising for the building of the community centre. In the same year, the first annual Greek Food Festival was held in the almost completed Hellenic Community Centre, with overwhelming success.

Effie Kerasiotis (of the Hellenic Community of Vancouver) said that at that time (1974), the membership of the parish of Saint George included about 500 families, and that the average Sunday attendance was between 300 and 400.

Mme Kerasiotis added that the main goal of the community, including the Ladies of Philoptochos (Ladies Auxiliary), is to raise money to keep the church and the community centre operational. To that end, the "Philoptochos" hosts events such as the annual Greek Food Festival, the Easter bake sale and the Christmas bake sale in the main hall. The community hall is also rented out for weddings and baptisms. Funds raised at these events support everything from a Greek soccer league to Greek language lessons for youth to childcare and helping needy families. She added : "It’s important that we support our culture and community".

Canada Ninth District named a diocese, 1979

In 1979, following a re-structuring of the Archdiocese of North and South America, The Ninth District was elevated by the Patriarch of Constantinople to be the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Toronto (Canada), and Bishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Constantia became Bishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Toronto (Canada).

Saints Nicholas and Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Vancouver, 1979

In 1979, this parish (in a manner of speaking) gave birth to another community and parish with the establishment of the Greek Orthodox Church of Saints Nicholas and Demetrios and the Greek Orthodox Community of East Vancouver on Boundary Road.

1980s

The Hellenic Community co-hosted the 6th World Council of Churches General Assembly in Vancouver, from 24 July to 10 August, 1983.

The Apollo Soccer Club was formed, with 1,230 participants for league play at various groups and levels.

The Hellenic Community of Vancouver established a scholarship programme for outstanding secondary and university-level students. As well, the “Michael Chikites Memorial St. George’s Greek Orthodox Scholarship” was established through the descendants of a dedicated community pioneer. “Michael Chikites First” discussions were begun, towards the establishment of a Hellenic Studies chair for Simon Fraser University.

The Vancouver Community served as host city for a week-long clergy-laity conference of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Toronto, Canada.

The Community’s library was reorganised and catalogued, and it was opened to the members of the community to use.

The Hellenic Community won first prize at the Vancouver Sea Festival for its float entitled “The Boy and the Dolphin”.

The Community organised a volleyball tournament with all the Greek societies participating.

City of Vancouver centennial, 1986

In 1986, Vancouver celebrated its centennial anniversary. The Hellenic Community took part in the celebrations and it sponsored a park near the Joyce Street Sky Train Station.

The "ENA", an organisation for young Greek adults (18-30) was formed for the purpose of holding events and activities for the youth of the Hellenic Community.

The Hellenic Community sponsored the Kalamata Earthquake Relief Fund which was chaired by the Messinian Brotherhood of British Columbia.

Honourary Cathedral status

Saint George Greek Orthodox Church was elevated to the status of Honourary Cathedral by Bishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Toronto.

Ecclesiastical choir

The Ecclesiastical Choir was formed after many years of absence, and it began to sing on Sundays and high holy days.

The Hellenic Community organised a basketball tournament inviting ethnic communities from all over the Vancouver area to participate.

The National and Hellenic Canadian Congress of British Columbia was formed. The Vancouver Hellenic Community was one of its founding members.

The Paschal (Easter) service from Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral was broadcast on the CBC (Canadian Broadasting Corporation). Both Bishop Sotirios of Toronto, Canada, and Father Partsafas were serving.

In 1987, at the meeting of the Commonwealth Nations in Vancouver, the Hellenic Community and the Cypriots' Federation hosted various events.

Greek Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, Surrey, 1990

In 1990, the Greek Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, and the Greek Orthodox Community of Surrey and the Fraser Valley, British Columbia, were formed and became established.

1990s

The “Hellenic Chorus of Vancouver” was established. This is a non-profit society that performs in various cultural events in the City of Vancouver and Province of British Columbia.

HSFC Committee

The “HSFC” Committee (Healthier, Safer, Family and Community) was established under the sponsorship of the Hellenic Community. It is an education committee of concerned people of Hellenic descent who came together to discuss and promote health and social issues. The committee presented various seminars and lectures on a regular basis to promote a healthy lifestyle and to strengthen families.

Economos Demetrios Partsafas

The Hellenic Community, in co-operation with the Hellenic Canadian Congress of British Columbia, carried out various fundraising events for the establishment of the Hellenic Studies Chair at Simon Fraser University. The total amount raised was $500,000.

