The Metropolis of Derkoi joyfully announces the revival of the Philoptochos Brotherhood of Makrochori, marking its return after 20 years of inactivity. This significant development was celebrated on Sunday, November 17, 2024, following the Divine Liturgy at the Church of St. George.
Elder Metropolitan Apostolos of Derkoi shared the momentous news with his congregation, declaring:
“Today, after about 20 years of dormancy due to various difficulties and obstacles, we rejoice in the reopening of the Philoptochos Brotherhood. We congratulate the ladies who, with a spirit of offering and self-sacrifice, are ready to contribute to the multifaceted ministry of our historic Holy Metropolis of Derkoi.”
In his heartfelt address, Metropolitan Apostolos praised the ethos and dedication of the Brotherhood’s members, expressing hope that their efforts would yield fruitful outcomes for the benefit of both the local Community of Makrochori and the Greek diaspora at large. He also underscored the importance of collective support for such initiatives, emphasizing the necessity of genuine care for the future of Hellenism. “I hope those indifferent to the prosperity of our Community will reconsider and, through reflection and humility, recognize the importance of supporting Hellenism,” he stated.
In response, Mrs. Despina Pestemaltzioglou, the President of the Brotherhood, expressed her gratitude for the Metropolitan’s encouragement. With deep emotion, she reaffirmed the commitment of the women to their mission, saying: “We will always remember the immense contributions of the Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate to Orthodoxy and Romiosyni, led by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and supported by dedicated Metropolitans like yourself, Your Eminence. Despite the challenges, we, the women of this Community, are here with a spirit of love, solidarity, and mutual aid, ready to serve for the benefit of all.”
The event concluded with the introduction of the Brotherhood’s core members:
Despina Pestemaltzioglou, Despina Karanikola, Frosso Lotsi, Sandra Ioakeimidou, Maria Stavridou, Lydia Pestemaltzioglou, and Athanasia Lotsi.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
