November 1, 2025

As we approach the end of the year, the Cathedral’s Capital Campaign continues to advance with faith, purpose, and steady progress. Renovation plans for the Father G. Gallos Education Building are moving towards final approval, with schedules and costs being refined in preparation for construction to begin in the first quarter of the new year.

This fall marked an important milestone as we entered the parish-wide phase of the campaign. Pledge packets were distributed following the Divine Liturgies on September 28 and October 5, and those not picked up were mailed shortly thereafter. The response has been strong and deeply encouraging towards the $10 million goal. We have now reached $6.5 million in pledges and verbal commitments, a testament to the generosity and devotion of our beloved Cathedral family.

While this is remarkable progress, we must keep the momentum going. We especially encourage those who have already attended a presentation, home gathering, or one-on-one conversation to prayerfully finalize and return their pledge in the coming week. Each response, at every level, is vital to our success.  As we enter the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, a time of gratitude and giving, let us come together as one community, unified in giving and equal in sacrifice, each doing our part to bring this vision to life. For those who would like more information before making a commitment, please reach out to Fr. George or the Campaign Committee to schedule a conversation. You may email alltogethercc@annunciation.org or call the Cathedral office for assistance.

Our next milestone will be Participation Sunday, scheduled for Sunday, November 16, following the Divine Liturgy. On that day, we will lovingly encourage those who have not yet made their commitment to join in this historic effort, so that every member of our family of faith has the opportunity to take part in our shared success.

The All Together Capital Campaign benefits from strong planning, dedicated parish leadership, and broad participation across our community. The commitment of our clergy, parish council, campaign committee, and numerous volunteers, along with the steadfast generosity of our parishioners, reflects a united vision to strengthen and grow the Cathedral’s mission.

We extend heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed their time, prayers, and resources. Together, we build not only for today, but in celebration of the proud heritage and enduring faith that unite us as the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of our region, ensuring it remains a place of faith, learning, and fellowship for generations to come.  OLI MAZI!

October 12, 2025

Education Building Renovation and Capital Campaign Update

In November 2023, the Parish Assembly approved a resolution authorizing a $10 million Capital Campaign to support the renewal of our Cathedral campus, with the following priorities: Phase 1, being the complete renovation of the Education Building at a cost of $6.5 million, and Phase 2, $3.5 million towards the restoration of the five vacant Preston Street properties for parish and community use.  

Over the past year, the Cathedral has engaged a talented team to bring this vision to life: UDG as architect, Engenium as mechanical and electrical engineer, Baird & Associates as owner’s representative, Whiting-Turner as Construction Manager, and Greater Mission for fundraising support. Together, these partners have been working in close collaboration with our Parish Council, the Campaign Committee and the design/engineering workgroup to ensure a thoughtful, well-coordinated, and fiscally responsible process.

As is the case across the construction industry, current preliminary cost estimates reflect modest increases over initial projections due to ongoing inflation in materials and labor. Construction costs have continued to rise by 5–7% annually, largely driven by tariffs on steel, iron, and aluminum, continued high demand for construction materials, and increased labor costs for skilled trades. Even so, our committees are taking proactive steps to manage these variables and keep the project within prudent financial limits. Through value engineering and detailed design review, the project team is refining materials, finishes, and methods to achieve the best possible balance of quality, stewardship, and long-term value.  

Construction documents are nearing completion, with competitive bidding scheduled this fall and a final guaranteed maximum price expected in mid-late November. With these adjustments, the project remains on track to begin construction in early 2026.

As of October 9, $6.1 million has been raised toward the campaign goal, a tremendous testament to the generosity and commitment of our parish family, be we aren’t done yet! We continue to secure additional gifts, invite broad participation from every parish household, and pursue foundation grants to strengthen our efforts. Work is also progressing with financial institutions to arrange bridge financing, ensuring construction can move forward while pledge commitments are fulfilled over the next five years.

October 6, 2025

Rooted in faith and unity as a parish, the All Together Capital Campaign has entered a truly exciting new phase. We have now invited all parishioners and the broader community to prayerfully consider participating through gifts and pledges that will shape the future of our Cathedral and its ministries.

