LOMBARD, IL-
Delegates representing all 58 parishes throughout the Metropolis of Chicago gathered for a Special Clergy-Laity Assembly on April 1 and overwhelmingly voted to authorize the Metropolis to negotiate and finalize the purchase of a new Metropolis Center at 1015 North LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610, from Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
According to a press release by the Metropolis of Chicago, additionally, the delegates authorized the Metropolis to negotiate and finalize the lease of a portion of the property to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
The $700,000 acquisition will be financed through restricted funds from the sale of the property at 40 East Burton Place in 2022, supplemented by additional income generated through the Metropolis’ investment strategies and donations. The delegates’ approval follows similar votes by the Metropolis Council and the Annunciation Cathedral stewards in support of the purchase and lease transactions.
“Our community at the Cathedral is gratified to know this agreement has the confidence of clergy and laity across our Holy Metropolis. While there is still hard work ahead, we enthusiastically look forward to the opportunity to serve and uplift our Metropolis communities, including the City of Chicago, through our faith, people, and outreach,” said Jonathan Bacon, Parish Council President at Annunciation Cathedral.
The transaction will proceed under the guidance of the Metropolis of Chicago Real Estate Committee, in close consultation with His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael and the Metropolis Council. The purchase and associated lease agreements remain subject to approval by the Archdiocesan Executive Committee. Pending municipal permits and current design and construction schedules, the Metropolis anticipates closing on the property in the second quarter of 2025, with occupancy planned for the second quarter of 2026.
“I offer heartfelt thanks to our delegates for their trust and commitment as we take this vital step together to establish our Metropolis Center—a new spiritual home that will foster collaboration with the Cathedral, our clergy and laity, and the broader community. This milestone reflects God’s enduring blessing on our Metropolis, guiding us to remain centered in Christ, focused on our parishes, and welcoming to all people,” said His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael.
