About The Hermitage

On June 19, 2023: With the blessing of His Eminence  Archbishop Alexander, the Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Church Diocese of the United States of America and Canada is pleased to announce the formation of our latest monastic hermitage, Athonite Saints Orthodox Hermitage, 9624 S. Lost Horizon Road, Hanover, IL  61041. The Hemitage is now open to visitors.

Our Location

Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Galena, IL (2.5 hours from Chicago), this beautiful site of 25 acres is nestled atop the forested hills of Hanover, IL, near the Mississippi river.

Services

 Monday - Matins 4:00 am

Wednesday - Vespers 4:00 pm

Friday - Compline with Akathist 6:30 pm

Services are celebrated primarily in English, Greek and Church Slovanic

Visitation Hours

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday  10:30am-3:00pm

Phases of Development

  As of January, 2025, the Chapel, cells, small refectory, and carpentry shop are under construction with interior wooden flooring, siding, and furniture having all been crafted from mature trees responsibly harvested from the property, with a 3-to-1 tree replacement program completed to ensure sustainability.  Additionally, this winter, the Chapel's interior furnishings, including the icon screen, will be custom-made by skilled local craftsmen, reflecting the care and tradition befitting such sacred spaces. 

 

  As spring 2025 approaches, we are preparing to complete the final exterior work on the Hermitage.  While the building is already watertight, heated, and equipped with running water, in the very near future we will be installing a durable metal roof and wooden siding.  The property will be further enhanced this spring through mulching, planting a vibrant green lawn, and adding evergreens.