ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1995, Roanoke Times
DATE: Saturday, December 23, 1995 TAG: 9512250045
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B-3 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: RICHMOND
SOURCE: FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS
Father Nicholas G. Bacalis, pastor of Roanoke's Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church since 1976, is expected to become pastor of Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Richmond next spring.
He is to succeed Father Constantine N. Dombalis, who is retiring as dean of the cathedral, where he has spent his entire 41-year career.
Bacalis, who was reached at his home Friday night by The Roanoke Times, said he interviewed for the job only after the bishop asked him to.
Gus Constantino, president of Sts. Constantine and Helen's Parish Council, said an invitation was extended to Bacalis on Monday.
"He said he wanted to go back home and talk with his wife. He called me and gave me an affirmative answer," Constantino said.
Bacalis said his answer reflects his commitment to do whatever the bishop requests of him. He said a final decision on the appointment is still several weeks away because the archbishop in New York must approve the transfer.
Constantino said he expects it to be approved.
A Norfolk native, Bacalis graduated from Granby High School in Norfolk in 1960, the University of Virginia in 1964, St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary in Crestwood, N.Y., in 1968, and The Ecumenical Institute in Bossey, Switzerland, in 1969.
In 1981, Bacalis received a Brotherhood Citation Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews.
LENGTH: Short : 36 lines ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO: (headshot) Bacalisby CNB