LOS ANGELES – The American Hellenic Council of California shared a tribute to the Very Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas who is retiring from his position as Dean of St. Sophia Cathedral and will be honored at a gala celebration on Saturday, January 14 at the Cathedral. Dr. James F. Dimitriou, President and Chairman of the American Hellenic Council of California released the following statement on January 11:

“On behalf of the American Hellenic Council, I would like to offer our gratitude and admiration to the legacy and leadership that Father John S. Bakas has provided as Dean of St. Sophia Cathedral and the Los Angeles Greek Community. His inspiration, vision and sense of purpose have provided our community with guidance and inspiration for the future of Orthodoxy and Hellenism. He will be remembered and admired for his commitment to our Orthodox traditions while providing the guidance to our spiritual needs. This Saturday, January 14th, 2023, we will celebrate the present while honoring his legacy to strengthen our vision of the future. Axios!”