In August of 2015 the Parish of the Assumption Cathedral had a day retreat at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center. Over 70 participants spend the day in faith and fellowship together. Activities included a BBQ, Wagon Rides, Proskinitaria Walk, Animals Visits, Soccer, Volleyball and Swimming. For More Photo's Check out our FlickR Album
As the sun rose over the St. Iakovos Retreat Center this morning, memories filled with 4 weeks of blessings flooded our minds. Since June 15th the Retreat Center has been a buzz with the sights and sounds of hundreds of Staff and Campers laughing, smiling, and engaging their faith in a real and vibrant way. As words fail to accurately describe our indescribable God, they also fail to describe a real and true experience of Him. Therefore, the last four weeks of the Retreat Center’s life cannot be put into words. However, falling short of describing the true Joy that was lived this summer, we will summarize it the only way that seems remotely appropriate; Fanari has found a home in the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, and the St. Iakovos Retreat Center has been brought to life through Fanari.
Both of these realities have been through the blood, sweat and tears of so many throughout the Chicago Metropolis. All who dedicated their time, talents and treasures to the building up of both of these ministries. The existence of these ministries is made possible through the unwavering guidance and love of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos.
The late Fr. William Chiganos, a spiritual giant of Fanari, and the man upon who’s back the program itself was literally built, passed away just before he could see that which he loved and worked so hard for, finally come home. However, Director Nick Kirkeles reminded us all “that this is a place that he would be really pleased to see; a place where Orthodox Christians and young people can put away the rest of the world… Come and be apart of something based in faith, on love and in friendship.”
We look forward to Fanari 2016 with much Joy and anticipation, and as our halls quiet and the sun sets on Fanari 2015, we say to all the campers and staff “Every time I think of you, I thank my God” – Philippians 1:3
Live everyday of this monumentus journey through the Fanari Blog
See every moment of action through the Fanari FlickR
A special thanks to all the campers who participated in this historical year, as well as all the staff who gave not only of their time, but of themselves to this unique ministry. A special thanks to Directors Dcn. Chris Avramopoulos & Nick Kirkeles as well as the core staff Diakonissa Nicole, Maria Pentaris and Alex Magdalinos who work tirelessly year-round to make this ministry possible. We appreciate you!!!!
It is no secret that one of the goals behind purchasing and building the St. Iakovos Retreat Center was so that the wildly successful Fanari Camping Program would finally have a place to call its own. Fanari has been in existence for over 40 years and literally changed the lives of thousands of campers. In 2015, this programs will move for its final time to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, a place that it will call home for generations to come.
Take this EPIC journey with us through the Fanari Blog and see all the photos via the FANARI FLICKR
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.
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
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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
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.
