NEW YORK, NY – GNUSA
Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck was the setting for the third annual Nameday Gala honoring His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. The event drew more than 550 clergy and faithful, marking its largest turnout to date. Over $500,000 was raised in support of the Archdiocesan Youth Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, which enables young Orthodox Christians to participate in camping ministries across the United States and at Ionian Village in Greece.
As Archdiocesan Treasurer Elaine Allen reported, over the past two years, the Fund has received more than $860,000 in contributions—$560,000 allocated to direct scholarships and $300,000 invested in a permanent endowment to ensure future access for generations to come.
In his address, Archbishop Elpidophoros expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support and emphasized the spiritual significance of the camping experience. “You have always been there for me, as I strive to always be there for you,” he said. He described the camps as sacred spaces where youth are immersed in faith, friendship, and purpose—likening the experience to a baptismal journey that shapes their lifelong connection to the Church.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Gala Co-Chair Fr. Panteleimon Papadopoulos, followed by Allen, who shared a personal story about her daughter’s transformative camp experience.
Gala Co-Chair and Archdiocesan District Council Vice-Chair Stephanie Clark emphasized the importance of ensuring no child is left out due to financial hardship.
His Grace Bishop Nektarios of Diokleia praised Archbishop Elpidophoros’ leadership, calling him “a true spiritual shepherd defending his flock,” and presented a contribution from the Archdiocese to the Scholarship Fund.
The Gala also featured the inaugural presentation of the Archbishop’s Award of Excellence, honoring two individuals for their extraordinary service to the Church and community.
Archon Philip Christopher was recognized for his decades-long advocacy for Cyprus and the Omogeneia. As he noted, he accepted the award “on behalf of the people of Cyprus who are fighting for justice, on behalf my parents who died with the dream of returning to Keryneia, and on behalf of the 200,000 refugees still waiting to go home. The work goes on, the hope endures, and the dream of a free Cyprus will never die”.
Paulette Poulos, honored for six decades of service to the Church and Leadership 100, reflected on her journey with humility. “For those who know me well, I was never concerned with titles or recognition. For me, it has always been about service. My greatest privilege has been to serve the Archdiocese in many capacities over the years,” she said.
