Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Justice
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Justice serves the Orthodox Christian community of Justice, Illinois, offering regular worship services and preserving Greek Orthodox faith, traditions, and community life in the region.
Clergy:
Church Type:
Parish
Denomination:
Greek Orthodox
Metropolis:
Metropolis of Chicago
Affiliation:
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Ecumenical Patriarch:
Bartholomew I of Constantinople
Clergy Information updated Jan 2026
History
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Justice, Illinois owes its existence principally to the remarkable determination of one woman. Mrs. Katherine Kokkinos had been the driving force behind the Argo-Summit Women's Club since the 1930s, and in May 1955 she led the organization to obtain a state Charter as a nonprofit, laying the groundwork for what she envisioned: a Greek Orthodox church to serve the southwest suburban communities of Chicago. After meetings with Bishop Ezekiel, the community began fundraising in the autumn of 1960, with approximately 125 families rallying to the cause. The women held a dinner dance that fall, collecting pledges and donations. Mrs. Kokkinos herself suggested the name Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.
In 1959, Father Andrew Kleomenakis from the Assumption Church had celebrated Easter Liturgical Services during Holy Week in a local hall, drawing an enthusiastic response that confirmed the community's readiness. The purchase of a Church of God building at 5417 South Hunt in Summit was finalized in February 1961, along with the house next door, which was renovated with school desks and chairs obtained from Graves Elementary School in Argo to serve both the Greek School, named Sophocles by its godfather Mr. Michael Nickolaou, and Sunday School. The unofficial opening was celebrated on March 2, 1961 with Great Vesper Services, and the first Divine Liturgy followed on Sunday, March 5, 1961, with Father Chrysostom Selimos as proistamenos and the first Parish Council elected with John Muros as president.
Through the following decades the parish grew steadily, enriched by the beautiful iconography completed by Shirley Contos and the sustained pastoral leadership of successive priests. The community eventually relocated to its present home at 7560 South Archer Road in Justice, where it continues to serve the faithful of the southwest suburbs.
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church at 7560 South Archer Road in Justice serves the Orthodox Christian faithful of the southwest Chicago suburbs as a parish of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago within the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, a community whose founding spirit was captured in a single woman's vision and the determination of 125 families who turned that vision into a reality.
This page serves as a reference resource for Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Justice, providing essential information such as location, contact details, clergy, and church affiliation. It is intended to help visitors and members of the Orthodox Christian community easily find accurate parish information in one place.
How to Get To Holy Cross
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register as a member at a Greek Orthodox parish?
Parish membership is generally established by registering with the church office. Each parish may have its own process for enrollment and participation in parish life.
Can I attend services if I am not a registered member of the parish?
Greek Orthodox churches welcome visitors and non-members to attend services. Participation in sacraments may require coordination with the parish and priest.
How do I contact the parish priest for pastoral matters?
Pastoral requests are typically handled by the parish priest. The parish office can assist with contact details and help coordinate appointments or inquiries.
How do I register to baptize my child in the Greek Orthodox Church?
Baptism requests are handled by the local parish. The church will usually require documentation from the parents and godparent, along with coordination with the priest to schedule the baptism.
How do I request a wedding date at my Greek Orthodox church?
Wedding dates are scheduled through the parish office and priest. Availability depends on the church calendar, fasting periods, and parish guidelines, so it is recommended to inquire well in advance.
How do I obtain a copy of my Greek Orthodox marriage certificate?
Marriage certificates are typically issued by the church where the sacrament took place. To request a copy, contact the parish office directly and ask what information or identification is required.
How do I obtain a copy of my Greek Orthodox baptismal certificate?
Baptismal certificates are typically issued by the church where the baptism took place. To request a copy, contact the parish office directly and ask what information or identification is required.
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