Alexander Molodin and Andrei Malyshev met with His Grace Bishop Spyridon of Chicago and Mid-America (the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR)) to present the work of Apsida Studio and to ask for his blessing for the studio’s continued service to Orthodox communities. Bishop Spyridon has served as Bishop of Chicago and Mid-America since his appointment by the Council of Bishops in May 2026.
During the meeting, Molodin and Malyshev presented several church projects currently being developed and implemented by Apsida Studio. They also spoke about the principles that guide the studio’s work, including respect for Orthodox liturgical tradition, careful study of the architectural heritage of the Church, and the adaptation of these traditions to contemporary construction methods and the practical needs of Orthodox parishes in North America.
The conversation also included a presentation of the recently established Apsida Foundation, a nonprofit organization created to assist Orthodox parishes with fundraising for church construction, restoration, and related infrastructure projects. His Grace expressed a lively interest in both initiatives and asked to receive additional materials so that he could study their work in greater detail.
At Bishop Spyridon’s request, the materials were sent to him electronically immediately following the meeting. A printed presentation portfolio of Apsida Studio was also delivered to His Grace through his secretary.
The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce both the architectural and charitable aspects of the work in greater depth and to discuss the needs currently facing Orthodox communities throughout the Diocese.