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Philoptochos Corner

"Prayer is a harbor in the storms of life, an anchor for those who are storm-tossed, the treasure of the poor, the security of the rich, the healing of the sick, the preservation of health. Prayer banishes evil things, and preserves the good." attributed to St. John Chrysostom

HEARTFELT CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU TO...
Philoptochos has named Father Nicholas Bacalis this year’s “Father of the Year.” This recognition was appropriately announced after Sunday services on Father’s Day. Father Nicholas expressed he was moved to receive an Icon of the Transfiguration as a gift from Philoptochos. Our dedicated and compassionate priest was ordained to the priesthood on the Feast Day of the Transfiguration. Therefore, the Icon has special meaning for his continued sacred ministry. We appreciate Father Nicholas’s spiritual leadership, his many kindnesses, his humanitarian spirit and the devotion he has with Philoptochos and all parishioners.

This year’s Sister of the Year is Irene Calos. We could easily say this sister is ubiquitous (she seemed to be everywhere at the Festival and almost at the same time!), keenly knowledgeable, steady, dependable, and humble. Irene is a strong leader, a hard worker, and a one-thousand fold giver to our Cathedral. We appreciate Irene’s giving of her time and talents.

A LOVELY NAME DAY REMEMBRANCE

A special occasion was initiated this year with Vesper service commemorating the Name Day of Saints Constantine and Helen on Thursday, May 20. A potluck supper, hosted by Philoptochos, followed the services. The evening was a lovely and meaningful way to gather with parishioners as a Cathedral family. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the potluck.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AT THE GREEK FESTIVAL!

Volunteering for the 34th Annual Greek Festival was a wonderful experience for Philoptochos. We were everywhere, from the pastry booth to the food lines to the standing room only at the loukoumades to the drive through to the church tours and more. We could feel the excitement of the crowds. For publicity this year, cut-out characters representing a family said distinctively Greek quips, such as the mustached-laden father who sees his daughter mixing a tantalizing Horiatiki salata, and says, “You should be married by now!” Other responses were equally characteristic, “You need to eat! You don’t eat enough!” and “More feta!” All statements were in good humor. In retrospect, the clever quips point to a truth that every Philoptochos sister can identify with: the joy of belonging to a family. Philoptochos President Sasa Howard thanks all members. “We needed you,” she said, “And, you came. There was a place for everyone and the need was everywhere. Thank you!” Smiling, she adds, “Also, please keep in mind when called over the summer to host a monthly meeting or participate in Torch Club, please say yes. We appreciate your involvement.”

A DELIGHTFUL PHILOPTOCHOS LUNCHEON

The end of the year luncheon at Westwood Country Club was held on June 13th. Thank you to gracious hostess, Espie Stames, for coordinating this event. The lunch was delicious and the company (the Greek word, “parea”, says it all) was marvelous. The luncheon’s highlight was when Irene Calos was named “Sister of the Year.” She was received by thunderous applause, smiles, and a standing ovation. We were happy to see the Calos families and Father and Presbytera Dombalis at our luncheon.

CONGRATULATIONS

Four $500 scholarships from Philoptochos have been awarded to Matthew Gerard, Steve Kokorelis, Kristen Pappoulakos, and Alexandra Hall. We thank our President Sasa, Officers and Board of Directors for another year of great leadership. We wish everyone a happy, healthy and restful summer!
-Kathryn Helen Geranios