The Hellenic Community Centre was completely paid for, and the community was granted a clear title to their property.

Parish cenotaph

A cenotaph was built outside the cathedral and the community centre as a result of the generous donations from the AHEPA Chapter 26. The cenotaph serves as a place for dedications on important religious days such as 28 October (“OXI” Day — “No” Day) and 25 March (Greek Independence Day).

Seniors' Housing Project Committee

The Hellenic Community focussed fundraising for a different sort of seniors’ home in order to meet the needs of its aging members. The Seniors’ Housing Project Committee was formed to work during 3 years for the establishment of a long-term care facility adjacent to the cathedral.

The Hellenic Community supported the formation of the Greek Soccer Association, an organised league for the Greek youth. The league had 7 teams.

“Parent-tot” programmes, as well as preschool and kindergarten programmes were developed to meet the needs of parents with young children. The first of these programmes, the “Melissakia” began in 1996.

Renovations

Exterior and interior renovations were done within the community centre in order to meet the requirements of several community programmes and activities. New classrooms and meeting rooms were built.

A “Night of the Arts” was organised with great success. The night demonstrated the talents of the members of the Hellenic Community through song, dance and playing musical instruments.

The Council of Hellenes Abroad (“SAE”) was established. The Hellenic Community of Vancouver was represented in this new organisation.

Establishment of the distinct Metropolis of Toronto (Canada), 1996

In 1996, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America was reorganised by the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The Patriarchate of Constantinople established the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto (Canada).

Bishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) was elevated to the dignity of metropolitan.

This change moved Metropolitan Sotirios and the Metropolis of Toronto into a direct relationship with the patriarchate, rather than being one of the dioceses of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America.

The Hellenic Community hosted a lecture, poetry, and video and slide presentation in honour of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games.

Proposed plans of the Community’s “Seniors' Congregated Care Facility” were presented to the members of the community.

The Hellenic Community of Vancouver Greek Dance Group was formed.

"Mother-Church" care for Greek Orthodox throughout British Columbia

Saint George’s Cathedral has effectively served as the “mother church” of the many Greek Orthodox parishes throughout British Columbia, and the Hellenic Community of Vancouver has been the “mother community” of the other communities throughout British Columbia.

Visit of Patriarch Bartholomew I (Archontonis), 1998

In 1998, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I (Archontonis) visited Canada in May, and he presided at the service of Vespers on the evening of 16 May at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral. A dinner was held in his honour, at which over 500 faithful were in attendance. Valley Drive was given an alternate honourary name “Patriarch Bartholomew Way”.

Changes to the by-laws

The Hellenic Community introduced major changes in its constitution and by-laws in order to conform with the “Uniform Community Regulations” of the metropolis.

25th anniversary of priesthood for Father Demetrios

Protopresbyter Demetrios Partsafas celebrated 25 years of service as the priest of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

The Hellenic Community acquired additional property adjacent to the community centre.

2000s

The Hellenic Community entered into negotiations for the purchase of 1,000 plots at the Valley View Cemetery in Surrey, British Columbia, in order to meet some of the needs of the community.

The Hellenic Community fundraised and donated $5,000 to the Variety Club Telethon. The following year, donations increased to $15,000.

The first annual “Mother’s Day Walkathon” was held in May, and raised more than $20,000. Some of the proceeds were donated to the "Children’s Miracle Network".

According to the 2001 Canada census, the percentage of people in the Kitsilano neighbourhood who reported Greek as their mother tongue had shrunk to 2 percent, fewer than those speaking English, Chinese, French, or German.

In 2005, the City of Vancouver, the Government of British Columbia, and the Government of Greece sponsored a return of Greek Day that continued annually thereafter.

2010s

In 2017, the parish and the community celebrated 90 years since their foundation.

In April, Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas) made an archpastoral visit to most of the Greek Orthodox parishes in British Columbia (Victoria, Nanaimo, Kamloops, Penticton and Vancouver). This visit included the anniversary celebrations at Saint George's Cathedral. Metropolitan Sotirios presided at the serving of Great Vespers and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on the Feast Day of Saint George (23 April). The Divine Liturgy was followed by a luncheon at which 700 participated.

90th Anniversary

Elevation of the Metropolis of Toronto to Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada, 2019

On 13 June, 2019, Patriarch Bartholomew (Archontonis) and the Holy Synod of the Church of Constantinople decided to elevate the Metropolis of Toronto (Canada) to become the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada. It was given the same status as the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America in the USA.