On September 25 and October 5, we held Participation Sundays following the Divine Liturgy. Those in attendance heard inspirational words from Father George and two parishioners, then received their personalized campaign packets. The response was one of tremendous enthusiasm, encouragement, and growing momentum. For anyone who was not able to be present, the remaining packets will now be mailed so that every household has the opportunity to join in this important effort.

As of October 1, we are humbled to share that we have raised $6,009,446. This extraordinary generosity has allowed us to meet the estimated cost of renovating the Education Building.  Undoubtedly, this is an important milestone worth celebrating! Yet, our journey is not finished. The overall campaign goal is $10 million which will allow us to transform the Preston Street row homes. It will also strengthen and grow the Cathedral’s endowment, safeguarding our ministries and mission for generations to come.

We will be holding a Capital Campaign Town Hall on Sunday, October 19, during coffee hour in the AHEPA Room, giving all parishioners the opportunity to ask questions. Our next significant milestone will be Participation Weekend, culminating after the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, November 2. On that day, we will lovingly encourage those who have not yet made their commitment to do so, ensuring that every member of our Cathedral family be part of this sacred work.

With faith, unity, and generosity, we are building not only for today, but for the faithful who will follow and continue to worship, learn, and serve here. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide our efforts, and may we each respond with open hearts as stewards of Christ’s Church.

Together, and with God’s help, we will succeed.  OLI MAZI!

September 7, 2025

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN WITNESS SUNDAYS

The next stage of the Capital Campaign begins with Witness Sundays, to be held on September 28, 2025 and October 5, 2025.  On these Sundays, parishioners will receive a personalized informational packet that explains the vision and phased goals of the campaign in detail, and invites each household to prayerfully consider its participation.  These Sundays mark the first time our entire community will be fully engaged in the giving drive, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be part of this historic effort. Your prayers, support, and involvement will be vital as we move forward, all together.

June 30, 2025

We’re excited to share that the All Together/Oli Mazi Capital Campaign has reached a significant milestone: over $4.9 million has been raised to date. With additional pledges expected soon, we anticipate crossing the halfway mark of our $10 million goal. This strong early momentum reflects the generosity and shared vision of our parish family. To stay on track with construction plans for the Education Building, it is vital that we reach our Phase One target of $6 million. We are deeply grateful to all who have already made a commitment and look forward to building on this foundation in the months ahead.

Beginning in the second half of July and continuing through September, the campaign will enter a new phase through a series of small home gatherings. These informal events will offer parishioners a chance to learn more about the project in a personal and conversational setting. More than simply fundraising, they are about connection, shared understanding, and unity of purpose. If you would like to host or, more importantly, attend one of these gatherings, please email us at alltogethercc@annunciationbaltimore.org.

Following interviews with three construction firms, the Parish Council has selected Whiting-Turner as the construction manager for Phase One, based on qualifications, proposed fees, and timeline. Meetings have also been held with representatives from various Cathedral ministries to gather input on functionality, space needs, and priorities. That feedback is now helping shape final design plans. Meanwhile, the architectural team at UDG is leading the permitting process as we prepare for the next phase of construction.

Earlier this month, we were honored to welcome representatives from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation to the Cathedral, an international organization that has pledged a matching grant of $300,000 towards our education building. They met with Fr. George, Parish Council President Georgeann Morekas, and the campaign co-chairs.  The group toured our campus and received an update on fundraising and construction planning. They were quite pleased with the progress and expressed strong encouragement for the work being done.

We encourage everyone to regularly visit this website for the latest updates, FAQs, renderings, and ways to participate. Together, we are building not just a renewed campus, but a renewed commitment to our community and future. And finally, we invite you to share a short video testimonial about what the Cathedral means to you. Your voice can help inspire others as we continue moving forward.  Please upload your video by using the QR code provided below.  All Together!

May 21, 2025

Thanks to the generous support of our community and God’s blessings, we have currently raised $4.8 million toward our goal of $10 million.

