His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios, Congressman Gus Bilirakis and many other city officials join in celebration

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios, Congressman Gus Bilirakis and many other city officials join in celebration:

The “Foundation Ceremony” of the Domed Basilica of St. Raphael Church: An Exceptional Fusion of Byzantine and Basilica Styles

 BEGINS CONSTRUCTION!

On Friday, January 5^th at 3:00, we will gather from near and far: from neighboring towns, from across the country, and even from across oceans to bear witness, all together, to celebrate the beginnings of a new landmark -of the construction of the first Orthodox church in the United States that honors these three newly manifested, miracle-working saints, and the only parish in the country to permanently enshrine the Holy Relics of all three saints.

The celebration will include the “Foundation Ceremony” followed by delicious complimentary Greek delicacies and pastries for all.

Saints Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Orthodox Church is far more than just bricks and mortar. The church shines as a beacon of faith shedding its light throughout the Palm Harbor community, to Tampa Bay, and beyond. It is a symbol of our unity and cooperation as we come together with one purpose: to serve, worship, and glorify God with faith, with love, and with compassion towards all and a resilient dedication of the community that suffered from a devastating fire just three years ago.

Ten craftsmen have come from Greece with working VISA’s and have begun the great task of building a true basilica with ten inch concreter walls.  The construction is almost meticulously hand woven with great detail and of structuring the most sustainable building that will withstand the elements for centuries.  Saints Raphael Nicholas and Irene stands as a symbol of synergy. It is a testament of harmony and co-creation, illuminating faith and love across space and time for generations to come.

We welcome all to become a part of this historical event, a chance to become part of a living fabric, woven over centuries with unbreakable threads of love and faith.