The quarterly publication highlighting news and events from the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society

Metropolis of Chicago

April 2012 Inaugural Edition

Table of Contents: Words from His Eminence Page 1 President’s Corner Page 2 Stay Connected Page 2 National Events Page 3 Hat’s off to Joanne Page 4 City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration Page 5-6 Metropolis Lenten Retreat Page 7 Metropolis Annual Quiltothon Page 8: Chapter Events Pages 9-20 Philoptochos Potpourri Pages 21-22 Calendar of events Page 23 National Commitment Corner Page 23 Mission Statement Page 23 Address page Page 24

“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to

you, as you did it to one of the least of these my

brothers, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40

Greek Orthodox Ladies’ Philoptochos Society

Metropolis of Chicago

Here it is! We’ve talked about it, went to the drawing board, back to the drawing board, and now after meetings and plan-ning, our electronic Metropolis Newsletter has finally arrived. Our new updated newsletter is in compliance with the National Philoptochos commitment to “Go Green.” Besides moving forward to going “green”, this new electronic newsletter will improve our communication with all chapters. Philoptochos members throughout the nation and the entire Archdiocese will now have the ability to see what is happening in the Chicago Metropolis. This is a huge leap forward and a big step for our Metropolis. Thank you to Christine Voutiritsas and Effie Galetsis for agree-ing to be the editors in chief and for having the courage, the wisdom, and especially the talent to take our Metropolis to this new level. These ladies have already put forth hours of time and effort to bring you this first edition. Thank you to our for-mer Metropolis President Joanne Stavrakas who had the vision to move forward into a new era. We would be remiss if we didn’t recognize the pioneers of our earlier Focus publication. These ladies saw the need and had the foresight to create a newsletter, from 1994 to 2011; that would reach each Philoptochos member and keep them in touch with their neighboring chapters. Thank you to Helen Theodosakis, Georgia Barris, Anastasia Weaver, Rose Da-lianis, and the late Nikki Melacrinakis for their unselfish com-mitment and dedicated service. The newsletter will continue to be a work in progress and your suggestions are imperative and welcomed. It is the goal of the newsletter committee to have four publications during the year: a Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter publication. On behalf of the Philoptochos Board we wish you happy reading with the hopes that you will share in our excitement in presenting this new look!

Irene Arsoniadis

Metropolis Philoptochos President

Editors In Chief

Help us stay connected. We want to hear from your chapter. Email us pictures and

a description from your events to philoptochos.editor@gmail.com.

To post information on the Calendar of Events, email christinahiotis@gmail.com Efthimia Galetsis Christine Voutiritsas

In an effort to Stay Connected, The Metropolis Philoptochos Board has established a liason program. Every Chapter will have their own liason that will be able to answer questions and pro-vided support as needed. The liasons are listed below: Netsa Antonakos: Three Hierarchs, Champaign; Annunciation, Decatur Pam Argyris: St. Sophia, Elgin; SS. Constantine and Helen, Rockford; Assumption, Chicago Irene Arsoniadis: All Saints, Peoria and Joliet; St. Mary, Minneapolis; St. George, St. Paul, MN Lena Angelos: St. Demetrios, Elmhurst; Assumption, Hegewisch Georgia Barris: St. Andrew, South Bend, IN Pat Galanis: Assumption, Madison; Annunciation, Milwaukee; SS. Constantine and Helen, Wauwatosa Effie Galetsis: St. Nectarios; St. Athanasios, Aurora, St. Demetrios, Hammond Georgia Gavaris: Annunciation Cathedral; St. George, Chicago, St. George, Des Moine, IA Penny Geavaras: St. John the Baptist; St. Haralambos, Niles; St. Basil, Chicago Pat Gerbanas: St. Demetrios, Chicago; Holy Trinity, Sioux City, IA Cathy Gofis: SS. Constantine and Helen, Palos; Holy Anargyroi, Rochester, MN Christina Hiotis: Holy Trinity; St. George, Schereville, IN; SS Constantine and Helen, Merrilville, IN Marilyn Jemas: St. Nicholas, St. Louis; Assumption, Town and Country, MO; St. Luke, Columbia, MO Olga Paxinos: St. Spyridon; St. George, Rock Island; SS Constantine and Helen, Swansea Georgia Sarlas: St. Nicholas, Oak Lawn; Assumption, Orland Park, Annunciation, Kankakee Kathy Siavalas: St. Spryridon, Sheboygan, WI; Transfiguration of Our Lord, Mason City, IA; St. John the Baptist, Cedar Rapids, IA; Holy Trinity, Fond du Lac, WI Joanne Stavrakas: Sts. Peter and Paul, Gleview, Annunciation, Milwaukee Carol Stamas: Ascension of Our Lord; St. Demetrios, Libertyville; Holy Apostles, Westchester Helen Theodosakis: St. Iakovos, Valparaiso; St. Anthony, Springfield Patty Tsaoussis: Holy Cross, Justice; Assumption, East Moline Marilyn Tzakis: St. Andrew, St. George, DeKalb; Kimisis tis Theotokou, Racine

