WESTFIELD, NJ – GNUSA
[Photos by Stellios Lambrou]
On Sunday, November 2, the ballroom of Adelphia Restaurant in Deptford, NJ, shimmered with joy, pride, and reverence as more than 400 faithful gathered for the 15th Annual Ambassador Awards Banquet of the Delaware Valley Region of the Metropolis of New Jersey.
This cherished tradition, now in its fifteenth year, brought together clergy, families, and parishioners from parishes across southern New Jersey, southeastern Pennsylvania, and Delaware to celebrate the unsung heroes of parish life—those who serve quietly, faithfully, and with unwavering devotion out of love for their Church and community.
The evening recognized individuals for their selfless service to the ministries of their local parishes, in the categories of Community Outreach, Philoptochos, Senior Citizens, Church Musicians, and Youth Advisors.
In his remarks, His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey congratulated all the recipients for their service done in humility and great faith in God, bringing to life Christ’s words “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). Praising their faith His Eminence closed his address recognizing “every service you offer — great or small — is precious before God. Together, you form one holy community, united in love and in purpose. The Church is strong because of you — because you have chosen to live your faith not only on Sundays, but every day of your lives”.
Additionally, more than 30 GOYAns were honored and recognized by His Eminence as Ambassadors of Faith, Hope, Love, and Peace, in appreciation for their amazing talents and contributions to the Orthodox Church. Each honoree received a commemorative plaque inscribed with their name and an icon of the new patron saint of the Metropolis, St. Iakovos of Evia.
