GARNETT STREET AND CENTRAL AVENUE

SECTION 1
Introduction

SECTION 2
In the Beginning
Whitehall Street

SECTION 3
Garnet Street & Central Avenue

SECTION 4
Pryor Street

SECTION 5
Clairmont Road

SECTION 6
Other Significant Events

SECTION 7
The Future

SECTION 8
History Committee

Greek Orthodox Church Of Atlanta, Garnett Street and Central Avenue from 1906 - 1928

The Whitehall Street chapel was only a temporary location. The congregation aspired to a sanctuary of Greek or Byzantine style with a school and community hall. As is often pointed out, "God moves in many ways to support His people." And God moves seems to have certainly brought the unexpected availability of a Presbyterian Church on the corner of Garnett Street and Central Avenue. The total price was $9.000 and the sale was consumated in July, 1906. The first services were held at this new location on May 8, 1906. This Presbyterian church was converted into not only the Greek Orthodox church, but also housed a school and facilities for community gatherings. Classes began in 1914 in the school. A separate board was created for the school. The one of the founding members of that board was Nicholas Charles Dodys .

From this larger worship facility came opportunities to form local societies of panhellenic nature. The first Atlanta parish organization was the Danaos Society, founded on May 3, 1908. Other societies followed with chapters throughout the nation. Atlanta was fast becoming an important geographical location among America's Greek communities.

This location served as the Greek Orthodox and community rallying center through World War I and into the 1920's. Like most other churches, the Atlanta Greek Orthodox congregation suffered unexpected dissention during this period. The friction was brought on by the politico-religious climate in Greece since many of the Atlanta members still had close ties with their motherland. However, voices of moderation, together with love for their new country, prevailed and the church emerged stronger than ever.