NEW YORK – The ordination to the episcopacy of Very Rev. Apostolos Koufallakis filled the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity with friends and well wishers as far away as California on December 20.

Archbishop Demetrios of America addressed the congregation emphasized the importance of the connection of the bishop with the people of God. He likened the work the clergy and laity undertake together to the creation of music by an orchestra. Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Franscisco expressed a variation on that theme developed at the luncheon the St. Demetrios Cathedral held in the new bishop’s honor at the Terrace on the Park.
In 2004-2011 Bishop Apostolos, who was born and raised on Rhodes, was appointed Dean of the Cathedral in Astoria and in 2011 he was transferred to the Metropolis of San Francisco to serve as its chancellor, a position he will continue to hold.
Among the hierarchs were Metropolitans Iakovos of Chicago, Methodios of Boston, Nicholas of Detroit, Savas of Pittsburgh and Evangelos of New Jersey. Bishops Philotheos, who just celebrated his 90th birthday, Bishop Anthimos and Sevastianos were also present along with local clergy and priests from the Metropolis of San Francisco.
The ordination occurred prior to the scriptural readings during the Archieratical Divine Liturgy, the highlight of which was Fr. Koufallakis’ participation in the Dance of Isaiah, reminiscent of the Orthodox wedding service. He was led three times around the altar table, symbolizing the bishop’s marriage to the church.
After receiving his vestments from the Metropolitans on the Cathedral’s marble solea he assumed his formal title Bishop Apostolos of Medeia amid cries of “axios – worthy!” which rang out often during the alter luncheon exuberantly echoed by the children in attendance

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NEW YORK – The Harvard Club in New York is decorated to the nines for Christmas – one of the most glorious trees in Manhattan can be found there – and this year it was again scene more of the Annunciation–Evangelismos Church’s Mistletoe Gala.
The opening reception for the dinner was held in venerable Harvard Hall with its portraits of illustrious alums like FDR – and the tree that soars to the ceiling.
After the guests for the dinner passed into the neighboring Main Dining Hall, young professionals filled the space for fun, fellowship and a delicious buffet – but they were welcome to follow the sit-down diners other hall for dancing.
The guests were greeted by Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert, the Annunciation’s pastor. The gala is the parish’s main fundraising event, but Fr. Gilbert reminded that “stewardship is not just a financial contribution. It’s about gifts, he said, and added that the church welcomes everyone’s time and talent, not only their treasure.
Fr. Gilbert called the event a family gathering. “All of you who are members and friends of the Annunciation,” including Amb. George Iliopoulos, the Consul General of Greece, and his wife Anthousa, whom he acknowledged, “are a family…Today as a family we break bread together, dance, and enjoy fellowship.”
The pastor thanked everyone who contributed to making it a special night, including Casandra Romas, who once again served at gala chairperson.
Parish Council President Dr. John Getsos also praised Romas, “who year after year,” oversees the planning and the affair “with grace and purpose,” and thanked Fr. Gilbert for his spiritual leadership.
Dr. Getsos also thanked all the people who make Evangelismos a great parish, including the Sunday and Greek school teachers, choir members and all the staff and volunteers. He gave a brief history of the parish founded in 1892 that is approaching its 125th anniversary.
2014 has been a good year. Father Gilbert told TNH the parish is very happy with the renovation of Demas Hall. Two Sunday school grades were added this year, the Greek dancing and Young Professionals groups are growing and Father Gilbert holds a Synaxia discussion group that meets after Paraklesis services twice a month.
On January 11th there will be a procession to the Hudson River for the blessing of the waters
The parish also participates in Midnight Run, a consortium of more than 150 religious institutions. They gather clothes from people who wish to donate to the homeless and also distribute food at designated locations. Evan Tsevdos coordinates the project.
Marilena Christodoulou, the Director of Finance & Administration of the Rubin Museum of Art, and her husband Ari live on the East side of Manhattan, but they enjoy attending the gala and supporting Evangelismos, which she said is “a special place. They have great programs and events.”
Staz Tsiavos comes for fellowship and to remember Fr. James Moskovites of blessed memory, but he was also one of the night’s volunteers. “We are thankful for our God-given talents and we give back freely,” he said of himself and his fellow volunteers.
Constantine Larigakis, who was recently appointed CFO of Sigmapharm Laboratories, travels every year from the Philadelphia, both to get a taste of New York for the holidays, and to support the Annunciation and enjoy the gala with the friends he usually brings and the friends he sees there. “It’s one of the best events in New York City,” he told TNH.