Design and Construction Milestones: After countless hours of hard work and collaboration among numerous committees, we are thrilled to share that we are now entering a pivotal stage of the campaign in the Design and Construction phase. These dedicated committees have worked tirelessly to plan and prepare, ensuring that every detail is accounted for as we move forward.

We are pleased to share key milestone dates in the coming weeks:

• May 13, 2025: RFP (Request for Proposal) issued to Construction Managers

• May 22, 2025: Pre-Bid Walk with Construction Manager candidates

• May 29, 2025: Construction Manager Proposals due

• June 12, 2025: Construction Manager Interviews

These dates mark the beginning of a new chapter as we transition from planning to action, bringing our vision one step closer to reality. It is crucial that we meet our Phase One target goal of $6 million in order to stay on track with these and future milestone dates. Your support is key to making that happen.

Campaign Presentations & Outreach

Capital campaign representatives were welcomed in presenting the campaign during April’s Hrisi Parea gathering and in May to the Worthington Chapter of AHEPA. The feedback was tremendously supportive, with attendees expressing enthusiasm for the thoughtful planning and organization driving this initiative. Many were pleasantly surprised to learn how much progress has been made and left feeling confident that this vision is becoming a reality—sooner than many had imagined!

We are eager to present to other organizations and ministries of the church. If your group is interested, please reach out to Father George or a committee member, or send us an email at alltogethercc@annunciationbaltimore.org.

Learn More and Stay Connected

We look forward to continuing this journey with you as we move closer to realizing our Cathedral community’s bright future. Additional parish-wide events will be happening this Fall.  Thank you for your ongoing support, generosity, and prayers.  OLI MAZI!

April 14, 2025

During Great Lent, the Capital Campaign committee has continued their efforts in many exciting ways including hosting coffee hour on April 6th. Our youth joined the Campaign committee members as hosts and their support was greatly appreciated. A big thank you to the many parishioners on our volunteer committee for contributing food.

We also had the privilege of making a short presentation at the Hrisi Parea gathering on April 8th where we shared a Campaign video, provided updates and invited small groups of friends and family to set up a meeting with Father George.

Please let us know by contacting us at alltogethercc@annunciationbaltimore.org if you would like to schedule your meeting to learn more about the Campaign or would like to host a Campaign gathering. We will soon feature a video on the website so please check in again soon.

February 9, 2025 Announcement Sunday

Campaign co-chairs, Karen and George Philippou announced the public launch of the Capital Campaign. One of many milestones, a Campaign banner was unveiled on the exterior of the Cathedral.

Currently, there are 3 different ways to support the Campaign as a volunteer. Volunteer cards are available in the Cathedral’s vestibule on the welcome table. Once filled out, please leave the cards in the designated box or email us at alltogethercc@annunciationbaltimore.org.

Prayer Partner: we ask that you pray that God opens our hearts so that we can feel His love through our generosity and our service to others

Hospitality Team: be part of our hospitality team that will help with several parish-wide events this Spring and Summer

Host Event by Personal Invitation: consider hosting a small gathering of family and close friends in your home in support of the Campaign

In the days and months ahead, we will be sharing a packet with each family containing Campaign materials for your prayerful consideration. After which point, your pledge will be welcomed.

January 29, 2025

We are excited to announce the next phase of the All Together/Oli Mazi Capital Campaign, named in honor of the spirit of unity. Join us on Sunday, February 9th following Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral, where opportunities for participation will be announced.

This campaign is an essential step in securing the future of our historic Cathedral—not only to modernize our facilities, but to ensure the continued growth and well-being of our ministries and philanthropic efforts. Your support will help us sustain our sacred mission, strengthen our community, and make a lasting impact for generations to come.

We invite you to come together as we take this important step forward in the life of our church. Your participation and renewed generosity will play a key role in shaping the future of our beloved Cathedral.

We look forward to seeing you there!