Marilyn Tzakis, Pam Argyris, Irene Arsoniadis, Joanne Stavrakas, Fr. Christos Mars, Koula Pitsas,

Faye Peponis, Kathy Siavelis

Diane Tseckares and Kathy Gabrielle, National 3rd VP, Two of the chairladies of the

National Philoptochos Convention

Arlene Siavelis, National 1st Vice-President, newly appointed National Philoptochos

Advisor Bishop Sevastianos of Zela, Aphrodite Skeadas, National Philoptochos President

Kathy Siavelis, Koula Pitsas, Peggy Vranas

Pam Argyris, Penny Korkos, Joanne Stavrakas

The National Board of Philoptochos welcomes Bishop Sevas-tianos of Zela, who has been appointed as the new spiritual advisor, taking the place of Bishop Andonios of Phasiane. Bishop Sevastianos was introduced at the National Board meet-ing in Atlanta on March 16, 2012, and we look forward to his spiritual guidance at all future meetings.

The biennial Philoptochos Convention will be held in Phoenix, AZ. from July 1-4. For a chapter to be eligible to participate with delegates to this very informative Philoptochos Conven-tion, the chapter must be ratified and all National and Metropo-lis commitments must be fulfilled. Please make every effort to be current with your chapter ministries. In the National bylaws, under Article V, section 12, p. 16-17 you will find all the guidelines for choosing delegates and covering their expenses.

Pictured from left to right: Symeon, Lindsay, little

Dino, George, Dean. Seated: His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago, Past Metropo-

lis President Joanne Stavrakas, His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos.

“Hats Off to Joanne,” was the theme for the testimonial dinner that was held in honor of past Metropolis Philoptochos Presi-dent Joanne Stavrakas. The event was hosted by the Chicago Metropolis Philoptochos board, held at Rosewood Banquets, on Tuesday, February 21st, with over 250 guests in attendance. His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, His Grace Bishop Demetrios, many Chicago area priests, chapter presidents, members and family and friends of Joanne’s were in attendance. Present Me-tropolis President Irene Arsoniadis welcomed everyone and introduced Joanne’s son Symeon, who honored us by serving as the Master of Ceremony for the evening. Honorary Metropolis board member and Past Metropolis President Lori Voutiritsas gave a beautiful and touching speech about Joanne and re-flected on Joanne’s early career in Philoptochos which began as chairman of a Vasilopita event many years ago and which in-cluded her many accomplishments since then.

Metropolis Philoptochos board members performed a skit, “Hat’s Off to Joanne,” recounting all the many hats she wears: IOCC Committee Member, Metropolis Oratorical Committee, St. Photios Shrine Board Member, Philoptochos President, Math Teacher, ST. Basil Academy Board Member, and of course her favorite hat of all, her Family hat. Needless to say, the members of the Metropolis board had fun performing, and the audience was kept amused during the skit. Joanne was hon-ored with a small token of appreciation from all the Philopto-chos members of the Metropolis. In addition, Polly Hillier, the director of St. Photios Shrine, was in attendance and also pre-sented Joanne with a cross from the St. Photios Shrine Founda-tion. A letter from National Philoptochos President Aphrodite Skeadas was read recognizing Joanne for all her many contribu-tions, her dedication and commitment to Philoptochos. The evening concluded with His Eminence praising Joanne for her many contributions to Philoptochos and the many other minis-tries she serves. Axios, Joanne, for your dedication and love for Philoptochos! By Irene Arsoniadis

Metropolis President Irene Arsoniadis, His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago, Past President Joanne

Stavrakas, His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos at the Rosewood Banquets.

