Grand Opening Celebrated!

On June 13th 2015 over 250 faithful gathered in prayer to celebrate the Grand Opening of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. The Service of the Agiasmo was officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, assisted by His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Dcn. Chris Avramopoulos and other Metropolis Clergy. In attendance with the many faithful was Mr. Chris Tomaras the Grand Benefactor of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center and Mr. John Papaps son of the late Theodore Pappas a Great Benefactor of the Retreat Center. 

In a symbolic moment the ribbon to the new facilities was literally cut by His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago and His Grace Bishop Demetrios Of Mokissos, as well as Mr. Tomaras and Mr. Pappas. Additionally, Mr. Bill J. Vranas the president of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board of Directors and Mr. George Vorvoulis, the "God Father" and finder of the Retreat Center property, participated in this historic moment. 

The day was overflowing with joy to see this home and dream of His Eminence finally open its doors. Thanks and gratitude filled the air for those who have worked so hard, giving of their time, talents and treasures to launch this unique ministry of the Metropolis of Chicago. 

See All the Grand Opening Photos on the St. Iakovos FlickR

A Special word of thanks to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board of Directors who have provided guidance for this ministry since its inception. 

Grand Opening Saturday June 13, 2015

Almost a decade ago the dream of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos was to have a place of peace. Where the parishes and parishioners of the Metropolis of Chicago could connect with each other, rejuvenate, and grow in their faith. Additionally, the hope and prayer was to also finally build a home for the wildly successful camping program Fanari, which has changed the lives of thousands of campers in its over four decades of youth ministry. Through the love, dedication, and contributions of so many in the Metropolis of Chicago these hopes, prayers, and dreams have finally become a reality.  Therefore, it with great honor that we cordially invite all to join us in celebrating the Grand Opening of the St. Iakovos Retreat Center on Saturday June 13, 2015 at 11:00 am.

The day will begin at 11:00 am with the liturgical celebration of an Agiasmo Service and blessing of the new facilities, followed by lunch. Tours will be offered as well as wagon rides and visits to the barn. Additionally, the walking trails featuring the beautiful Proskinitaria will be open for those seeking tranquility amongst God's creation. 

The cost for the event is a freewill donation that can be made to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center.

RSVP's for the event can be made through your local parishes office. If you are not associated with a local parish, contact us at Office@GoSIRC.org. 

Parking is limited check with your local parish for transportation opportunities. 

We hope and pray that the entire metropolis family can gather together; the day has finally arrived to celebrate and launch this unique ministry of our Church. 

Download Flyer by Clicking Here

Question? email us - Office@GoSIRC.org

920 224th Ave Kansasville, WI 53139

Annual Ζωοδόχος Πηγή Feast Day Celebration

Bright Friday April 17th, 2015 the St. Iakovos Retreat Center will be hosting the annual feast day celebration of our beloved Chapel. All are welcome to join His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, assisted by the Metropolis Clergy, in celebrating Heirarchical Diving Liturgy together followed by Lunch and an Open House. Lunch will be served in our new Cafeteria by the St. Iakovos Retreat Center Board, Metropolis of Chicago Ladies Philoptochos and Volunteers. 

9:00 am:  Diving Liturgy

12:00 pm: Lunch & Open House

Download Flyer by Clicking Here

Fanari Winter Camp: March 6 - 8 2015

The St. Iakovos Retreat Center hosted its first group since completing construction March 6 - 8 2015. The weekend was filled with faith and fellowship amongst Fanari campers and staff, as well as excitement to finally be home. It has been a long road since first purchasing the property in 2006 to finally having our first campers. A road that has been filled with much effort and love from parishioners from throughout the Chicago Metropolis and much guidance from our Heirarchs. The retreat center board of directors and staff very much look forward to our a summer filled with more prayers and smiles from our campers. 

See pictures &highlights from the weekend by Clicking Here