Protopresbyter Simion Pavel fell asleep in the Lord on April 24, 2025.
Ordained in 1956, Father Simion served rural Romanian parishes with tireless faith — often walking miles through snow and rain to ensure no liturgy was ever missed. From humble village chapels to urban sanctuaries, his vision and persistence gave rise to ever-growing congregations. Even under communist oppression, he fought to expand sacred spaces for the faithful. He spoke truth with courage — whether petitioning the state for more space to worship or advocating for transparency and fairness in church leadership.
After seeking asylum in America in 1982, he revitalized Holy Nativity Church in Chicago, IL transforming it into the largest Romanian Orthodox Church in North America. Together with his devoted wife, Preoteasa Maria, and the support of parishioners, he built not just a church, but a spiritual home where faith, church meals, and fellowship blossomed.
Father Simion leaves behind his beloved wife, three children, six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made toward the completion of the mosaic being commissioned for the new Church.
May Father Simion’s memory be eternal!