On 13 June, 2019, Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas) was elevated to the dignity of archbishop.

2020-2021 Coronavirus-19 virus restrictions on parishes

In early 2020, the Covid-19 virus made its appearance in Canada, and it quickly became a world-wide pandemic. Because of the rules governing gatherings that were laid down by the provincial and city governments, the parish stopped any further services after 8 March, 2020. Including the rules regarding social distancing, the decreasing numbers permitted for any gathering, and the considerations regarding the health of all concerned, this and other parishes were required to close for a time. All Holy Services were conducted regularly with only the priest, the cantor and the sexton (caretaker) present. The worship services were streamed on social media.

As elsewhere, there was some controversy about the legal requirements.

Archpastoral visitations to Vancouver Island, Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland, 2022

First visitation, May, 2022

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Archbishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Canada was able to make a ten-day archpastoral visit to Vancouver Island, Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland. He was present there 13-23 May, 2022. The first 2 days were spent in Victoria.

On Sunday, 15 May, assisted by Priest N Sideras, Parish Priest, and Priest G Despotov, Archbishop Sotirios presided at Matins, and he celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. A special prayer was said for all the departed members of AHEPA, as is the custom of the Archdiocese on the third Sunday of May. Upon the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a luncheon was served to all in the parish hall.

That evening, Archbishop Sotirios had a dinner meeting with members of the Boards of Directors of the 3 Greek Communities of the Lower Mainland.

On Monday, 16 May, the Philoptochos Retreat of the 3 chapters (Saint George, Saints Nicholas and Demetrios, Saints Constantine and Helen) of the Greek Communities of Eastern Vancouver, was held with Archbishop Sotirios at Saints Nicholas and Demetrios Temple.

On Tuesday, 17 May, together with the clergy of the Lower Mainland, Archbishop Sotirios visited Father Demetrios Partsafas and Presbytera Irene, after which there was a clergy luncheon at which various pastoral matters were discussed.

That evening, Archbishop Sotirios, Father T Prattas, and Father N Sideras were invited to a dinner by the Consul General of Greece in Vancouver, Eleni Georgopoulou at her home with her family.

On Thursday, 19 May, the Archbishop met with young adults from the Metropolitan Vancouver area at Saint George Cathedral. For more than an hour, he answered their questions, and he encouraged them to live their Faith every day.

On Friday, 20 May, in the evening, Archbishop Soririos presided at Great Vespers. On Saturday, 21 May, in the morning, the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop Sotirios, along with Priests T Prattas, G Despotov, N Sideras, and D Vickery, at the Temple of Saint Constantine and Helen, Surrey and Fraser Valley, on the feast-day of the Patron Saints.

Archbishop Sotirios introduced Priest G Despotov as the new parish priest of the community. It was also announced that Mr. Chris Vela, a student of the Toronto Theological Academy, would be ordained to the Holy Diaconate and to the Holy Priesthood in September.

Second visitation, September, 2022

From 15-19 September, 2022, Archbishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) visited the Greek Orthodox Communities of Vancouver for the second time that year.

On Thursday, 15 September, in the evening, the Clergy and Community Presidents of Vancouver met together with Archbishop Sotirios over supper, during which they discussed the future of the Church in Canada, and various pastoral concerns (all for the glory of God and the progress of the Greek Communities).

On Friday, 16 September, Archbishop Sotirios and the Vancouver area clergy visited Father Demetrios and Presbytera Irene Partsafas. This was followed by a luncheon meeting, during which there was constructive discussion of pastoral concerns and questions. In the evening, at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) ordained Deacon Christian Vela to the Holy Priesthood at Saint George's Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. It was attended by all the clergy of Metro Vancouver, along with Protopresbyter Peter Avgeropoulos, President of the Clergy Syndesmos of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada (who had travelled from Toronto, Ontario). After the service, a reception was held for all.

After the Ordination Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

On Saturday, 17 September, Archbishop Sotirios celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Saints Nicholas and Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Temple and Community of East Vancouver. He was assisted by Protopresbyter Peter Avgeropoulos of Toronto, and the clergy of Metro Vancouver and Victoria. At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Sotirios offered the "Agiasmos Service" for the new Greek and Sunday School Year, along with the elevation of Priest Timoleon Prattas, Parish Priest, to the dignity of Economos. A reception was held after the service.

