Not just another picture book of churches. This one-of-a-kind unique book covers everything one would like to know about the Greek Orthodox Church in the America. This book Ecclecia, Greek Orthodox Churches of the Chicago Metropolis is a monumental photographic and historical journey through the entire Greek Orthodox Metropolis (Archdiocese) of Chicago containing 59 individual parishes.
Though more than 400 of his richly colored photographs, Fiorentinos captivates the reader with the unique beauty and rich tradition of the Greek Orthodox Church as developed in these communities over the course of more than one hundred years.
Based on personal interviews with dozens of priests and parishioners, the establishments and growth of these churches are documented for the first time in one place. This book provides context through scholarly essays on the Greek immigrant community, fundamental beliefs and history, as well at the meaning of its icons and symbols.
Book reviews:
"Beautiful Resource, ECCLESIA is an excellent visual and historical record of the architecture and iconography of Greek Orthodox congregations in the region centered on Chicago but ranging from Missouri to Minnesota to Indiana...The large format book is extremely easy to navigate. I have found it helpful for teaching about the visual culture of religion. It would also make a handy resource for the tourist or anyone interested in the Orthodox church in particular or the material expression of religion in general. This beautiful and accessible book is a visual fesat, and it will remain a landmark study of the American manifestation of this rich religious tradition for generations to come." - Gretchen Buggein, Associate Professor of Humanities and American Studies at Christ College, Valparaiso University
"As regards to the text, the photographs, and general presentation of the book, you have achieved a remarkably high standard. Indeed, your work constitutes a model of the way in which a study of this kind should be produced. My warmest congraduations!" - Metropolitan Kallistos Ware
"I think your book is terrific!" - George Veras, President-CEO, Veras Communications, Inc.
"A masterpiece that should be in every Orthodox living room." - Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago.
" Your book tells an important story of the Greek Orthodox Church in the Midwest, one that could be lost if not documented and archived in photos...Your photo record and historical information will prove extremely valuable to those who wish to tell the story of Orthodoxy in Chicago." - Anton Vrame, Ph.D., Director of Religious Education Archdiocese, NY
" This book is an incredible resource and testimony of faith, as one born and raised in Chicago, I will always cherish it with profound respect and resounding sense of humility for the past and great hope for the future." - Rev. Fr. Elias Villis, Church of Our Savior, NY
" There is a richness to this book that reflects the richness of the Orthodox faith and its expression in the houses of worship. It is easy to read and a delight to the eye."- Father George Lane, Society of Jesus, President Loyola Press, Chicago
"I bought this book to give to a friend for Christmas, but when it arrived I enjoyed it so much that I kept it myself! - Van Argyrakis, Attorney, Omaha
"ECCLESIA triumphs beautifully in visually tracing the union between history, beliefs, icons, and their meanings to architectural symbolism. This spectacular history and art book is an important spiritual addition." - Dr. Jenna Constantine, Ph. D., Producer of the Award Winning Documentary Film, "The Spirit of the Chicago Greeks!", Chicago
