Rev. Fr. John Tsikalas

Fr. John Tsikalas began serving St. Andrew in 2021, following his previous assignment as Associate Pastor of Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church in Westchester, Illinois. He is grateful to serve a growing parish community devoted to worship, fellowship, service, and welcoming all who seek the fullness of the Orthodox Christian faith.

Father John was ordained to the diaconate and priesthood in June 2019. He is a graduate of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, where he completed his Master of Divinity with highest distinction and was honored as class valedictorian. During his time at Holy Cross, he also served as Ecclesiarch, an experience that deepened his love for the liturgical life and sacred rhythm of the Church.

Before seminary, Fr. John graduated from the University of Missouri with degrees in Political Science and Psychological Sciences. During those years, he spent summers serving at Project Mexico & St. Innocent Orphanage. That experience of combining faith with sacrificial service played an important role in clarifying his call to the priesthood.

With a desire to strengthen the Church through thoughtful leadership and continued formation, Fr. John recently completed the Executive Master of Nonprofit Administration at the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. His studies were undertaken as part of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago’s continuing commitment to clergy education and leadership development.

Father John and Presbytera Kahlee first met while students at the University of Missouri and are blessed with four children. Together they are thankful to call South Bend home and to share in the life of the St. Andrew parish family.

Fr. John seeks to serve with humility, integrity, and love for Christ and His Church, helping others encounter the beauty, goodness, and truth found in the Orthodox Christian faith.