All were listening very attentively to Symeon.

Metropolis Philoptochos President

2007-2011

CITYWIDE VASILOPITA CELEBRATON

The 52nd Anniversary Celebration , the “cutting of the Vasilopita” took place on Sunday, January 8, 2012 at the par-ish of St George, Schererville, Indiana. His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago and His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos officiated the event with the assis-tance of Reverend Father Constantine Aliferakis, parish priest of St. George Schererville.

This year, the Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos which annu-ally hosts the Citywide Vasilopita went to the “southside”; south of Chicago, to northwest Indiana. It was the first time an Indiana parish hosted the event. Over 400 guests enjoyed a celebration of prayer, the traditional cutting of the Vasilopita and a musical performance by the Greek School of St. George, who wore traditional costumes.

Remarks were given by host Philoptochos President, Demetra Bakris, who welcomed everyone to Indiana, Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos President, Irene Arsoniadis, the Honorable Ioanna Efthymiadou, Consul General of Greece, Chicago, and the emcee of the evening, Father Aliferakis. All speakers focused on the importance of the children of St. Basil’s Academy, which the evening’s proceeds benefited. His Eminence, as the spiritual leader of the Metropolis, spoke thereafter, emphasizing the works of St. Basil and for us not to forget those children in need. He also encouraged our youth to visit St.Basil’s Academy and see first hand the good works being done by Father Costa Sotiras and his staff.

The event concluded with the annual cutting of the Vasilopita for the various Metropolis organizations, with commentary by our emcee, whose prior acting skills came into play. By Marilyn Tzakis

In the fourth century, Saint Basil the Great established various philanthropic institutions, and distributed money to the poor in a discreet manner by plac-ing gold coins in sweetened bread. The recipients cutting the bread were sur-prised to find the gold coin, which provided them with material suste-nance. These special loaves of bread became known as the bread of Saint Basil or Vasilopita.

His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS, His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago, the Honorable Ioanna Efthymiadou,

Consul General of Greece, St. George Philoptochos President, Demetra Bakris, Metropolis President Irene Arsoniadis

The Greek School of St. George, Schererville, IN singing at the City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration.

His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago, cutting the vasilopita assisted by Chris Avromopoulos

Christina Hiotis, Effie Galetsis, Pat Gerbanas,Koula Pitsas, Gerogia Sarlas, Carol Stamas, Penny Geavaras,

Netsa Antonakos, Georgia Barris, Marilyn Tzakis, Joanne Stavrakas, Demetra Bakris,Lena Angelos,Cathy Gofis,

Irene Arsoniadis, Peggy Vranas, Pam Argyris

His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos receives his piece of Vasilopita

Fr. Constantine Aliferakis welcomes guests during

City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration

Children from St. George, Schererville, IN preparing

for City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration

St. George, Schererville, IN. Philoptochos President Demetra Bakris addresses the guests

During the City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration.

Vasilopites

His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago gives a piece of vasilopita to a young guest.

English presentation by Fr. Nicholas Geourgiou Of Holy Apostles, Westchester, Il at

The Metropolis Lenten Retreat

Chair Ladies of Metropolis Lenten Retreat Pat Gerbanas, Christina Hiotis, Kathy Siavelis

Greek Presentation by Fr. Theologos Pandelis Of SS. Constantine & Helen, Wauwatosa, WI at

The Metropolis Lenten Retreat

Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos

Annual Lenten Retreat

The Good Shepherd Seeks his “Lost Sheep”

“I am the Good Shepherd, I know My own and My own know me.” John 10:14

“I am the Good Shepherd, The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” John 10:11

With the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, the Metropolis of Chicago Ladies Philoptochos Society hosted its 30th Annual Lenten Retreat on Saturday, March 10, 2012, to-gether with the Parish of St. Sophia in Elgin, Illinois. This year’s retreat focused on the theme: The Good Shepherd Seeks the Lost Sheep – “I am the Good Shepherd, I know My Own and My Own know Me” (John 10:14). The day was filled with prayer, spiritually enlightening presentations and fellowship, and was attended by our Hierarchs, Clergy, and 150 Philoptochos Members from throughout the Metropolis and their families.