On Sunday, 18 September, Archbishop Sotirios served the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Saints Constantine and Helen Temple and Community in Surrey, British Columbia. He was assisted by Priest Georgi Despotov, Parish Priest ; Priest Christian Vela ; and Protopresbyter Dorotheos Tryphonopoulos. A reception was held after service.

That evening, the Honourary Consul General of Greece in Vancouver, Mrs. Eleni Georgopoulou and her husband, held a dinner in honour of Archbishop Sotirios at the Minoas Restaurant. The Consul General and her family are active and faithful Orthodox Christians, and they participated in all 3 Divine Liturgies.

Before his departure for Montréal, Québec, on Monday, 19 September, Archbishop Sotirios stated : “It is a blessing to be back in Vancouver to hold all these services, along with seeing our people back in our Churches. Make sure to invest and support our programmes, especially those with the youth, and our Theological Academy. In this way, we will have a bright future as Greek Orthodox Faithful in Canada”.

Archpastoral visitation, 2023

From 26 January to 3 February, 2023, Archbishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) visited the Greek Orthodox Communities of British Columbia.

On the first day of visiting, Friday, 27 January, 2023, Archbishop Sotirios visited Protopresbyter Demetrios and Presbytera Irene Partsafas. He was accompanied by 3 priests of the Vancouver area (Priests Timoleon Prattas, Georgi Despodov, Nikolaos Sideras).

In the evening, Archbishop Sotirios served an evening Divine Liturgy at the Temple of Saints Constantine and Helen in Surrey, British Columbia. He was assisted by the clergy of British Columbia. This date marked the 49th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Archbishop Sotirios. There were many Faithful who participated in the Divine Liturgy, at which retired Protopresbyter Dorotheos Tryfonopoulos was present and praying in the Altar. Archbishop Sotirios expressed gratitude for the many years of pastoral service of Father Dorotheos.

In the morning of Saturday, 28 January, Archbishop Sotirios had several meetings, including one with Mr. A Tsakumis, President of the Vancouver Greek Community. Later, Archbishop Sotirios, who had accepted the invitation to dinner, visited the Consul General of Greece in Vancouver Mrs. Eleni Georgopoulou, together with her husband. He was accompanied also by the clergy of Metro Vancouver.

On Sunday, 29 January, Archbishop Sotirios served the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Saint George's Cathedral in Vancouver. He was assisted by Priest Nikolaos Sideras. At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Sotirios performed the Swearing-in Ceremony of the new Philoptochos Board of the cathedral, and also the cutting of the Vasilopita for the Community.

Installation of the new Philoptochos Board

Following the Divine Liturgy, the Community of Saints Constantine and Helen Surrey hosted a fundraising luncheon in the hall of the Hellenic Community of Vancouver.

On Monday, 30 January, the Feast-day of the Three Hierarchs, Patron Saints of Orthodox Christian Education, Archbishop Sotirios celebrated an evening Divine Liturgy at the Temple of the Greek Orthodox Community of Saints Nicholas and Demetrios in East Vancouver. He was assisted by clergy of the Vancouver region (Priests Timoleon Prattas, Georgi Despodov, and Nikolaos Sideras). After the Divine Liturgy, the Greek schools of the area held a celebration in honour of the Three Hierarchs.

Archbishop Sotirios with a daughter and grandchildren of Father Partsafas

In addition, Archbishop Sotirios met with the new Honourary Consul of Cyprus in British Columbia, Ms. Kyriaki Arsoniadis.

Then, during the first days of February, Archbishop Sotirios travelled to Victoria, British Columbia. He served in the Temple of Ypapanti on its Altar Feast-day, and he met with various representatives of the Faithful on Vancouver Island. He returned to Toronto on 3 February.

Priests who have served in this parish

The web-site history of the cathedral does not name (at present) any of the clergy who served the parish between 1927 and 1974.

• Father Demetrios S Partsafas, 1974

Demetrios Partsafas, the middle child of Socrates and Maria Partsafas, was born on 27 October, 1940, in Kokkari, on the Isle of Samos, Greece. Demetrios grew up on Samos until 1954, when he left Samos amd Greece for Montréal, Québec, Canada, along with his mother and 2 siblings, in order to join his father, who had emigrated to Canada in 1951.

As a teenager in Montréal, Québec, Demetrios attended high school at night, and he worked during daytime to help his family. Young Demetrios served as an acolyte at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Sherbrooke Street at Clark Street.