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ENGLEWOOD, NJ – His Beatitude Patriarch Ioannis of Antioch in an exclusive interview with TNH spoke about the situation in Syria and Middle East due to the continuous war, and his missing biological brother Pavlos Metropolitan of Halepion, who was kidnaped a year and a half ago along with Syriakovite Metropolitan Ioannis, also of Halepion.
Patriarch Ioannis made a quick visit to the United States and presided at the enthronement of His Eminence Joseph, the new Archbishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
Ioannis, who is widely well-respected, is third in rank in the ecclesial system and structure of the Orthodox Church after Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and Patriarch Theodoros of Alexandria.
Ioannis studied at the Theological School of the University of Thessaloniki. He speaks Greek fluently and the entire interview was conducted in Greek.
The interview, translated here in English, is as follows:
TNH: Your Beatitude, you have studied at the University of Thessaloniki. What do you think about Hellenism? What does Hellenism mean to you?
PI: First of all I spent some very important years of my life in Hellenism, which means a lot to us. Hellenism is the education, the mentality, and especially the Greek language, which is the language of the Fathers, the language of the Gospel. There are so many things in the Greek language.
TNH: Do you use any Greek in the Liturgy, in the worship?
PI: Yes, we do, especially the Cherubic hymn and the Axion Estin.
TNH: What message do you wish to send to the Greek-American Community?
PI: We love you very much and since we are approaching Christmas, “glory to God in the highest and peace on earth and good will to mankind.” To have love and peace and to be as close as you can to your brothers of the Patriarchate of Antioch, especially during these difficult days we are going through.
TNH: How would you describe the situation in Syria today?
IP: The situation as you know is very difficult and we all wish for a peaceful solution for the area. We are doing everything we can. We have very good people who love peace.
TNH: What are some of the most serious problems your Patriarchate faces today?
IP: First of all, the extremism that exists there. The intolerance. We are in the fourth year of war and many churches and mosques have been destroyed. Many people and families were forced to go elsewhere. Many have been killed. The conditions are very difficult.
TNH: Do you have anything new information about the kidnapped hierarchs, your brother Pavlos?
IP: Unfortunately, we have nothing new. Unfortunately, there is an international silence on the issue and I don’t know why.
TNH: Do you think there is a possibility that they are still alive?
IP: We wish and we believe that, but we don’t have any sign. They haven’t told us anything up to now.
TNH: Are you afraid for your personal safety? Are you afraid of your life?
IP: No, I live in Damascus at the Patriarchate and I do my program as usual. Of course, one must be careful and all of us are careful because you can’t know when, where, and what could happen. I make pastoral visits in Syria as well in a very careful way. The people do come to church.
TNH: Have they ever insulted you? Have they bothered you?
IP: No, no, never.
TNH: How is your Patriarchate sustained financially?
IP: The people sustain it. These days are difficult. We are trying to help the people with programs from outside from NATO, for example.
TNH: How did you find your Archdiocese here in America? Did you find the members all well?
IP: Thank God everybody is well. It is the pride for the entire Orthodoxy and of course for our Patriarchate. I visited the Greek Archdiocese with His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. It is a great joy to see that all Orthodox are united in America as a spiritual family.
TNH: Since you spoke about love and unity of the Orthodox in America, what is your opinion and how the problem of the Orthodox Diaspora can be resolved here in the United States?
IP: A decision was made in 2009 for the establishment of Assemblies of the Orthodox Canonical Bishops, which is the first step. We hope to have the Great Synod in 2016 and we could discuss this very serious issue of the Diaspora.
TNH: Do you think that the Great Synod will be convened for sure in 2016?
IP: Yes we hope that it will be convened.
TNH: Are you going to participate in the Synod personally?
IP: Certainly, of course I will go.
TNH: Could the unity of all Orthodox jurisdictions be achieved under the Ecumenical Patriarchate and let the various jurisdictions keep their own characteristics?
IP: This issue should be discussed. Our position is a positive one, but we have to discuss it.
TNH: How can the Greek-American Community help your Patriarchate and the Orthodox in your area?
TNH: One way is by publicizing the truth of what is going on in the Middle East, and that we have roots there, we are from there. We have not come to the Middle East from outside. Also, we thank His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, who expressed his love even with financial help for the philanthropic actions of our Patriarchate. Many people are in great need.
TNH: What is your opinion about the second marriage of priests in case of death of their wife or even divorce?
IP: We are discussing these issues. Many now allow such marriage for humane purposes and out of leniency.
TNH: How are your relations with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem?
IP: There is the issue of Qatar, but we hope to find a peaceful solution. We don’t agree with their action in establishing the Metropolis of Qatar, but we are in communication.”
TNH: Should we go back to the original tradition of the Church and have married Bishops?
IP: Sometimes we discuss issues like this, but it is difficult because we now have a tradition. Those issues need to be discussed.

