TARPON SPRINGS, FL — [Photo: St. Nicholas Cathedral]
The Parish Council of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral has approved plans to move forward with a landmark restoration and renovation initiative under the banner of “A Legacy of Faith, A Future of Hope.” This historic campaign marks a defining moment for one of America’s most beloved and iconic Orthodox landmarks.
According to a press release by the parish, “the campaign will be guided by a Capital Campaign Cabinet chaired by Dr. Michael Pikos, Mr. John Lulias, and Mr. Efthimios (Tim) Klimis, who bring a deep love for the Cathedral and a shared vision for its renewal. Together with parish leadership and volunteers, they will lead the effort to engage parishioners and friends in restoring and preserving St. Nicholas for generations to come”.
While the primary focus of the campaign is restoring the Cathedral, plans also include significant renovations to Fr. Tryfon Hall and the St. Nicholas Community Center, ensuring that all parish facilities continue to serve as places of worship, fellowship, and ministry for years to come.
The campaign is now in its Leadership and Advanced Gift Phase, seeking early commitments from parish leaders and faithful friends whose generosity will help build restoration momentum and inspire broader participation. Already, more than $1 million has been committed toward this effort. Discussions are underway to engage an architect and to solicit competitive bids from qualified contractors.
A public launch of the campaign is anticipated for Spring 2026, when the entire parish community will be invited to take part in this sacred journey of faith and renewal.
“This campaign is not only necessary for the future of our Cathedral—it is a unifying call to our entire community,” said Rev. Athanasios Haros, Cathedral Dean. “Through this effort, we have the opportunity to come together as one family in faith, to preserve what our ancestors built, and to strengthen the spiritual home that will serve our children and grandchildren for generations to come.”
As part of the campaign, naming opportunities are available for those wishing to make a lasting impact. Donors may honor or memorialize loved ones by making gifts that help beautify, restore, and sustain the sacred spaces of St. Nicholas. These meaningful tributes will ensure that future generations remember the faith and devotion of those who came before them.
As St. Nicholas embarks on this sacred journey, the community is invited to pray for the campaign’s success and for all those involved.
“Please pray for us as we move forward in faith—honoring our past, embracing the present, and building a future filled with hope”, concludes the press release.
For more information about the A Legacy of Faith, A Future of Hope Capital Campaign, including naming opportunities and ways to participate, you should call the Cathedral Office at (727) 937-3540 or visit www.stnicholastarpon.org.