Demetrios made the decision to enter the priesthood in his early 20s and with the assistance and guidance of Metropolitan Athenagoras (Kokkinakis) (at that time, Bishop in Canada). He returned to Greece, where he studied theology at the University of Thessaloniki. After graduating in 1967, Demetrios met Irene Hatzioannou, also from Samos. They married in 1968 ; and, in the spring of 1969, the newly-married couple moved back to Montréal.

Ordinations

Upon his return to Canada, on 6 July, 1969, Bishop Theodosios (Sideris) ordained Demetrios Partsafas to the Holy Diaconate at his home parish, Saint George’s. On the next day, on 7 July, 1969, he ordained Deacon Demetrios Partsafas to the Holy Priesthood. In late July, 1969, Priest Demetrios Partsafas was assigned to serve as parish priest of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in the small town of Waterloo, Iowa, USA, where he served for the next 5 years.

While they were in Waterloo, Father Demetrios and Presbytera Irene received from the Lord their son, Socrates, in 1969, followed by their twin daughters Maria and Stella, in 1972. Their fourth child, Nektaria, was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1980.

Assignment to Vancouver

In the spring of 1974, while he was in Chicago, Illinois, for the Clergy-Laity Conference of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of North America, Father Demetrios met 2 representatives from the Hellenic Community of Vancouver, Tom Karras and Georgios Christocostas. During the conference, these 2 gentlemen approached the newly-ordained and assigned Bishop of Canada, Bishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas) of Toronto, and they asked whether he would consider assigning Father Demetrios to serve in Vancouver. As a consequence of these discussions at the conference, and the blessing of Bishop Sotirios, Father Demetrios Partsafas arrived in Vancouver in September, 1974, in order to meet with the Board of Trustees. After his return to Iowa and by invitation of the Board of Trustees of the Hellenic Community of Vancouver, Father Demetrios and his young family arrived in Vancouver on 22 September, 1974.

Protopresbyter Demetrios S Partsafas became the pastor of the parish in 1974 (he served as its rector for about 40 years). Father Demetrios recalled that the scaffolding was still in place during the first services after his arrival.

He recalled also that at the time, many members of the congregation had been distressed about the proposal to sell and build, because they lived close to the original location. Greek and other Orthodox communities have tended to be developed around their parish church, as was the case in Kitsilano. Some parishioners therefore pressed to have a second Temple built instead of closing the original one. However, the original building was simply too small, and there were not enough financial resources available at the time to keep the original building and to add a new one (it would also have required another priest at a time when there were not many available). The parishioners also did not want to carry a debt. Therefore, the community administration sold some properties it had accumulated, and it then searched for a new site.

Two years after arriving in Vancouver, not only was Father Demetrios involved in the fundraising efforts for the Church iconography and furniture, but he became involved also with the fundraising efforts for the construction of the Hellenic Community Centre. During his 40 years as the rector at Saint George’s, Father Demetrios continued his work to beautify the Temple by leading the fundraising efforts for additional iconography, and for carpet replacement in 2012.

Father Demetrios was a central force in the Hellenic Community of Vancouver for more than 4 decades. Under his direction, countless young men served the altar as acolytes during the Divine Liturgies and other services of both Sundays and important feast-days. Further, he was responsible for leading a robust Sunday school programme with very dedicated volunteers who taught the youngest members of the community about the Orthodox Christian Faith. After completing Sunday school, the youth of the community would enter GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth Association), and Father Demetrios ensured that the youth remained close to the Church, and engaged in their community. Most recently, Father Demetrios was involved in supporting Camp Metamorphosis. He was also an advisor to the Greek language programme. in which thousands of students have studied Greek language, culture and Faith.

In addition to his extensive work with the youth, Father Demetrios had other significant highlights during his tenure, including helping to host the World Council of Churches Assembly in Vancouver in 1983 ; welcoming Patriarch Bartholomew (Archontonis) in 1998 ; and hosting 2 Clergy-Laity Assemblies of the Holy Metropolis of Toronto (1985, 2013).

Father Demetrios was very active also in many programmes that brought families closer to the community, including the "Healthier, Safer, Family and Community Initiative" in the 1990s, and the establishment of a Mother’s Day Walk (the proceeds of which were donated to the BC Children’s Hospital). Father Demetrios organised numerous visits to the local monastery of Saint John the Forerunner in Washington State, and he led a group of pilgrims to the Holy Land.

During his time at Saint George’s, Father Demetrios was elevated to the dignity of Economos, and then of Protopresbyter by Archbishop Sotirios.

