The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation announced on Tuesday that it has received a transformational $2.9 million bequest from the estate of the late Andy Efthim. The gift represents the largest single donation ever made to the Metropolis or its affiliated institutions, signaling a new era of financial stability for the regional Church.
The gift comes from a man described by peers as a “quiet servant leader.” A longtime parishioner of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in St. Louis, Mr. Efthim spent much of his career working and living on offshore oil rigs. Despite his global travels, he maintained a modest, prayerful life centered on his faith.
“Andy Efthim’s generous heart and far-sighted understanding of the Church’s mission have created opportunities that will bless families and communities for generations,” said John Koudounis, President of the Metropolis of Chicago Foundation.
“We will honor his authentic faith by strengthening the Church he so quietly and profoundly loved.”
A legacy of global and local impact
The $2.9 million gift to the Metropolis Foundation is part of a broader philanthropic legacy. Mr. Efthim’s estate also designated significant bequests to:
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Foundation (St. Louis)
International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC)
Building a “forever” fund
The Metropolis of Chicago Foundation, an independent endowment established in 2022, will invest the funds to ensure the long-term health of the Church. Under the Foundation’s strict governance, the principal is preserved to reach a $5 million threshold before distributions begin.
Once active, the endowment will fund critical initiatives, including:
- Clergy Leadership Development: Training the next generation of spiritual leaders.
- Youth Ministries: Supporting programs like Fanari Camp.
- Parish Support: Providing grants for capital projects and local needs.
“Andy lived an authentically apostolic life—quietly shaping hearts and institutions with grace,” said His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael. “He believed Christians are called to transform lives locally and globally. This gift is the ultimate reflection of that conviction.”
This historic contribution builds on the momentum of a $1 million pledge from the Spell Family Foundation in 2024, positioning the Foundation as a primary pillar for the Church’s future across the Midwest.
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit endowment established in 2022. Its mission is to provide sustainable, long-term financial support to the Metropolis of Chicago and its ministries for generations to come.
