NEW YORK, NY – [Photos by National Philoptochos]
In a moment steeped in spiritual reverence and historical significance, the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy graciously opened its doors on Thursday, May 8, to welcome His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos, Geron of Derkon, esteemed Hierarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, accompanied by His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, National Philoptochos Spiritual Advisor.
Gathered within the walls of our beloved headquarters, the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy was transformed into a sanctuary of grace and celebration as National Philoptochos hosted an elegant luncheon in honor of His Eminence and tribute to His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the world-wide spiritual leader of Orthodoxy.
The event reflected both the beauty of our faith and the strength of our ecclesiastical bonds, echoing the philanthropic spirit and commitment to service that lies at the heart of Philoptochos. The luncheon was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests and clergy, including Rev. Archdeacon Dionysios Papiris and Rev. Deacon Daniel Zafeiris.
This special occasion served as a profound reminder of the sacred and enduring relationship between the National Philoptochos Society and the Mother Church, a relationship founded on unwavering love, devotion, and shared purpose.
In his inspiring remarks, Metropolitan Apostolos Geron of Derkon shared:
“Permit me to emphaise the importance of the existence of an organisation such as Philoptochos in our times. In a world which is often characterised by self-centredness, characterised by a lapse of thought and characterised by detachment from spiritual values, the Philoptochos is a light—-a light of faith, a light of hope and a light of love. Through your works, solidarity is cultivated, the face of the church is revealed and strengthened and most importantly, the witness that orthodoxy isn’t simply an ideology but rather a way of life, is demonstrated.”
His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos’s presence was a blessing for all in attendance and a tangible expression of the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s deep and abiding love for the faithful in America. In hosting His Eminence, National Philoptochos was deeply honored to stand as a vessel of hospitality for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, reaffirming our wholehearted support for the sacred mission of the Mother Church and its global ministry of peace, compassion, and unity.
Among those in attendance were esteemed members of the National Philoptochos Executive Board and leadership who traveled across the country for this special event, including Debbie George, President (Metropolis of Detroit); Anita Kartalopoulos, First Vice President (Metropolis of New Jersey); Anna Vedouras, Treasurer (Metropolis of Pittsburgh); Diana Jianas, Assistant Treasurer (Metropolis of San Francisco); and Joyce Spanakis, President of the Metropolis of Pittsburgh Philoptochos.
The National Philoptochos staff who were also present included Amy Kalogeropoulos, National Philoptochos Director, Katherine Clark, Marketing and Communications Associate, Paulette Geanacopoulos, Director of Social Services, Vivian Dehner, Accountant and Bookkeeper, and Elizabeth Douglass, Administrative Assistant.
This luncheon was more than a gathering—it was a sacred expression of fellowship, shared purpose, and heartfelt reverence that embodied the very essence of Philoptochos: faith in action, service rooted in love, and unity in Christ. Held within the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy walls, it served as a powerful reminder that our headquarters is not merely a structure, but a living testament to our history, calling, and enduring commitment to the future. National Philoptochos’ unwavering devotion to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and His All-Holiness continues with profound love and loyalty, as we, the devoted Mothers and Daughters of the Church, embrace our sacred duty to serve humbly, strengthen the Body of Christ, and uplift every soul entrusted to our care.
The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society Inc. is the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. With over 90 years of experience, they have helped people in need through fundraising and charitable programs. They have more than 400 active chapters nationwide. Learn more at www.philoptochos.org.
[National Philoptochos]
