St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Perth Amboy, New Jersey has recently completed a total transformation with the adornment of new iconography by Thessalonian iconographers brothers Panagiotis and Demetrios Chrystodoulou.
The new church wide Byzantine iconography is resplendent amidst the church, which was totally restored to its original form keeping the lights, terrazzo floors and vintage stained glass windows in the Orthodox Christian style. Located across from the scenic waterfront along the Raritan River, the artists were moved by the exceptional light and natural beauty found at the church’s location. With the community’s new priest, Rev. Dr. George Parsenios, Assistant Professor of Theology at Princeton University, the community is experiencing a renaissance with the return of prior members and an increase in new members who recognize a new and revitalized spirit of optimism and growth.
“This is an exciting time for our church” said Parish Council President Judge Marina Corodemus. “We have been preparing for our 100th year Anniversary this October by preserving the beauty of our building on the waterfront while expanding our membership with people who have rediscovered a new St. Demetrios.” Currently under planning is a new modern community center and the exploration of waterfront housing adjoining the church.
“Unlike other inner city churches that fled to suburbia, we held fast to our original waterfront location, confident that the demographics would shift and gentrification would work in our favor”, explained Corodemus. Perth Amboy is slated for several major waterfront projects including a $47 million dollar redo of the train station complex with direct trains to New York. “We kept Yiayia and Papou’s church open and revitalized it. So we invite everyone to visit and come back to Perth Amboy…the best is yet to come”.
The church will hold numerous celebrations during the Feast Day week of St. Demetrios October 24-29, 2017. A full schedule of events is planned and will include Vespers and Divine Liturgy celebrated by His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey, hosting of the convention of the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians, a 64 voice concert honoring the Great Martyr Demetrios, and an open air luncheon overlooking the water after the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and the Federation choir singing music of Anna Gallows. For tickets and a detailed schedule visit www.stdemetriosperthamboy.org or call the office at 732-826-4466.
