ASTORIA, NY – [Photos: Hellenic Community of Astoria]
On the Eve of the Feast of Saint Demetrios, on October 25, during Great Vespers, at the Cathedral of Saint Demetrios in Astoria, His Eminence Metropolitan Athenagoras of New Jersey announced the creation of a new Campus Ministry room for the students of Saint Demetrios Greek-American School.
This gift comes as he concludes his service as Archiepiscopal Vicar of Astoria, ahead of his Enthronement as Metropolitan of New Jersey on this coming Saturday, November 7.
“I want to leave a gift for the future of this community, and that future is our children,” Metropolitan Athenagoras said to a standing-room-only church.
His Eminence described it as “a room where our children can go to pray and contemplate, even to cry or shout if they need to”, a place where the School Counselor can meet with students in a space where they feel comfortable and safe, and where clergy can meet them in a familiar environment without leaving the school.
According to St. Demetrios School, the room grows out of the vision of Mrs. Kelly Manetas, the first female President of the Parish Council in its 99-year history, and is dedicated in her honor.
Metropolitan Athenagoras presented a personal check for $10,000 to fund the opening of the room, along with official signage for the Campus Ministry room.
To the students who will enter in fall 2027, he said: “This space, this room, will be for you! And I hope that when you enter this room you will enter seeking strength and that you will leave the room stronger in faith and proclaiming the love of Christ to everyone you meet”.
Metropolitan Athenagoras shared his profound gratitude when he said, “Thank you to our children, who are here and who offer us loving smiles and grateful hearts. And thank you to the parents who entrust their children to the Saint Demetrios School”.
The first students will be welcomed at the start of the fall 2027 school year, as the Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria approaches its 100th anniversary.
The Campus Ministry signage carries a call to students: “Enter to grow in faith. Depart to lead with love”.