	Parish Council Highlights Jim Katsaros offered the financial report, stating that stewardship is up $12,000.00 from last year. Two categories (building maintenance and property insurance) of expenses are high, but other expenses are in line with the budget. Dr. Bill Lucas is the new chairman of the Investment Committee and he reported on the committee’s first meeting. An update on the festival was given and budgeted expenses are in line. Volunteer Festival T-shirts will be available for $5.00. By-laws Chairman Jim Katsaros reported that he had received a few inquiries about the proposed By-laws revision but no feedback. A new computer program for financial reporting has been ordered and free training will be offered. Andrea Junes Baker reported that the Welcoming Committee is off to a good start and reminded Council members to put the guest card in the collection tray. John Toutsi thanked the Council members and our Cathedral organizations for the successful Scholarship Luncheon and the funding of our community scholarships. Under old business, the old Endowment Fund has been dissolved and the new Endowment Trust is in the name of the Cathedral. Bill Benos was commended for his help in this matter. A buzzer is in place to notify the Religious Education teachers when church services are completed. The recent Parish Council retreat was discussed and feedback was positive. The hiring of Sheriff’s deputies for the month of May is completed and no further assignments will be made during the summer. The Organizations Welcome Sunday went well and will be repeated in the Fall. CARITAS Family Focus Program will be hosted by our Cathedral the week of January 3rd. For new business sixteen names were nominated as candidates to serve on the Endowment Trust Board. A secret ballot took place by Council members and the results will be announced at the next meeting. Fr. Nicholas and Maria Keritsis reported on the Metropolis Clergy-Laity and encouraged participation at the Archdiocese Clergy-Laity in July. A motion passed to move our investment funds from UBS to another account to avoid incurring unreasonable service fees. Various comments were made for the good of the order.
	Philoptochos Corner "Prayer is a harbor in the storms of life, an anchor for those who are storm-tossed, the treasure of the poor, the security of the rich, the healing of the sick, the preservation of health. Prayer banishes evil things, and preserves the good." attributed to St. John Chrysostom HEARTFELT CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU TO... Philoptochos has named Father Nicholas Bacalis this year’s “Father of the Year.” This recognition was appropriately announced after Sunday services on Father’s Day. Father Nicholas expressed he was moved to receive an Icon of the Transfiguration as a gift from Philoptochos. Our dedicated and compassionate priest was ordained to the priesthood on the Feast Day of the Transfiguration. Therefore, the Icon has special meaning for his continued sacred ministry. We appreciate Father Nicholas’s spiritual leadership, his many kindnesses, his humanitarian spirit and the devotion he has with Philoptochos and all parishioners. This year’s Sister of the Year is Irene Calos. We could easily say this sister is ubiquitous (she seemed to be everywhere at the Festival and almost at the same time!), keenly knowledgeable, steady, dependable, and humble. Irene is a strong leader, a hard worker, and a one-thousand fold giver to our Cathedral. We appreciate Irene’s giving of her time and talents. A LOVELY NAME DAY REMEMBRANCE A special occasion was initiated this year with Vesper service commemorating the Name Day of Saints Constantine and Helen on Thursday, May 20. A potluck supper, hosted by Philoptochos, followed the services. The evening was a lovely and meaningful way to gather with parishioners as a Cathedral family. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the potluck. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP AT THE GREEK FESTIVAL! Volunteering for the 34th Annual Greek Festival was a wonderful experience for Philoptochos. We were everywhere, from the pastry booth to the food lines to the standing room only at the loukoumades to the drive through to the church tours and more. We could feel the excitement of the crowds. For publicity this year, cut-out characters representing a family said distinctively Greek quips, such as the mustached-laden father who sees his daughter mixing a tantalizing Horiatiki salata, and says, “You should be married by now!” Other responses were equally characteristic, “You need to eat! You don’t eat enough!” and “More feta!” All statements were in good humor. In retrospect, the clever quips point to a truth that every Philoptochos sister can identify with: the joy of belonging to a family. Philoptochos President Sasa Howard thanks all members. “We needed you,” she said, “And, you came. There was a place for everyone and the need was everywhere. Thank you!” Smiling, she adds, “Also, please keep in mind when called over the summer to host a monthly meeting or participate in Torch Club, please say yes. We appreciate your involvement.” A DELIGHTFUL PHILOPTOCHOS LUNCHEON The end of the year luncheon at Westwood Country Club was held on June 13th. Thank you to gracious hostess, Espie Stames, for coordinating this event. The lunch was delicious and the company (the Greek word, “parea”, says it all) was marvelous. The luncheon’s highlight was when Irene Calos was named “Sister of the Year.” She was received by thunderous applause, smiles, and a standing ovation. We were happy to see the Calos families and Father and Presbytera Dombalis at our luncheon. CONGRATULATIONS Four $500 scholarships from Philoptochos have been awarded to Matthew Gerard, Steve Kokorelis, Kristen Pappoulakos, and Alexandra Hall. We thank our President Sasa, Officers and Board of Directors for another year of great leadership. We wish everyone a happy, healthy and restful summer! -Kathryn Helen Geranios
	Greek School Dear Greek School Parents and Students, Have a wonderful & relaxing summer! Have a safe, enjoyable trip to all the students traveling to Ionian Village & Yuppi Camp in Greece! We look forward to hearing how your experiences went. Please remember to keep up with your Greek school work and we will see everyone September 13th, 2010 at 4:30pm “Back to School Night”. Thank you, Stacy Kovanes, GS PTA President
	MICAH INITIATIVE As the school year draws to a close, I would like to again thank all the members of the Cathedral for your continued support of John B. Cary Elementary School and the Micah Initiative. During the course of the past year, Cathedral members have volunteered countless hours and responded to several donation drives. Our dedicated volunteers served in several capacities this year: we supplied monthly readers, weekly tutors, after school help, and guest speakers for children’s dental health month and career day. The school recognized our volunteers with a special reception on June 14. Thanks to the generosity of the Sunday School and Philoptochos throughout the year, we donated hundreds of dollars, school supplies, gift cards, prizes and most recently, hundreds of books for the end of the year book swap. All of your efforts are greatly appreciated by the students, teachers and staff of John B. Cary and they join me in wishing you a wonderful summer! - BethAnn Lucas
