The Sacred Activism of an Orthodox Bishop
The first step of any great journey can be the riskiest one of all. It is 1992, and the nation is reeling from the AIDS pandemic. When Fr. Demetri, a newly ordained Chicago-born priest, visits Bob—a man dying from complications due to AIDS, abandoned by his own parish priest out of fear—his life takes an unexpected turn. That single act of compassion sparks a deeper calling to social activism, setting him on a path he never anticipated. Yet nothing prepared the hard-nosed priest for a face-to-face encounter with a convicted murderer years later. Andrew, who is scheduled to be executed in less than three weeks, maintains his innocence regarding the grisly crime. But when the governor of the state—the inmate’s last hope—refuses to show mercy, the priest must again face the true cost of his calling.In this gripping true story of faith, justice, and redemption, one priest's mission to save a single life becomes a fight to transform an entire system.
Important Notice
If you plan to attend the May 18th Book Launch and want a personalized, autographed copy of Grace Unbound, please do not pre-order. Pre-ordered copies will not arrive in time to be signed at the event. Books will be available for purchase at the launch.
Meet Your Authors
BISHOP DEMETRIOS C. KANTZAVELOS has been an ordained clergyman for more than thirty years and a bishop for more than eighteen years. He retired from active ministry in early 2023 after a long career with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago. Between 1992 and 2017, he was a dynamic leader in social activism, earning numerous awards for his groundbreaking AIDS ministry and his successful advocacy to abolish the death penalty in Illinois. His extensive interfaith, ecumenical, and Greek Orthodox networks, growing media presence, and broad social connections in Chicago have made him a recognized figure. He has been featured over a dozen times in outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, the Chicago Tribune, the Philadelphia Inquirer, radio, and YouTube. Bishop Demetrios resides in Chicago, Illinois, and in a rural village in the Peloponnese region of Greece.PATRA McSHARRY SEVASTIADES, who began her professional career editing scientific papers by Soviet emigre scientists, is the author of several children's nonfiction books, including The Vietnam Veterans Memorial and The Hoover Dam. She edited Apocalypse: The Book of Revelation and The Gospel of Love: A Meta-Translation.
Reviews for
Grace Unbound:
The Sacred Activism of an Orthodox Bishop
"Bishop Demetrios' fervent call to rise up and confront the challenge of social unrighteousness is a call to affirm life."
Sister Helen Prejean, CSJ
◈ Author of
Dead Man Walking
George Stephanopolos
◈ Co-Anchor on
Good Morning America,
Host of ABC’s This Week
"A compelling account of faith in action."
“As a founding member of ACT UP, I’ve protested against the AIDS response from mainstream religions, including being arrested inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral. But, even then, I knew that these institutions weren’t monolithic. There were internal struggles to do the right thing. Bishop Demetrios’ stirring account of pushing the Greek Orthodox Diocese (now Metropolis) of Chicago towards a compassionate response during the early years of the crisis proves that AIDS activism came in many forms, full of empathy and inspiration.”
Peter Staley
◈ Author of
Never Silent: ACT UP and
My Life in Activism
Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon
◈ Former General Secretary
National Council of Churches
"Social ministry, [Bishop Demetrios] argues, is not breaking with the tradition of the church — it is reclaiming it. . . . I recommend Grace Unbound highly to anyone interested in the church and its ministries of justice, service, and peace."
“Grace Unbound" is a moving portrait of the power of empathy, faith, and hope enduring. Bishop Demetrios’ story illustrates how, by drawing from a deep sense of purpose, we can respond to injustice with compassion and unwavering resolve.”
George M. Logothetis
◈ Executive Chairman of
Libra Group, Chairman of
Libra Philanthropies
Upcoming Events
Stay connected and join me at these upcoming events! Whether it's a book signing, author talk, or live discussion, I'd love to see you there.
Sunday, May 18, 2025
Chicago
Book Launch
~ Hosted by the Balourdos Families ~
I’d love for you to join me for what promises to be an unforgettable afternoon as we celebrate the official release of my book in the heart of Chicago! This special event will include a live reading, a Q&A session where we’ll explore themes of faith, justice, and redemption, and plenty of time to connect with fellow readers. Enjoy meaningful conversation, refreshments, and the chance to purchase a personalized, autographed copy of the book. I can’t wait to see you there!
◈LOCATION: Labriola Ristorante, "The Parlor Room"◈ADDRESS: 535 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611◈DATE: Sunday, May 18, 2025◈TIME: 3-5PM
At 4:00 PM, I will offer a brief presentation and read selected excerpts from Grace Unbound. I look forward to sharing this special moment with you.
Sunday, June 08, 2025
New York
Book Signing & Panel Discussion
To conclude the Greek America Foundation's 2025 Gabby Awards weekend, Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos will host a special brunch and discussion about his newly acclaimed book, "Grace Unbound," at the Boro Hotel in Queens. In this gripping true story of faith, justice and redemption, one priest's mission to save a single life becomes a fight to transform an entire system. Attendees will discover insights into the book's themes, explore meaningful conversations and meet one of the preeminent spiritual leaders in our community.
◈LOCATION: Boro Hotel◈ADDRESS: 27th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101◈DATE: Sunday, June 08, 2025◈TIME: 11AM-2PM
Book Signings & Speaking Engagements
Please contact me via email for inquires about speaking engagements, book signings, author talks, or live discussions.
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