The project property in Libertyville has been owned by the Waukegan parish for 25 years. Eventually deciding to move to be closer to the majority of its parishioners in Lake County, this thriving St. Demetrios community with more than 250 families continues its 83-year history in a new location. And with its spectacular new building officially open, all eyes seem to be on the future.

The new temple for the Parish of St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church was completed in 2008 with the Thyranoixia, or door-opening, being celebrated by over 700 stewards and other attendees on April 13th. Topped by a dramatic golden Millennium stainless steel dome and cross rising 75 feet from the ground, the church dominates the landscape and is visible from I-94. The dome was constructed on the ground and lifted into place by three cranes on Sept 21st, 2007. It was then finished off with the standing seam Millennium roof. Due to the unique properties of the alloy, the colors and appearance of the dome change with the weather and is alternately soft and glowing or a bright and shiny gold.
Covering 9,000 square feet, the Stone and brick trimmed St. Demetrios sanctuary offers seating for 500. The temple’s inspiration comes from traditional 5th century Byzantine cross-in-square design but constructed with modern technology including pre-fabricated GFRG panels and trim, precast dome window surrounds and a Dufferin Stone exterior. Entering in through the 10 foot high bronze-clad doors, the temple walls and dome are shades of white and cream designed to allow for future iconography. The millwork incorporates ornate wood and gilt fixtures for the altar and sacristy transferred from the original church.
The first Phase of “A” connected to the new temple is 5,000 Square Foot fellowship hall that was completed first and housed services and church functions until the church temple was completed.