ATLANTA, GA – [ Story & Photos by National Philoptochos]
The National Philoptochos Society, the philanthropic ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, on September 27, 2025, for its historic 20th Biennial Children’s Medical Fund (CMF) Luncheon. More than a philanthropic gathering, the luncheon bore witness to the love of Christ, affirming the sacred mission of Philoptochos to serve ‘the least of these’ with faith and compassion.
The luncheon, hosted this year by the Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos, welcomed hundreds of faithful supporters and friends who came together in a spirit of unity and love. The event was honored by the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta, and His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, National Philoptochos Spiritual Advisor. Their blessings and words of encouragement reminded all present that philanthropy, in its truest sense, is the living expression of our Orthodox Christian faith. The luncheon was chaired by Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos President, Irene Politis, alongside her tri-chairs, Valine Georgeson, Vickie Scaljon, and Evan Mekras Scurtis. The ladies led with a true example of what it means to serve and lead with the love of Christ at the forefront.
In her remarks, National Philoptochos President Debbie George drew upon the words of our Lord, setting the spiritual tone for the day: “Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” — Matthew 18:5
“These words are central to our mission”, Debbie George said. “Every child we touch through the Children’s Medical Fund is not just a child in need but a living reflection of Christ Himself. Each act of care, gift of healing, and effort to bring comfort is an encounter with Him. This sacred responsibility and privilege guide us as Philoptochos women, reminding us that serving a child is serving Christ”.
Guided by this vision, the luncheon distributed more than $375,000 in grants to hospitals and organizations devoted to the healing and well-being of children. In addition, over $1 million was raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, and other fundraising opportunities to support ongoing medical care. This achievement brings the total funds raised since the inception of the Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon to over $5 million. Through these efforts, Philoptochos continues to serve as an instrument of Christ’s love and mercy for generations to come.
Grant recipients offered testimonies of the life-changing work being carried out in children’s hospitals and programs across the country and further underscored the sacred nature of Philoptochos’ mission. Their words gave voice to the countless children whose lives have been touched by this ministry of compassion.
Three distinguished voices added grace and depth to the program. Emily Pantelides, a respected journalist and communications professional, served as emcee and guided the proceedings with warmth and elegance. Acclaimed author and Emmy Award–winning journalist Yvette Manessis Corporon shared reflections that interwove faith, resilience, and heritage. Guest speaker Christine Pumphrey offered a heartfelt personal testimony that resonated deeply with the audience, powerfully illustrating the transformative reach of Philoptochos’ mission.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America remarked:
“This event is truly one of the premier philanthropic achievements of the Greek Orthodox Omogeneia, because it embraces with caring and compassion the neediest among us – the children who are afflicted with all manner of illnesses … You are the mothers of the Church – the grandmothers, the aunts, and sisters and godmothers. You have a special connection to the Theotokos, the Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whose womb He designed to become a Human Being. A single Human Being. Just One, but One Who is the Savior and Redeemer of the entire Universe. In the same way, when a child is healed, that child may go on in life to achieve breakthroughs and innovations that can save innumerable lives. We never know, but God does. And that is why your work here at the Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon is so vital, so necessary. You are not only making possible treatments for the present circumstances. You are making possible the futures of innumerable children. Children who need your help, your compassion, and your love”.
The 20th Biennial Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon is a testament to the ministry of Philoptochos within the Archdiocese, expressing the Gospel through works of love and manifesting Christ’s command to care for those in need.
The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, Inc., the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, has served since 1931 as a living expression of Christ’s command to love one another. With more than 400 active chapters nationwide, Philoptochos continues to carry out its sacred mission, extending Christ’s love and compassion to those in need. Learn more at www.philoptochos.org.
