Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, New York

Annunciation Church, a magnificent place of worship in New York City's Upper West Side, holds a special significance for the Greek Orthodox community, many of whom are descendants of Greek immigrants who journeyed to America. Originally constructed in 1894 as the Fourth Presbyterian Church, the Greek Orthodox Church acquired the building and made it their own on March 25th, 1953, coinciding with the Feast of the Annunciation of Christ, from which the church derives its name.

The initial architectural marvel of the church was its unique lighting system, employing a combination of gas and electricity. A clever arrangement of vents allowed the gas to dissipate while a single flint switch illuminated the entire space, showcasing the building's advanced engineering for its time.

Ascending to the loft, visitors are treated to a captivating view of the magnificent pipe organ, one of the few remaining tonally unaltered organs designed by E.M. Skinner.

The congregation also commissioned a splendid iconostasis screen, meticulously carved from linden and lime tree wood by the esteemed Byzantine-style woodcarver Theophanis Nomikos in Greece. To adorn the screen, the New York-based iconographer Konstantinos Youssis skillfully hand-painted a collection of icons, further enriching the church's visual splendor.

However, the most intriguing aspect of Annunciation Church lies in its mystical history. According to local lore, one of the priests experienced a visitation from Saint Xenia, a lesser-known saint. Overwhelmed by the encounter, the priest hesitated to share his experience, fearing disbelief in the modern era. Nevertheless, he embarked on research and confirmed the existence of Saint Xenia. In his vision, the saint requested him to paint her icon. Honoring her request, the priest painted the icon, which now occupies a special place within the sanctuary, serving as a testament to the parish's history and the remarkable encounter.