The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society of the Archdiocese of America was honored by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America in a encyclical that was read in all churches across the Archdiocese.
In his message, the Archbishop commended the “virtuous members of Philoptochos” for their constant presence, encouragement, and invaluable support to the Archdiocese. These deaconesses of Christ devote their actions and efforts to serving those whose lives are not as comfortable as ours, he noted.
He further emphasized that “the charitable and social work of the Ecumenical Patriarchate also greatly benefits from Philoptochos, as its members continually demonstrate their filial devotion and love for the Mother Church, following in the blessed footsteps of the healing Saints Anargyroi.”
Despite the distance, he highlighted, though we are on the other side of the ocean, thousands of miles from the Mother Church, the incredible work of Philoptochos allows us to reach out to our spiritual brothers and sisters in need with acts of mercy and kindness. We are one Church and one family in Christ, and we must always care for our Mother Church, as Philoptochos so devotedly does.
Under the leadership of President Arlene Siavellis Kell, Vice President Annita Kartalopoulou, and the entire administration, the National Philoptochos of the Greek Orthodox Church in the United States serves as the primary charitable arm of the Archdiocese and a vital support to Archbishop Elpidophoros, with over 25,000 members nationwide.
Translation: Konstantinos Menyktas / Source: ANA-MPA