This year’s Lenten Retreat was planned and organized by His Grace, Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos, who acted as our Retreat Master, along with three Chairladies from the Metropo-lis of Chicago Philoptochos Board, Patricia Gerbanas, Chris-tina Hiotis, and Katherine Siavelis, and our Metropolis Philop-tochos President, Irene Arsoniadis. The speakers for this Lenten Retreat were Rev. Fr. Theologos Pandelis of SS. Con-stantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, who offered the Greek Presentation, and Rev. Fr. Nicholas Georgiou of Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, Westchester, Illinois, who offered the English Presentation on this very important theme. All present were enriched by these lectures, explanations, and discussions which included Scrip-ture readings, Psalms, particularly Psalm 23, and everyday life examples. Our Retreat was made complete with the help of Rev. Fr. Andrew Karamitos of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church who organized and served the Orthros and Sixth Hour Services, together with our Hierarchs, Clergy, and Chanters along with the faithful who were in attendance.

Prior to and following this most inspiring retreat, the St. Sophia Ladies Philoptochos with its President Kathy Katrakis offered everyone a beautifully presented and delicious Lenten Conti-nental Breakfast and Luncheon. All those in attendance also received written material and a diptych icon of “The Good Shepherd – Jesus Christ” to strengthen us in our Lenten jour-ney, and in remembrance of all that was learned on that day. We thank our Dear Lord for blessing us with beautiful weather, and thank everyone who organized, planned, and offered their talents in making this year’s Lenten Retreat memorable and spiritually fulfilling. Given the strength that we received, the Philoptochos Sisters were able to continue on their Lenten journey enriched and are looking forward to a Blessed Pascha! By Kathy Siavelis

Standing: Karen Venson, Fr. Michael Stearns, Georgia Barris, His Grace Bishop DEMETRIOS of Mokissos,

President Maryann Rasmussen, Joan Kamberos, Tina Malnati

Sitting: Mary Koulogeorge, Mary Jimenez having fun making quilts

At 9 AM we were set up, and waiting to start our 13th Annual Quilt-a-thon at SS. Peter and Paul Church. Our volunteers and volunteers from neighboring churches started arriving at 9:30 A.M. Everyone quickly signed in; gathered their materials and began to quilt. Our chairpersons for this year were Tina Mal-nati, Joan Kamberos and Niki Venson.

The luncheon committee was chaired by Milly Pappas, Fran Mechales with Presbytera Artemas assisting them. They planned the lunch and with the committee's help prepared a delicious Lenten meal. At noon, His Grace Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos and our Assistant Priest, Fr. Michael Stearns, blessed the food and joined the volunteers for lunch.

Even though the weather outside was a warm and sunny, 80 degrees, a total of 80 volunteers donated their time to make quilts for needy and sick children. We finished around at 3 p.m. with a total of 131 quilts. Our many thanks to all of the volunteers that made this event possible. May God bless you for your efforts. By Maryann Rasmussen

Young helpers with their blanket

Saints Peter and Paul Saints Constantine and Helen

The eleventh annual Quilt-A-Thon, hosted and sponsored by the St. Helen Women’s Philoptochos, was held on March 17, 2012. This is a Metropolis project which was renamed the “Maria Pazoles Memorial Quilt-a-thon” in 2011 by His Grace Bishop Demetrios, Chancellor of the Metropolis, in memory of the person who started this project on the Southside and in-spired all of us to continue. Over 135 people attended completing 320 quilts, 110 fleece blankets and 124 pillows all of which will be distributed to various medical facilities including: Children’s Memorial, Hope Children’s Hospital, La Rabida, Shriners Children’s Hos-pital, Southwest Crisis Center, Alexian Brothers Hospital, Lu-theran General Hospital and Almost Home Kids (a respite and educational facility for medically fragile children). Metropolis of San Francisco “Kids ‘n Cancer Family Agape Camps Since we began 11 years ago we have distributed more than 5,000 quilts and fleece blankets to the above noted medical facilities plus Massachusetts General Children’s, Mayo Chil-dren’s, Comer Children’s, Metropolis of San Francisco Kids ‘n Cancer Family Agape Camps. Cook County Hospital, Little Company of Mary Neo-Natal Unit, Medical Missions in Mex-ico and the Philippines, AIDS children in the Ukraine, a mon-astery in Greece caring for orphaned children and to a Native American reservation. By Gloria Demes

Volunteers making quilts

SS. Constantine and Helen, Palos Hills, IL raised over $4000 in walk-a-thon for the American Cancer

Society in the fight for Breast Cancer.

