CHERRY HILL, NJ – [Photos, story by Steve Lambrou]
The echoes of freedom and resilience filled the air at the St. Thomas Hellenic School Greek Independence Day celebration, as students, teachers, families, and community members gathered to celebrate the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary and honor the heroes of 1821.
This March 25th event commemorated the courageous fight for Greece’s independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1821. Blue and white flags along with student artwork adorned the Danielle Kousoulis Cultural Center welcoming families and filling the room with culture, pride, and remembrance.
The program began with a moving recital of the Hymn to the Theotokos led by the Very Rev. Archimandrite Fr. Avgoustinos, followed by the Greek and American national anthems, led by the talented 6th grade students.
Principal Margarita Zografos Vrettos then welcomed the Hellenic school families and spoke of the proud and unshakable spirit of our forefathers who endured and preserved their faith, culture, and language for 400 years under Ottoman rule. She noted that their efforts were not in vain, as they are still recognized over 200 years later across the world by schools and families actively promoting, preserving, and celebrating our Hellenic language, values, religion, and heritage.
Fr. Avgoustinos addressed the importance of parents being the guiding light for their children so they are filled with faith, values, and virtues of our forefathers instead of the darkness that can be found in today’s society. He encouraged parents and grandparents to teach our youth the struggles and achievements of our national heroes so that those heroes serve as role models to help shape the youth into responsible, respectful, and productive citizens of the world.
The highlights of the afternoon were the songs, poems, and plays presented by students in PreK through 6th grade, that honored heroes and reflected the spirit of Greek independence and resilience, while a sense of national pride among the audience.
The pride, love, and respect with which the students presented was obvious and is directly related to the educators who work wholeheartedly and tirelessly to pass on the Hellenic language and values to their classes. Attendees applauded and watched with pride the students showcasing traditional dances from various areas of Greece organized by their dance teacher Mrs. Elina Gavras for the third segment of the program.
Anastasios Efstratiades, Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Parish Council President, congratulated the staff and students on a wonderful and inspiring program. He recognized the many efforts and contributions of parents who strive to ensure their children are active participants in our Greek Orthodox community as these events serve as a way to connect to and develop their Greek identity and heritage as well as create lifelong memories.
The event concluded with a spread of tasty Lenten treats graciously offered by the PTO to everyone in attendance. The celebration of Greek Independence Day was a success, leaving students and families with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the historical significance of March 25th.