January 6, 2025 Status Update

Education Building Plans

The Cathedral’s Owner’s Representative, Lou Baird, and an “ad hoc” committee established by the Parish Council (consisting of members of the Building & Maintenance Committee, the Capital Campaign Committee, and the Executive Committee), have held numerous meetings with Urban Design Group (UDG) to review conceptual drawings for the Education Building renovation. The Parish Council is finalizing its review and approval of the contract with the mechanical engineer, Engenium, with anticipated approval by late January/early February. UDG is prepared to issue the next phase of drawings (Design Development set), after receiving and incorporating the engineered drawings from Engenium.   

After issuance, review and approval of UDG’s Design Development set, the plans will be circulated to a list of 3-4 qualified construction managers, who will be interviewed by Mr. Baird and the “ad hoc” committee on their qualifications, fees for pre-construction services and during construction (including general conditions). Upon conclusion of the interviews, a recommendation will be provided to the Parish Council to retain a construction manager, initially to provide pre-construction advisory services during the design and planning phase.

General Updates

The Capital Campaign Committee has created two subcommittees that have been working diligently over the last few months. The Marketing and Communication Subcommittee has been working to produce presentation and marketing materials, improve the Campaign’s dedicated website alltogethercc.org, and begin filming video footage to be used for various Campaign purposes. The Donor Solicitation Subcommittee has been holding engagement sessions with Cathedral stakeholders to obtain their feedback and counsel on the Campaign before beginning the broader outreach to our greater community.

The Capital Campaign Committee looks forward to launching a more visible phase, and sharing additional progress with our parishioners, in the near future.

November 17, 2024 (Posting updated January 6, 2025)

The Capital Campaign co-chairs presented an update on the progress being made by the Campaign Committee in coordination with the Cathedral’s leadership. Attendees were briefed on the next three (3) phases of the project, now that the foundational phase (AOC renovation) is complete. The next phase will be the complete renovation of the Father George P. Gallos Education Building, followed by the transformation of the Preston Street rowhouses. Conceptual renderings of both project phases were shown, which are also available on the newly launched campaign website, alltogethercc.org. 

The third phase of the campaign is to strengthen the Cathedral’s endowment, in order to ensure our ministries' important work continues long into the future.

An update was provided on dollars raised thus far. To date, including the $691,000 balance from the prior campaign, the Campaign has received $2.5 million in donations and pledges towards the $6 million goal for the Education Building. A professional consultant has also been retained. Tom Sonni of Greater Missionspecializes in fundraising for religious institutions and is advising on the campaign as it gets into gear in January. 

The Campaign co-chairs officially announced the exciting news of a grant opportunity from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, which has awarded the Cathedral a $300,000 conditional grant (provided that matching donations are made, and all other necessary funds are raised by December 31, 2025). We are honored by this international organization’s recognition of the meaningful work taking place through our Cathedral’s ministries, and it provides an important catalyst for the fundraising ahead!  

In closing, the co-chairs emphasized the importance of this Campaign to our Cathedral, and how we can no longer kick the can down the road. The goal is bold but can be successfully achieved by the renewed and collective generosity of our entire community. All Together!

November 12, 2024

The Capital Campaign Committee and subcommittee members have met and are actively working on numerous fronts. Preparation in advance of the official campaign launch progresses in partnership with the Parish Council and its committees.

An architectural firm was selected to complete design documents for the Education Building construction project. Through a competitive selection process, the Parish Council unanimously chose Urban Design Group (UDG), a local firm based in Baltimore City. A kickoff meeting with UDG was held on October 2 and the design process is underway.

As noted in our prior update, repair and replacement projects were identified by the Building & Maintenance Committee, particularly those critical to the Cathedral’s infrastructure. Repair work has begun and is near completion on the exterior masonry and roof along Maryland Avenue and the Cathedral’s northern facade. These repairs are intended to address moisture-related issues impacting our sanctuary’s interior walls. The next project is the installation of the hot water heater. A potential replacement of the boiler system is being assessed in coordination with the new HVAC system being engineered for the Education Building renovations.

In closing, a Capital Campaign presentation with further updates is scheduled for the General Assembly Meeting on Sunday, November 17th. Please make plans to attend as we move forward on this transformational journey for our Cathedral and its parishioners. All Together!