Baltimore Greek Orthodox Cathedral Begins $7.5 Million Restoration

BALTIMORE, MD — The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, a cornerstone of Baltimore’s Greek Orthodox community for nearly a century, is undergoing a $7.5 million renovation aimed at preserving its historic campus while preparing it to serve future generations. This was first reported by the local FOX station in Baltimore.

The project’s first phase focuses on the Father George P. Gallos Education Building, which has been under reconstruction since March. Workers are transforming the 1960s-era facility so it can welcome students back this fall, with additional improvements planned as part of a broader, multi-phase initiative. Church leaders say the investment is intended to strengthen both the parish and its role in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon neighborhood.

The cathedral itself traces its roots to a Romanesque church building constructed in 1887. After the Greek Orthodox community purchased the property in 1937, the building became Maryland’s first Greek Orthodox church. According to Presiding Priest Fr. George Mastakas, the landmark narrowly escaped demolition decades ago, including a proposal to replace it with a gas station.

For Parish Council President Georgeann Morekas, the restoration is also a family legacy. Her grandfather and father both served as parish council presidents, making her the third generation to hold the position. Having attended classes in the education building as a child, she said the renovation will allow future generations to build their own memories while ensuring the cathedral remains a spiritual and cultural center for the wider community.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Bartholomew inspected renovation work at Halki Theological School.