	Icons for Sunday School Classrooms We thank those who have offered to donate an icon for a Sunday School room. We are seeking additional donors so that each classroom will have an icon of either Christ or the Theotokos. The cost is $55.00 so the icon is large enough to be meaningful. Please contact Fr. Nicholas if you would like to be a donor.
	Pastry Booth Report Dear Cathedral members and friends, Another festival is now behind us. What a great festival it was. Everyone worked very hard for the success that we had. First of all I want to thank Irene Calos for having the pastry room supplied with the containers and the supplies that we needed and to George Vithoulkas for setting up the Pastry Room . We began packaging pastries on Sunday, May 30th and continued until Sunday June 6th. We could not have done this without the help of so many parishioners and friends. We had packaged 3500 packages of assorted pastries by Friday evening and continued to package baklava until Sunday afternoon . A special thank you to the booth chairpersons: Carol Loupassi for Thursday with her group of workers, Dianna Gettes and her group on Friday, Vera Gerard and her group on Saturday and to Athena Agapis and her group on Sunday. Also thanks to the ladies who chaired the inside pastry table: Sharon Gemelos and her group for Thursday, Ruth Catherines and her group for Friday and Saturday and Elaine Tsamouras and her group for Sunday. Without the help from all of you, we could not have had this great success. A big thank you to Tony Velegris for helping us out in the pastry room for all four days and more.Thank you also to Aliki Konstant and Amy Constantino for closing the pastry room for me at night. We all worked with joy and happiness and that is what makes our booth: “The sweetest booth of the festival.” Have a great summer and I look forward to seeing you all soon. Once again many thanks. In Christ’s love, Pat Sotos
	To all Volunteers in the Gyro Booth A huge thank you to each of you for your hard work during the Festival in the Gyro Booth! Your time, energy and effort was a big part in the success of our Festival this year. We fought through the heat, the storm, and the crowds on the island of Gyro and we had fun! So to each of you, thank you so much. There are still Gyro Squad T-shirts available for sale for only $14.00 to any cathedral member. Please email Andrea at kuklab@aol.com if you are interested! Yours in Gyro, Jimmy Stames, Andrea and Glynn Baker, Booth Chairs
	Stepping Stones in the Divine Liturgy The 2010 Vacation Church School revealed to our children the Divine Liturgy or “the Work of the People” through Stepping Stones. This journey took place with songs, crafts, games, and of course some physical nourishment as well. New friends were made and the older students bonded as well. As the closing celebration took place, each child, team leader, and adult volunteer were also in a new place, we pray a place closer to Christ. Thank you to our volunteers who gave of their time, talent and love to make this year’s VBS a success. Thank you to the families for their generous support, love and patience.
	Old Trails by Fr. John Manuel Took a walk the other day with Oscar…Oh, who’s Oscar? Well, for those of you who don’t know, he is our pampered and over-sized family dog. As you can imagine, he is often in the midst of our everyday encounters. At any rate, we took a walk, which, as far as I can tell, is the center of Oscar’s day. And so it was that my youngest daughter and I treated Oscar not only for a walk, but this time a wonderful traipse through the woods at the nearby Pony Pasture. With the temperature hovering somewhere between 95 and a thousand degrees, Oscar was delighted with our destination, since it featured many splashes and wadings in the steadily flowing James River. As you can well imagine, it was a delightful day for both man and beast. It was also a good place for my mind to wander….And so, as we were wending our way through the thicket of woods, I noticed that the trail we were following was handsomely cleared for us. This was certainly no mean feat, as the brush and the weeds and the storm-tossed logs and branches could easily have hindered our way. Instead, we were treated to a clear path. While this may not seem like a surprise to anyone---after all, someone had to do the heavy work---still, it occurred to me how blessed we were to be on paths that had already been cleared. Indeed, these trails were not only cleared, they were manicured for our ease and simplicity of movement. Brush and rocks were cleared, over-hanging branches were trimmed, and even sand was laid out to provide a comfortable way for way-worn walkers such as ourselves. Clearly, some industrious folks who preceded us had set about this task of clearing these woods for the sole purpose of easing our way forward. And so it was that the longer I walked, the more grateful I became, thankful for such blessings and the evidence of tasks so well accomplished. I bring up this observation as an obvious metaphor…For it is important, every once in a while, to remember and to be grateful for those who came before us, those who set our way so clearly and so courageously. One could, of course, refer this observation to our country’s founding fathers, to those who established us so comfortably in this great country of ours, or to any forbears. But in my mind’s eye, I cannot help but think of the Holy Apostles and the great martyrs, men and women of supreme faith, who established what we now call so casually “The Church.” We do not readily reckon what courage it must have taken to stand for the Lord, when the price was exile or even death. We do not think what genius was employed to set up the foundations of our Faith---the feast days, the fasts, the worship, the noble works of love and philanthropy. We do not even imagine what commitment it took to lead a life of holiness and selflessness, and yet…Here we are, now centuries later, amongst icons and incense and all the accoutrements of our holy Orthodox Faith, all of it put together to ease our way to the Lord and the salvation He offers us. Here we are…so tremendously blessed with a clear and straight path to God. And so it is right to observe these great and noble gifts, which we have so bountifully received, and to say thank you. And more than just gratitude, it is also our calling to preserve these blessings---this great inheritance of “The Church,” to ensure its vitality for future generations, that they too may discover the Lord on the path that has been so courageously cleared for them.
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