St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church in Flemington, New Jersey celebrated the burning of its church mortgage after its Hierarchical Feast Day Vespers on December 8. This milestone was the first goal on the parish’s “Path to Consecration.”
Leading the joyous event was Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, accompanied by Proistamenos Reverend Father James Pavlow, 2025 Parish Council President Dean Soteropoulos, and Consecration Program Co-chairs John Kaldes and Diana Grina. The Mortgage Burning Ceremony was conducted on the solea, with over a dozen Metropolis clergy and 150 parishioners attending the Hierarchical Vespers service.
“We are very blessed because of you and your faith, your dedication and contribution to your community of St. Anna. St. Anna will never forget what you have done for this beautiful church in this corner of the Metropolis of New Jersey,” Metropolitan Apostolos said. “I am very excited that in my time as your Metropolitan to be able to act like this, to confirm the last payment. Glory to the Holy Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen!”
The final payoff amount of $300,000 was achieved quickly with the launch of the Consecration Fund in October.
The consecration leadership team highlighted the final milestone they are working towards: consecration of the church in 2026. To support this goal, fundraising will continue to purchase the needed ecclesiastical consecration items and fund some building updates.
