Ichnography at St. Demetrios Church, Perth Amboy

*Photos by Paul W. Wang & Submitted by St. Demtrios Church

Press Release

PERTH AMBOY – St. Demetrios, Perth Amboy, New Jersey, has just completed a total transformation with the adornment of new iconography by Thessalonians iconographers’ brothers Panagiotis and Demetrios Chrystodoulou.

The new church-wide traditional Byzantine iconography is resplendent amidst the totally restored church back to its original form keeping the lights, terrazzo floors and vintage stained-glass windows in the Orthodox motif. Located across from the scenic waterfront along the Raritan River, the artist was moved by the exceptional light and natural beauty of the church’s location. Along with the community’s new priest Rev. Dr. George Parsenios, Assistant Professor of Theology, Princeton University, the community is experiencing a renaissance attracting back prior members and increasing with newer members who recognize a new revitalized spirit of optimism and growth.

“This is an exciting time for our church” said Parish Council President Judge Marina Corodemus. “We have been preparing for our 100th year Anniversary this October by preserving the beauty of our building on the waterfront while expanding our membership with people who have rediscovered the new St. Demetrios for the next 100 years.” Currently under planning is a new modern community center and the exploration of waterfront housing adjoining the church.

“Unlike other inner-city churches that fled to suburbia, we held fast to our waterfront location, confident that the demographics would shift and gentrification would work in our favor”, explained Corodemus. Perth Amboy is slated for several major waterfront projects including a $47 million-dollar redo of the train station complex to New York. “We kept Yiayia and Papou’s church open and revitalized it. So, we invite everyone to visit and come back to Perth Amboy…the best is yet to come”.

The church will hold numerous celebrations during the Feast Day week of St. Demetrios October 24-29. Event will include vespers and liturgy celebrated with His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos, Metropolis of New Jersey, host the convention of the EFGOCM, a 64-voice concert honoring the Great Martyr Demetrios, and an open-air luncheon overlooking the water after the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and the Federation choir singing music Anna Gallows. For tickets and a full schedule contact st.demetriosperthamboy.org or call our office 732-826-4466.