Diane Kostal, Maria Tagler, Antigioni Campbasso, Irene Campbasso, Alex Tagler.

More participants of the walk-a-thon

Cancer walk event

St. Demetrios Philoptochos Members with Fr. David Bissias on November 6, 2011, Philoptochos Sunday

Standing: Angela Loxas Sitting: Toula Delis

Christmas Basket Fundraiser

St. Demetrios, Hammond, IN. hosted multiple events

Mia Delis, Toula Delis, Angela Loxas, Kathy Fotopoulos (Secretary), Georgia Karnezis (President)

From the annual Style Show in October

In September, St. Demetrios Participated in the local Cancer Research Walk. Linda Katsinis, Team Captain, Helen Condes, Catherine Vlahos

St. Nicholas, Oak Lawn, IL held their annual Greek Cooking class and luncheon on February 11, 2012.

Attendees of Cooking Class event

Georgia Angelopoulos, Sultana Bamidis, Tasia Manasses, Tara Vranas, Kulla Vranas, Vicky Gainnakopoulos,

M. Bamidis, Tasia Platipodis, Elaine Kamberos Greek Cooking staff of St. Nicholas

Doreen Galanes, Georgia Gardeakos, and Millie Molesky give a hands-on opportunity to a participant to wrap their own boureki…..Delicious!!!

Annunciation, Milwaukee, WI chose to minister to the military veterans of Clement Zablocki VA Hospital. Annuncia-tion has an ongoing ministry with the Palliative/ hospice ward.

Heather Franceschi, Georgia Wieseler, Sue Stappas with donations

Georgia Wieseler, Sue Stappas, Heather Franceschi with Joe a Military veteran and POW of WWII

“….remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts: 20:35

St. Nicholas, St. Louis, MO hosted their Grecian Kitchen Holiday Open House on November 5, 2011

Fr. Doug Papulis, Maria Zouglas

The Ladies from St. Nicholas, St. Louis Mo. Prayer Shawl Committee

“Hellenic Cuisine” Cookbook, OPA Salad Dressing, Greek Imported Items, Gift Baskets and Hand-knitted items also

available for unique and treasured holiday gifts.

Georgia Ferretti, Christina Anastas, Carol Kamburis

Andrea Mezines, Bess Millonas

Ann Zotos, Kay Zotos

On Saturday, November 5th, the public was invited to the St. Nicholas Family Life Center on South Outer Forty Road, to

savor their favorite Greek delicacies…and take home more to bake for the holidays. All proceeds from the Grecian Kitchen benefitted outreach projects of the St. Nicholas Philoptochos

Society

Martha Krascozka, Evangelia Eleftheri, Becky Korellis, Christine Monanteras, Amalia Kendall, Mary Affeld,

Angie Zaharias, Marika Christodoulakis

St. Iakovos, Valparaiso, IN attended Relay For Life for Cancer Research. The event was an all night relay which took

place at Valparaiso University

Annunciation Cathedral Philoptochos Chicago made homemade Koulouria over Christmas for the troops

in Afganistan

Aphrodite Peponis, Pope Kyriakopoulos, Anastasia Therman, Cathy Hareas, Joanne Stavrakas, Fran Douros,

Georgia Gavaris, Kathy Salapatas

St George Dekalb, IL held their Vasilopita Celebration on Januray 15, 2012

Kathy Wright (President), Carrie Parker, Effie Kitsios (Vice-President), and Thelma Petros (Board Member)

Theodore Kitsios, Effie's husband and our chanter, who auctioned off our breads to benefit St. Basil's Academy

Holy Apostles, Westchester, IL held their annual fash-ion show “The Bountiful Vineyard” on October 22, 2011. The proceeds of the luncheon went to The Hogar Rafael Ayau Or-phanage, which provides a home for abandoned and under privileged children and By the Hand Club for Kids, an after school program for Chicago Public School children who are struggle academically and/or are facing other hardships.

Chair ladies of “The Bountiful Vineyard” Fashion Show

Raffle Prizes from the event

SS. Constantine & Helen, Milwaukee, WI baked koulouria for the Folk Fair and held an Artoclasia

for Philoptochos Sunday

St. Athanasios, Aurora, Il. held their Christmas Walk in conjunction with their Fall Food Fest

Pictured Left: Sheila Pulos Pictured Right: Megan Pullos, President Stephanie Altidis, Stella Simios

St. Anthony Springfield, IL held their Ethnic Festival on September 1, 2011 during Labor Day weekend at the State Fairgrounds. There is an Ethnic Village, and entertainment.