• Father Constantinos Economos, 2014

Constantinos Economos was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, and he was baptised at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. Constantinos grew up in the Hellenic Community of Vancouver, and he was involved actively in the programmes of the community. He served as an acolyte in the parish for many years.

On Palm Sunday of 2002, Constantinos was tonsured to be a Reader, and blessed to be a Subdeacon by Metropolitan Sotirios. Constantinos continued to be involved in the Youth and Dance Groups of the community. He served also as President of GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America), and then later as the youngest Board Member elected to the Board of Trustees of the Hellenic Community of Vancouver. The Orthodox Christian Faith and Hellenic Culture were always a priority in his life. After completing high school, he continued his studies at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) in Burnaby, British Columbia. He graduated in 2005 with a Diploma in Technology in Operations Management.

Further education and service

Following the completion of this diploma, Constantinos pursued his calling, and he continued his studies at the Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy (TOTA). In 2008, he graduated from the academy with a Bachelor's Degree in Theology (BTh.). His marks were such that he was the valedictorian of his class. Upon graduating, Constantinos returned to Vancouver, and he began serving the Church as a chanter and a youth leader from 2008-2011. In the summer of 2010, Constantinos founded Camp Metamorphosis BC, and he served thereafter as the director of the camp. With the intent of restoring youth participation within the communities of British Columbia, Constantinos developed the programme from 25 participants in its inaugural year to 187 participants at its peak. Because of the great energy and enthusiasm revitalised by the camp programme, Constantinos and the Camp Metamorphosis BC volunteer group have organised successfully winter camps, day camps, and regional and national youth assemblies for young adults. Camp Metamorphosis BC’s motto of “Faith, Fun, Friends” inspired a resurgence of youth involvement in all of the programmes of the Greek Orthodox Communities of Metro Vancouver including youth/play groups, traditional dance groups, as well as Church attendance.

In May, 2011, Constantinos married Kristina, now his wife, at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. Constantinos and Kristina had met while volunteering at the Greek Food Festival for Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Surrey, British Columbia.

Ordinations

On 4 June, 2011, Constantinos was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by the Vicar-Bishop of the Toronto Metropolis, Bishop Christophoros (Rakintzakis) of Andida at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. In October, 2011, Deacon Constantinos was assigned to serve as the Western Canadian Regional Youth Director.

On 31 January, 2012, Father Constantinos was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. Priest Constantinos became the first (and thus far only) person to be baptised, raised, married, and ordained at Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, and all under the spiritual guidance of Protopresbyter Demetrios Partsafas. Father Constantinos served as an assistant priest at Saint George Cathedral until the summer of 2012.

Victoria

On 14 August, 2012, Priest Constantinos Economos was transferred, and he was assigned to serve as the Parish Priest of Ypapanti Greek Orthodox Church in Victoria, British Columbia. Father Constantinos and Presbytera Kristina served the Greek Orthodox Communities on Vancouver Island with love and enthusiasm, and they brought a special focus to the youth ministry there. Together, Father Constantinos and Presbytera Kristina revitalised the Sunday School programme ; they started and ran a bi-weekly playgroup for the toddlers ; they led the GOYA for the youth of the community ; and they taught a traditional Greek dance group, the "Nisiotes", who performed at food festivals and local events in Victoria.

Assignment to Vancouver

On 1 December, 2014, Father Constantinos was assigned as Parish Priest of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver. Father Constantinos initiated the re-establishment of the Saint George Vancouver Youth, a 5-level youth group. Under his direction the "Enosis" Hellenic Dance Groups were re-established including : "Filarakia" (ages 5-12), "H Parea" (ages 13-17), and "Enosis" (ages 18-25). All these programmes were geared towards engaging the youth of the parish along with their Greek Orthodox Culture and their Orthodox Christian Faith, and creating a sense of family amongst our youngest community members.

In January, 2015 (after a 30-year absence), Father Constantinos organised the Cross Dive at the Great Blessing of Water on the Feast of Theophany, which brings together all the Greek Orthodox Communities in Metro Vancouver in order that the youth of all ages may dive for the Holy Cross at Kitsilano Beach after the water is blessed.

