Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Birmingham

Located in Birmingham’s Five Points South neighborhood, the Holy Trinity–Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral stands as one of the most historically significant Greek Orthodox churches in the United States. Founded in 1902 and holding its first liturgy in 1907, it is the third oldest Greek Orthodox parish in the country and currently ranks as the third largest within the Metropolis of Atlanta.

The parish began with a lay committee to unite Birmingham’s Greek community. A 1933 dispute over the Greek School led to a split and the creation of Holy Cross Church. In 1953, after years of reconciliation efforts, the two congregations merged to form Holy Trinity–Holy Cross with over 1,500 members.

The cathedral’s present building, begun in 1949 and consecrated in 1956, was designed by local architect George P. Turner. Uniquely, it follows a Latin cross floor plan, diverging from the traditional Greek cross layout seen in many Orthodox churches. In 1971, a 25,000-square-foot educational building replaced the original community center, designed by architect Art Garikes.

Recognized for its cultural outreach, the cathedral launched the Birmingham Greek Festival in 1972, an initiative sparked by the 1968 Birmingham Festival of Arts' “Salute to Greece.” This annual event has since become a major celebration of Hellenic food, music, and traditions, raising funds for charitable causes.

In 1977, the church was elevated to cathedral status. It later expanded with the Family Life Center, built in the former Fire Station No. 2, now housing offices, meeting rooms, a bookstore, and Saint Nicholas Chapel-dedicated to Rev. Father Emanuel Vasilakis. Other additions include a day care, Camp Vakakes near Harpersville, and a 70-space parking lot added in 2017. Led by Dean Gregory Edwards, the cathedral remains a key center for Birmingham’s Orthodox and Greek-American communities.