They sell gyros, souvlakia, salad, saganaki, soft drinks, and lots of pastries. The event starts Friday after 5 pm and ends Sunday

night.

in the background from left to right: Maria Kapadaidaki, Irene Marzano, Zoe Braddock,

and in the foreground Annette McDermott.

Theoni Cooklis and Zoe Braddock.

Assumption, Town and Country, MO. held their “Martini and Margarita Night”

Back row: Joanne Glikos, Flora Dimitriou, Diane Sieckmann Front row: Xeny Simpson, Debbie Cosmopoulos,

Sonia Zamanou-Erickson

Irene Tsoubanos, Helen Farmakis, Georgia Eckert, Popi Deros, Mary Kantis, Maria Tsaoussis, Eleftheria Afentoullis

It was a "sisterhood" social......just a fun night!

The Assumption Philopto-chos of Town & Country, MO, hosted a "Martini & Margarita Social" to help

strengthen the bond between their members. We have a wonderful blend of

generations working for our beloved Panagia and for the

various Philoptochos charities..

Dena Anastos (chairman), Vonnie Karafotias (President, St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos), Rita Terterian of North-

western Memorial Health Foundation and Jacqueline Golan of Northwestern Department of Psychiatry

St. Andrews, Chicago, IL held their October Fall Fundraiser “ Fall Fling” to let women know about the Women’s Behavioral Health Program of the

Northwestern University Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences. They were able to present a $5000 check to this worthy cause the day of the

event.

Performer: Jenny Riddle

St. Luke the Evangelist ,Columbia, MO. held their GO RED MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Jean Monos, Member of Membership committee Julie Kalaitzandonakes, Chair of the Membership drive, and

Ina Cernusca, Philoptochos President

Susan Gater, Committee Member, Georgia Pardalos, Vice President

The event was organized to support the national Philoptochos Wear Red Campaign and the Heart Health Awareness Month! The "red" and "heart" symbols were also used as the core mes-sage for our annual recruitment event. The message was "Join

Philoptochos and help us continue the work of the heart". Every women received a red carnation or a red tulip that had a

red heart label on it with the message.

Front row : Froso Kallas, Coca Popescu, Georgia Pardalos, Roxanne Liras, Karen Sade, Vicki Kardon. Second row: Arita

Travlos, Koula Kardon, Ina Cernusca, Soula Godas, Donna Hoffman, Irene Tergin, Rebecca Wippold, Presv. Jeannie

Monos. Back row: Betty Kontras, Mihaela Popescu, Maria Groza, Lena Schulte, Maria Kalaitzandonakes, Susan Gater,

Julie Kalatzandonakes, Julia Grant, Ronni Harwood (Cia Harwood behind her).

St. Mary, Minneapolis, MN held a fundraiser luncheon on March 18, 2012. Fr. Demetrios Katinas, Director of

Institutional Advancement at Hellenic College Holy Cross, gave a presentation on the school during the luncheon. The luncheon raised more than two thousand dollars in free will

offerings for Hellenic College Holy Cross

Sandra Anderson; Maria Miller; Angie Pappas; Jolene Rizk, Lamona Legeros; Matina Houck

Matina Houck; Presbytera Ione Filandrinos; Sandra Anderson; Nikol Gianopoulos

Jolene Rizk; Lamona Legeros; Matina Houck In foreground: Father Paul Paris

St. Demetrios, Chicago, IL celebrated the ladies who have been members of their philoptochos for 50 years held

during membership night.

Julia Georgas, Joanne Stavrakas, Angeline Sarelas, Jean Paspalas, Hari Halkias, Anastasia Weaver, Pat Atsaves,

Thalia Coorlas, Jean Tsiones, Pitsa Antonakos. 50 year members not pictured are Eva Nikelly,

Elizabeth Kanavos and Phylis Atsaves.

SS Constantine & Helen, Merriville, IN held their 4th annual spaghetti dinner.

Stacy Kavada, Joanna Mossow, and Andrew Kyres

Helen Poulos, Angela Kotsinis & Drosoula Vlesides

Maria Georgiadis serves a guest

St. Nectarios, Palatine, IL held their annual fashion show “Cruise to Fashion”

on October 1, 2011 at Concorde Banquets.