In 2017, Saint George's Cathedral celebrated its 90th Anniversary. On this special occasion for the cathedral and for the Hellenic Community of Vancouver, Father Constantinos organised and celebrated 2 Divine Liturgies at the location of the original Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Kitsilano (which is now the Kitsilano Neighbourhood House). Many of the Faithful had this little Temple as their first spiritual home after immigrating, and it was an emotional and uplifting experience. After the Feast of Pentecost, 2018, Father Constantinos led a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (attended by 38 members of the Vancouver Hellenic Community). The primary focus of the pilgrimage was to experience the Holy Places by serving a Paraklesis at Gethsemane, Diesis prayers at all the holy sites, and above all the Divine Liturgy in Holy Resurrection Cathedral (site of the Holy Sepulchre) in Jerusalem. Father Constantinos organised community pilgrimages and youth trips ; he has continued the movement towards the completion of the iconography in the interior of Saint George Cathedral ; and he led the creation and construction of the Chapel of Saint Anna in the Cathedral. Father Constantinos’ ultimate vision is to ensure that the Greek Orthodox Faith and culture are not just a part of the lives, but rather the foundation for the lives of the Faithful. By promoting and supporting programmes and events with the goal of engaging every community member, both young and old, Father Constantinos intends, with God's blessing and help, to continue to create a sense of welcome, family, and a home away from home for all the Greek Orthodox Faithful.

In September, 2019, Priest Constantinos Economos was transferred to Markham, Ontario.

Priest Constantinos Economos

• Father Odisseys Drossos

Odisseys Drossos was born in Montréal, Québec, Canada, on 18 September, 1967. He graduated from Malcolm Campbell High School in 1984. Then, he earned a Bachelor of Liberal Arts Degree in Pre-Theology from the Hellenic College in Brookline, Massachusetts, USA, in 1990. Afterwards, he earned a Master of Divinity degree from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in 1993. During his 7 years at Hellenic College/Holy Cross, Odisseys was a member of the Byzantine Choir, “Romanos o Melodos” (Romanos the Melodist). He served as lead chanter in the Chapel, and teaching assistant to the Professor of Byzantine Music. After graduation, Odisseys served as the pastoral assistant at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois, under the direction of Archimandrite Gabriel (Karambis). While he was in the Chicago area, he met Maria Kalyvas, and they were united in marriage on 5 February, 1995.

Ordinations

Odisseys Drossos was ordained to the Holy Diaconate on 17 July, 1995, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Montréal, Québec.

On 18 July, 1995, Deacon Odisseys Drossos was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at Saints Panteleimon, Anna and Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church in Markham, Ontario.

Markham, Ontario

Priest Odisseys Drossos was assigned to serve as parish priest at Saints Panteleimon, Anna and Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church in Markham, Ontario.

On 7 March, 2005, Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas) elevated Priest Odisseys to the dignity of Oikonomos.

In addition to his pastoral duties at Saint Panteleimon Greek Orthodox Church in Markham, Ontario, he served as editor/producer of the weekly Archdiocesan TV programme, “Orthodox Voice”, as well as the Director of Social Services and one of the founding directors of the Summer Camp Metamorphosis programmes for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis (Archdiocese) of Toronto. He also served as Professor (Instructor) of Byzantine Music at the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy, as well as the Byzantine School of Music, and as Chaplain of the Metamorphosis Greek Orthodox Day School in Toronto.

On 30 December, 2006, Oikonomos Odis and Presbytera Maria became parents of a son, Thomas Tsambikos Drossos.

On 26 July, 2017, Metropolitan Sotirios (Athanassoulas) elevated Oikonomos Odysseys Drossos to the dignity of Protopresbyter.

Assignment to Vancouver

On 1 September, 2019, Protopresbyter Odisseys Drossos was assigned to serve as Parish Priest at Saint George Cathedral in Vancouver, British Columbia.

In November, 2020, Father Odysseys Drossos was transferred to the USA.

Priest Odisseys Drossos

• Father Nikolaos Sideras

Nikolaos Sideras was born in Thessaloniki, Greece, in September, 1987, to Savvas Sideras and Maria Papadimopoulou. He has an older brother George and a younger sister Maria.

As a young child, he began training in Taekwondo ITF, and he continued until age 26 in competitive martial arts. He was undefeated from 2004 to 2013, and MVP in 2005 and 2008. He won 8 Pan-European championships and 3 World Championships, and he was a member of the Greek National Team for 10 consecutive years. Subsequently, he earned a coaching degree, and he served as coach for the Greek team in 2012 and 2013.

In addition, he studied for 2½ years at the Police Academy (2007-2009), and he served afterwards as a police officer in Thessaloniki.

Ordinations

Nikolaos Sideras was ordained to the Holy Diaconate in 2014.

