LOMBARD, IL –
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago announced today that it has formally withdrawn its offer to acquire the property located at 1015 North LaSalle Drive in Chicago, currently owned by the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
As the Metropolis states in a press release, “over the past several months, both the Metropolis and the Cathedral engaged in a respectful and constructive dialogue. Despite sincere efforts and notable progress in several areas, the parties were ultimately unable to reach an agreement on key terms—particularly those related to the timeline needed to ensure the project’s viability and to obtain the necessary approval from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America”.
“From the outset, we approached the opportunity to establish a Metropolis presence on the Cathedral campus with prayerful discernment and great care,” said Nick T. Boosalis, Chair of the Metropolis Real Estate Committee. “But we also sought to create something greater: a dynamic and unified spiritual campus in the heart of Chicago—a place where the historic Cathedral would be strengthened and renewed as the ecclesial and spiritual center of the Metropolis. While we are grateful for the meaningful conversations that took place, the timing challenges proved insurmountable. Though we had hoped for a different outcome, we trust that, by God’s grace, this experience will help lead us to a path that best serves the clergy and faithful of our Holy Metropolis.”
According to the press release, the Metropolis of Chicago remains firmly committed to a transparent and inclusive process as it continues its pursuit of an administrative home. The Metropolis expresses its heartfelt appreciation to all those who participated in the dialogue and supported the discernment process. The Real Estate Committee will now turn its attention to evaluating alternative opportunities that will support the long-term mission and ministry of the Metropolis.
