Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church has raised $2 million toward the total campaign goal of $3 million for its proposed new church campus at 7111 US 31 North in Acme Township.

The public fundraising phase, the church hopes, will provide the final funding needed to begin construction within the next 12 months, according to capital campaign chair Nikki Sobkowski. “We’re thrilled to be at this point thanks to the generosity of our donors, and we are confident we will meet our goal on schedule,” says Sobkowski.

Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church was founded in 1999 by ten Orthodox Christian families. Today the church on Hastings Street, has 65 families. It is the only Orthodox parish north of Grand Rapids.

The new church center will offer a 4,500 square foot sanctuary with seating for over 200 people, a 5,000 square foot community center to support outreach ministries and community gatherings, and an outdoor area including courtyard and greenhouse. The property is situated on five acres overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay. The building design features a modern interpretation of traditional architecture that will blend with the surrounding landscape.

“It is a fusion of traditional Orthodox architectural elements with contemporary, relevant style and sustainability,” says parish priest Father Ciprian Streza.