Deacon Nikolaos Sideras was ordained to the Holy Priesthood in 2016.

He completed university studies at the Theological School of Aristotle at the University of Thessaloniki in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Assignment to Vancouver

In 2021, Priest Nikolaos Sideras was assigned to serve as Parish Priest at Saint George Cathedral in Vancouver. He arrived with his wife, Presbytera Petroula, and with their 3 young children : Panagiotis, Christoforos, and Akylina.

Priest Nikolaos Sideras

Iconography in the dome

Particular parish information

This cathedral parish is a part of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Canada, of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople. The bishop is Archbishop Sotirios (Athanassoulas). The Vicar-Bishop is Bishop Athenagoras (Salmas). The patriarch is Patriarch Bartholomew (Archontonis).

This parish follows the New (Revised Julian) Calendar.

The Altar Feast-day of this parish is the Feast-day of the Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer George, 23 April.

In 2023, Priest Nikolaos Sideras is the rector of the parish.

Protopresbyter Demetrios Partsafas (the former pastor and retired priest) remains present and active in the parish.

Iconostas

Address :

Saint George the Great Martyr Greek Orthodox Church

4500, Arbutus Street

Vancouver, British Columbia

V6J 4A2

Telephone : 604-266-7148

Web-site : https://helleniccommunity.org/our-church/

Facebook

Directions :

Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral is situated on the east side of Arbutus Street. It is about halfway between English Bay to the north and the Fraser River to the south.

By car :

From downtown Vancouver, drive north across the Granville Bridge. Take the exit to the right for Fir Street. Continue on Fir Street until West 16th Avenue. Turn right. Drive to Arbutus Street. Turn left (south). After West King Edward Avenue, the Temple is on the left.

From the south, from SW Marine Drive, drive north on Main Street, Oak Street, or Granville Street (Highway #99). At West 33rd Avenue, turn left and drive past Quilchena Park (on the right) to Arbutus Street. Turn right. The Temple is on the right.

From the east, drive westwards on the Trans-Canada Highway (BC Highway #1) as far as Burnaby. In Burnaby, after Willingdon Avenue, take the Grandview Highway exit and continue westwards on the Grandview Highway. This becomes 12th Avenue. At West 12th Avenue and Arbutus Street, turn left (south). Drive south on Arbutus Street ; after West King Edward Avenue, the Temple will be on the left.

By bus :

Consult BC Transit’s Translink. There is bus service (#16) along Arbutus Street.

By rail :

Vancouver is accessible by rail (and hence this parish) by VIARail from points to the east in Canada. It is accessible also by Amtrak from Seattle, Washington, and other connecting stations.

Vancouver is accessible by road, chiefly by Highway #1 from the west, and Highway #99 from the south.

It is accessible by various airline companies through the Vancouver International Aeroport.

It is accessible by ferry through BC Ferries at either Tsawassen or Horseshoe Bay.

Priest Nikolaos Sideras

Telephone : 604-266-7148

References

Original parish history article

Efthimiou, Miltiades B and George A Christopoulos, eds., “History of the Greek Orthodox Church in America” (New York : Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America, 1984). ASIN ‏: B001AD93BI.

Kitroeff, Alexander, “The Greek Orthodox Church in America : a modern History” (Ithaca, New York : Cornell University Press, 2020).

Pappaioannou, Priest George, ‘The Historical Development of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America’ in “A Companion to the Greek Orthodox Church”, ed. Litsas, F K (New York, NY : Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America, 1984).

Prokurat, Michael ; Golitzin, Alexander & Petersen, Michael, eds., “The A to Z of the Orthodox Church” (Lanham, MD : Scarecrow Press, 2010), pp. 143-145. ISBN : 978-0-8108-7602-6.

“The Russian Mission in North America”

Stokoe, Mark and Kishkovsky, Leonid, “Christians in North America 1794-1994” (Chapter 2).

Tarasar, Constance J, ed., “Orthodox America 1794-1976 : Development of The Orthodox Church in America” (Syosset, NY : The Orthodox Church in America Department of History and Archives, 1975). ASIN : B000ZLZAUE.

Additional information :

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada parish listing

Orthodox World listing

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada

Church of Constantinople web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about the Church of Constantinople

OrthodoxWiki article about the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America

Wikipedia article about the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

1996 Special Regulations and Uniform Parish Regulations Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

Uniform Community Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada, 2021

Patriarch Meletius IV (Metaxakis)