Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
Photo: orthodoxobserver.org
LOMBARD, IL — The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has announced the receipt of a historic $2.9 million bequest from the Estate of Andy Efthim, a longtime parishioner of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in St. Louis and a devoted member of the Metropolis of Chicago. Mr. Efthim, who passed away on May 10, 2025, also designated gifts to the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Foundation of St. Louis and International Orthodox Christian Charities.
The bequest is the largest single gift ever received by the Metropolis of Chicago or its affiliated institutions. Foundation President John Koudounis said the gift will strengthen the Church’s mission for generations. Met. Nathanael praised Mr. Efthim’s humility, faith, and quiet service.
Invested under strict endowment policies, the funds will support long-term clergy development, ministries, camps, and parish needs once distribution thresholds are met.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Holy Cross had received a $7.5 Million Lilly Endowment grant to revamp priestly formation.
Read also
ROCOR Priest Reflects on Trip to Capitol Hill
Archpriest Victor Boldewskul participated in the Society of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco's Day of Action to raise awareness about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Hundreds of Chinese Christians Arrested in Pre-Christmas Crackdown
Hundreds of Chinese Christians face spending Christmas in detention after authorities launched a sweeping pre-holiday crackdown on churches under Beijing’s campaign to control religious life.
Ukraine Adviser: UOC Not Banned, but Offered a 'Choice' of Jurisdictions
A Ukrainian presidential adviser said the UOC is not banned but pressured to choose between joining the OCU, submitting to Constantinople, or remaining unregistered, while dismissing international concerns as propaganda.
Indiana Reports 98% Drop in Abortions Under Stricter Law
Indiana’s latest health report shows a 98% drop in reported abortions under stricter laws, though dozens still occurred under legal exceptions and concerns persist about unreported pill abortions.
Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
The Armenian Apostolic Church plans to appeal to international bodies to resist government interference and defend its clergy and sacred relics.
Attempted Takeover at Armenian Etchmiadzin Cathedral Thwarted by Faithful
Supporters of Armenian PM Pashinyan attempted to storm Etchmiadzin Cathedral amid calls for the Catholicos’s resignation but were blocked by parishioners and security.