St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

Beautiful church that I had the opportunity to discover during the San Jose Greek festival last month. The moon offered awesome shadows to the white façade, and you got that feeling of being stranded in some Mediterranean island. Tons of people on the street and even inside the church, doing some tour at night (the festival lasts some days). I like the aesthetics of the place with those colorful vitrals and the wood work, the peace and the smell. I could feel the sense of community of first and second generations of Greek-​Sanjoseans enjoying their language, food and music together with other locals and foreigners. The priests seem to be very cool in here, all dancing outside and taking pictures with their ipads while enjoying some baklavas. Loved the atmosphere and feel like retaking my ancient Greek classes just because.

This is a wonderful place for families. When I attended mass on Oxi Day, I was impressed by the organization, knowledge and love shared, both in the Church and in the Sunday School Classroom.
We also attend Greek School at the church on a regular basis. Although little Greek is spoken at home, after only three months, my toddler knows his colors and how to ask for things in Greek! His yia yia and family in Greece is thrilled! The instructors (especially Ms. Demetra) are patient, kind and native Greek speakers. We look forward to joining the «ta micra» dance group once my son is 4 years old. Who could ask for more!
Although we are loyal to the Greek church near our home (and love the priest there and the community), we are greatful to St Nicholas for creating such a welcoming family environment that helps to teach the Greek culture to our children.

Who would give their church a bad review?!? I don’t like the odds on THAT gamble, know what I mean…

It’s probably not appropriate to rate a church on Unilocal (especially during lent), but someone needs to highlight all of the perks associated with the St. Nicholas parish.
Don’t be confused… this isn’t just a church, it’s a fully functioning community! Coming from a small Greek parish in SLO, I’ve always been slighting biased towards smaller churches («where everybody knows your name,» like in CHEERS), but being a huge parish has it’s bonuses:
Sunday school classes (for kids of all ages) — CHECK.
Bball/​Vball camps, games, leagues & tourneys (for all ages) — CHECK.
Glendi celebrations (often involving fab mezethes, greek food and ample wine) — CHECK.
Active Philoptohos society (basically stellar events for charity hosted by old greek ladies that organize/​cook every thing) — CHECK.
Greek Festivals and Parties– CHECK.
Actively competing Greek Folk Dance Teams (all ages) — CHECK.
Both of the priests, Father John and Father Soteris are charming, welcoming characters. I’ve also been impressed (and a little shocked) at how close-​knit the greek community is. I thank this parish for making me feel welcome– it is easy to get lost in the urban blight that is San Jose.