Leah Thomas, Katherine Bulman, Victoria Zervos, Diana Van Stedum, Eliana Psarros, Mia Iliopoulos,

Geena Eliades, Katherine Kokkinias...Strike a Pose!!

St. Nectarios Teen Models

St. Nectarios Child Models

Georgia Diamond, Sophia Panfil, Steffani Diamond, Diana Raftis, Katerina Galetsis, Julianna Mandarino, Nicholas D’Angelo, Samantha D’Angelo….Vogue!!

Ladies from the “Cruise To Fashion” Committee surrounded in a sea of beautiful blue colors:

Elaine McHale, Elizabeth Parhas, Caroline Williams, Dena Vranas, Mary Sue Solley, Fran Geary, Effie Galetsis,

Helen Elliott, Bea Lara, Bettie Siavelis, Marsha Serigos, Karen Vichos, Joanne Elliott, Kiki Korkofigas

And future philoptochos members

Listed Clockwise: Fr. Peter Balkas, Elaine Regopoulos, Stacie Regopoulos,

Mary Sourounis, Dimitri Tobias, Gus Menoudakis, Anastasia Menoudakis, Rachelle Hareng, Annette Russo,

Tina Pappas, Parish Council PresidentTed Pappas

Winners of the fabulous centerpieces Angie Mule and Marina Pappas

Chair ladies of “Cruise to Fashion” Effie Galetsis and Fran Geary

St. Sophia, Elgin, IL hosted the Metropolis Lenten Retreat

on March 10, 2012

The members of the St. Sophia of Elgin Philoptochos

Chefs and Helpers of St. Sophia Philoptochos

Pam Argyris, Kathy Katrakis, Maria Kroll, Angy Aroja

Aristaia Scott, Caroline Katrakis, Zoe Scott, Juliana Arsoniadis

Presvytera Karamitos, Maria Raleigh, Karen Spyratos, Anna Pangiotopoulos, Roula Erickson

Three Hierarchs, Champaign, Il held their annual Food Festival which enables Philoptochos to support some of

the local Food pantries in Champaign

First row: Jan Galaras, Georgine Poulos, & Marrissa

MacDuff, Back row: President Maria Laros, Elaine George, Connie Gyorr, little Julia & Toty Issa

All Saints Peoria, Il hosted Bonnie Hunter, Peoria County Health Representative, who addressed the Philoptochos

about Emergency Preparedness.

Mary Patton, Marice Thompson & Angeliki Kahuris. Not in photo is Julia Issa-Ghantous, President.

Elaine George, Connie Gyorr, little Julia, Marissa Macduff, Treasurer Toni Laros, Totty Issa

St. Demetrios, Elmhurst, IL held Vespers for the Metropolis Philoptochos Ladies on October 31, 2011 in the

Chapel of SS Cosmas and Damianos

Betty Papadakos, Eleni Zounis, Pitsa Panagiotopoulos, Georgia Ganas, Panagiota Kyriakos, Athena Lykouretzos,

Tasia Danigeles, Georgia Colovos, Tasia Velliotis, Elaine Karabatsos, Anna Pahopos, & Dorthoy Stojka

Fashion Show event held on February 17, 2012 at the Empress Banquets

Sandy Murphy, Julie Klaritis, Chairladies of the event and Athena Lykouretzos, President

The Philoptochos Metropolis Board wishes everyone a Happy Easter.

Ascension of our Lord, Lincolnshire, IL held their Glendi on Friday, February 10, 2012

at the Concorde Banquets.

Vicki Douvlis, Chapter President, George Houpis, Patty Metropoulos, Immediate Past President

Patty Metropoulos, Immediate Past President, Harriet Kyros, Philanthropy, Andrea Rogers, Chapter Vice President, Anna Duros, Treasurer, Faye Kopplin, Philanthropy

Carol Stamas, Past President, Kathie Rutkowski,Glendi Co-Chair, Maria Vlahos, Glendi Co-Chair

Ascension Youth

Christine Hiotis, Penny Geavaras and Netsa Antonakos preparing the Dolmades for the Open House….MM!!

Irene Arsoniadis and Patty Tsaoussis. A women’s work is never done!! Susan Regos, Penny Geavaras, Pam Argyris, Elaine

Paloumpis. September luncheon held at Rosewood Banquets.

