HOBE SOUND, FL. – [Archive photos: St. John Chrysostom Parish]
What began as a simple idea among a handful of families has grown into a vibrant and enduring faith community serving Martin County and beyond.
More than three decades ago, local families set out with a vision: to establish a Greek Orthodox church closer to home. At the time, the nearest parishes were located in West Palm Beach and Fort Pierce, leaving a gap for Orthodox families living in Martin County.
That vision took root in 1990, when Murad and Katherine Coury, along with John and Joanna Laskaris, began gathering interest from the community. Meetings were held, funds were raised, and momentum steadily built, often centered around the original Flamingo Restaurant in Stuart, owned by the Laskaris family.
After years of persistence and growing support, their efforts were formally recognized on November 13, 2002, when Bishop Alexios of Atlanta granted approval to establish what would become St. John Chrysostom Greek Orthodox Church.
Just a few months later, on January 26, 2003, the church held its first Divine Liturgy in a modest 1,500-square-foot storefront on U.S. 1 in Stuart.
Today, that same spirit of determination and faith continues to guide the parish as it looks toward an exciting new chapter.
Building for the Future
The church has since acquired property on U.S. 1 in Hobe Sound, where plans are now underway to construct a permanent place of worship. On March 20, 2026, site plans and architectural drawings were officially submitted to Martin County for review.
“This is something our community has worked toward for many years,” said Katherine Coury, a founding member and current president of the parish. “It represents not just a building, but a home for future generations.”
Adding to this milestone year, the newly installed Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta is scheduled to visit the parish on April 9, 2026, coinciding with Orthodox Holy Thursday, to offer his blessing.
A Growing Community Rooted in Tradition
As the only Greek Orthodox Church serving Martin County and surrounding areas, St. John Chrysostom has become a spiritual home for families across the Treasure Coast. The parish continues to welcome individuals of all backgrounds, offering a place to gather, worship, and connect through shared faith and tradition.
The church also remains committed to community outreach, unity among Orthodox Christians of all backgrounds, and preserving the rich traditions of the Eastern Orthodox faith.
An Invitation to the Community
As the parish moves forward with its plans, leaders say the mission remains the same as it was in the beginning: to serve, to grow, and to welcome.
“This church was built on community,” Coury added. “And it will continue to grow because of it.”
About St. John Chrysostom Greek Orthodox Church
St. John Chrysostom Greek Orthodox Church serves Martin County and surrounding areas, including parts of Palm Beach, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee Counties. The Very Reverend Fr. Andrew Mahalares serves as the parish priest.
Established in 2002 and holding its first Divine Liturgy in 2003, the church is now located in Hobe Sound, where plans are underway to build a permanent place of worship. The parish welcomes all Orthodox Christians and those interested in the faith. Its Philoptochos ministry is active in community outreach, including feeding the hungry, supporting single mothers, providing school supplies, and assisting veterans.
For more information about St. John Chrysostom Greek Orthodox Church, its services, or future plans, visit saintjohn.fl.goarch.org
