NEW YORK – GNUSA – Photos: GANP/ Dimitris Panagos
Saint Basil Academy in Garrison, NY, welcomed more than 200 guests on Saturday, December 13, for its annual Christmas pageant, a cherished tradition that brings together children, families, board members, and supporters from across the region.
Representatives from the national boards of both the National Philoptochos and the Daughters of Penelope attended the joyous event, along with numerous Philoptochos chapters, AHEPA Districts, clergy, parishes, philanthropic organizations, Pan‑Gregorian, and many others. Among the distinguished guests were His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, NY State Senator Rob Rolison, NJ Metropolis Philoptochos President Eleni Constantinides, and Pan‑Gregorian Enterprises First Vice President Christos Karamanos.
This year’s program featured a moving presentation of the Nativity, followed by Christmas carols sung by the Saint Basil choir. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the walls of the Pan Arcadian Gymnasium were adorned with a striking art exhibit on the theme of Hope, showcasing portraits of the children alongside their reflections on their dreams for themselves and for the world.
The celebration was further enriched by traditional Cypriot dances performed by the United Cyprians of America under the direction of Joanne Kyriacou.
“Every year I look forward to coming to the Academy for your annual Christmas pageant. The joy and enthusiasm that you bring to the dramatic and musical re-tellings of the Christmas story warm my heart, and I’m sure all the hearts of those present to witness your talents”, remarked Archbishop Elpidophoros.
“Christmas is a time when we strive to take the focus away from ourselves, and place it on the Child Who was born in Bethlehem of Judaea. The innocence and vulnerability of the Infant Jesus remind us that all of us come into the world in need of love, in need of protection, in need of nourishment, and in need of family”, he added, noting that “Saint Basil Academy is a very special family that embraces and enfolds each member of this precious community with all these essential qualities .. and more. For here, the Holy Faith in Jesus Christ is practiced with sincerity of heart and soulful purpose”.
After a fasting luncheon, Archbishop Elpidophoros joined by Executive Director Fr. Constantine Sitaras, and President Dr. Steven Gounardes distributed gifts generously donated by Philoptochos chapters, AHEPA, parishes, associations, Pan Gregorian and members of the omogenia, helping brighten the children’s Christmas and supporting the Academy’s mission.
