Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church - Chicago

Illinois, USA

We are excited about the sound of the Rodgers 578 installed in May of 2012 at Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church.  The custom finish console replaces a 1970 Allen digital organ. It should be noted that the Rodgers 578, with its divided expression and expanded combination action, has opened new doors for more expressive music. We should also note that the church has a marvelous acoustic for all types of music with brick & concrete surfaces. After some experimentation with speaker locations, we have found a solution that allows the congregation and choir to participate fully in sung praises. The end result of this is a spectacular organ installation. We truly value the collaboration we have had with the musicians of this Parish who are very appreciative of our efforts to assist their ministry.

Background Information

The architectural design is a contemporary interpretation of the classic Byzantine style. The building incorporates traditional forms with a present day interpretation. Architect Edward D. Dart accomplished this by extensive study, research, and travel throughout Greece and the Middle East. The primary use of just three basic materials (concrete, brick and wood) resulted in an impressive and distinctive church building. The interior of the church building features magnificent mosaic icons, designed by Sirio Tonelli Fine Art Studios. In 1966, Holy Apostles was one of sixteen Chicago area buildings that received Honor Awards and Citations of Merit, from the Chicago Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, for outstanding architectural achievements. On Sunday, September 13, 1964 the cornerstone was set, followed by the long anticipated "Opening of the Doors" on Sunday, June 27, 1965.

In 1973, the exquisite icons, designed by the Tonelli Studio, were added to the Baptistry. In 1975, an icon of the Twelve Apostles was created on the ceiling dome in the exonarthex. Additional striking mosaics of the Crucifixion and Anastasis were completed in 1981. During the 1990s additional mosaic icons, designed by Tonelli were installed and it is anticipated that several more will be added over the next few years.

William S. Chiganos, Protopresbyter
Rev. Nicholas Georgiou, Presbyter
Mr. Nick Paloumpis, Director of Music