Very Reverend Father Simion Pavel

A Life of Devotion – Rev. Simion Pavel

A Shepherd of Souls: Ordained in 1956, Fr. Simon served rural

Romanian parishes with tireless faith — often walking miles

through snow and rain to ensure no liturgy was ever missed.

A Builder of Churches and Communities: 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.

A Voice for the People: He spoke truth with courage — whether

petitioning the state for more space to worship or advocating for

transparency and fairness in church leadership.

A New Beginning in America: After seeking asylum in 1982, he

revitalized Holy Nativity Church in Chicago, transforming it into

the largest Romanian Orthodox Church in North America — a

beacon for thousands.

A Legacy Built with Love: 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.

A Family Man and Patriarch: Rev. Pavel leaves behind a living

legacy — his beloved wife, three children, six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren - who carry his light forward.

In lieu of flowers, Pr. Simion Pavel and his Family kindly request that donations be made toward the completion of the mosaic being commissioned for the new Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Very Reverend Father Simion Pavel, please visit our floral store.