Olga Paxinos, Renna Lembares and Janet Koliopoulos setting up for the Open House

Looks what’s been happening since September 2011

Keynote Speaker Christopher Kantis, Irene Arsoniades, His Eminence Metropolitan IAKOVOS of Chicago, Patty Tsaoussis, Keynote Speaker Peter Giannaris,

Joanne Stavrakas during September luncheon.

The wonderful ladies of the Metropolis Philoptochos board Cathy Gofis, Marilyn Tzakis, Arlene Siavelis, Penny

Geavaras, Irene Arsoniadis, Pam Argyris, Christina Hiotis, Kathy Siavelis, Georgia Gavaras seated:Joanne Stavrakas

Metropolis Philoptochos officers’ election night.

Lena Angelos, Kathy Siavelis at the September luncheon.

City-Wide Vasilopita Celebration held at St. George, Schererville, IN

Looks what’s been happening since September 2011

Participants of English Lecture Metropolis Philoptochos Annual Lenten Retreat

Penny Geavaras, Irene Arsoniadis, Joanne Stavrakas Metropolis Philoptochos Annual Lenten Retreat

Guests enjoying their lunch at the Lenten retreat Metropolis Philoptochos Annual Lenten Retreat

4/28 SS Constantine & Helen, Palos Hills: Spring fundraiser 4/28 St. Athansios, Aurora: Festival of tables 5/05 SS Constantine & Helen, Merriville, IN: Annual dinner fundraiser for Ross Township Food Pantry 5/05 St. Nicholas, St. Louis, Mo: Mothers day walk/ brunch fundraiser 5/10 St. George, Schereville, IN: Annual style show 5/12 All Saints Church, Joliet: Festival of Tables 5/19 St John the Baptist, Des Plaines: Mad-hatters fundraiser luncheon 5/19 Metropolis Chapter Presidents Mtg, Assumption Chicago 6/08 SS Peter & Paul, Glenview: Spring benefit “A Night at the Taverna” 07/01-07/05 Clergy– Laity & Philoptochos Conference, Phoenix, AZ 09/07-09/09 St. Mary’s Minneapolis, MN: Festival Bake Sale 9/22 Metropolis Annual Luncheon, Rosewood Banquets 10/4 St. Demetrios, Chicago: October Harvest Night 10/6 St. Nectarios, Palatine: Luncheon and Fashion Show 10/13 Metropolis Chapter Presidents Mtg , St. Iakovos Retreat Center 10/20 Holy Apostles, Westchester: Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show at the Carlise 10/31 SS. Cosmas and Damianos Vespers: St. Demetrios Elmhurst 11/9-11/11 St Demetrios Chicago: Christmas Bazaar 12/16 Metropolis of Chicago Christmas Open House

We, as members of the National Philoptochos Society, are committed to helping those in need. Our chapters support 17 National ministry commitments, which were passed by the delegates at our Biennial National Conventions. The impact of your donations cannot be measured as we endeavor to help those less fortunate. Remember to use the coupon books (which identify which commitment to send in) that have been sent to each chapter, and remit directly to: The National Philoptochos Office 7 West 55th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10019. For additional information, visit www.philotochos.org

2012 National Philoptochos Biennial Convention

Phoenix, Arizona July 1-4th, 2012

Be part of celebrating 80

years of philanthropy

Help plan the next 80 years of service

Mission Statement The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, Inc. is the duly Accredited women’s philanthropic society of the Greek Or-thodox Archdiocese of America. The mission of the Society shall be: To Aid the poor, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed, the orphaned, the imprisoned, the widowed, the handicapped, the victims of disasters, to undertake the burial of the impoverished persons and to offer assistance to anyone who may need the help of the Church through fundraising efforts, And To promote the charitable, benevolent, and philanthropic pur-poses of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, through instructional programs, presentations, lectures, seminars and other educational resources; To preserve and perpetuate Orthodox Christian concepts and the Orthodox Christian Family, and through them, to promote the Greek Orthodox Faith and traditions, in accordance with its doc-trines, canons, discipline, divine worship, usages and customs; To promote participation in the activities of the Greek Orthodox community, with the cooperation of the Parish Priest and the Par-ish Council. The charitable work of the Society shall be performed with dis-cretion, courtesy and kindness.

Published by: The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society

Metropolis of Chicago

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