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Continuing for the ninth consecutive year, “FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism” will once again sponsor a series of financial aid travel grants this summer to campers participating in the Ionian Village Summer Camp program. FAITH provides full and partial scholarships to those participants that qualify for need-based financial aid.
Each year, Ionian Village participants travel across Greece, venerating the relics of the Saints, walking in the footsteps of the Apostles, and visiting significant sites of Greek history and culture. At the end of each program, the campers, staff and clergy return home with strengthened faith, life-long friendships based on Christian love, and an expanded appreciation for the Orthodox Church and Greek culture.
Elaine Jaharis, a Founder of the Endowment, Ionian Village Alumna and Chair of the Committee spoke on behalf of the Founders, “We (the Founders of Faith) are proud to support young people wishing to participate in Ionian Village. The Camp, provides a truly transformative and enriching experience for intellectual and spiritual growth as well as forming life-long friendships as these young people connect to their Hellenic roots. For over 40 years, Ionian Village has been and still is the premiere program for the young Greek Americans to understand their Hellenic heritage and identity and we are very pleased to offer this financial aid opportunity through our program.”
In 2014, FAITH underwrote 42 full and partial financial aid travel grants for young people to attend the Ionian Village Summer Camp. Each year, FAITH funds a series of several scholarship programs including many merit-based scholarships for the FAITH Academic Excellence Scholarships to high school students graduating from public, parochial and private high schools across the country.
FAITH – Ionian Village Travel Grant applications are now available for participants of Session One and Session Two, ages 14-18: www.faithendowment.org. Completed applications must be received by January 30.
FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism supports the development of innovative educational, cultural, and scholarship programs for young people that promote an understanding of the Orthodox faith, Hellenism, and the relationship of the two to America’s history and multicultural landscape. For more information, please call: 212-644-6960.

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TARPON SPRINGS, FL – In a week during which much of the United States has been covered by a cold, snowy blanket, temperatures in the mid-50s seem quite balmy by comparison, and even a mid-afternoon cross dive is bearable.

Particularly for 18 year-old Konstantinos Pseftelis, who on January 6 retrieved the cross during the 109^th Epiphany celebration in his native Florida city of Tarpon Springs.

The St. Petersburg College student retrieved the cross with ease – about twelve seconds after Archbishop Demetrios, who presided over the celebration, tossed it into the Spring Bayou, the site of Tarpon’s annual celebration.

“I jumped in, I saw it floating,” Pseftelis told Bay News 9.

The previous day marked the traditional blessing of the waters, conducted by Metropolitan Nikitas of the Dardanelles, who, like Pseftelis is also a Tarpon native and who as a teenager also retrieved the cross in the 1974 dive.

“I won’t say, ‘Good luck,’ because I’m a clergyman and I don’t believe in luck,” Nikitas told the divers, the Tampa Tribune reported, “but may God bless you all.”

Nikitas (Lulias) and his brother, John, are set to be honored over the weekend “at a special event, for all of their contributions to the community,” Tina Bucuvalas, Curator of Arts and Historical Resources for the City of Tarpon Springs, told TNH.

Chris Alahouzos, who served for six years as a Commissioner and Vice Mayor of Tarpon Springs and has announced his candidacy for mayor, told TNH that it is particularly great that people from all around the United States flock to Tarpon for the annual event, “as it gives us a chance to share our Greek history and culture” with the rest of America. The Epiphany celebration began with a Liturgy at the St. Nicholas Cathedral, a short walk from the Bayou. This is the first year there for Fr. Anastasios Gounaris, who came to Tarpon Springs from New York this past June.

BITTERSWEET

There was some solemnity amid the jubilation, as there was a moment of silence before the dive in memory of Tarpon Springs Police Officer Charles “Charlie K” Kondek, who was killed in the line of duty just a couple of blocks from the Bayou a few weeks ago – the Sunday before Christmas (“Tragedy Strikes Tarpon Springs, Policeman Killed,” Dec. 27). The Cathedral presented the Tarpon Springs Police Department with a plaque in Kondek’s honor.

EPISCOPAL BEGINNINGS

It was in 1905 when Greek immigrants, mostly from Kalymnos and the surrounding Dodecanese islands, and also from Hydra, Spetses, and Aegina, settled in Tarpon Springs and the industry boomed, under John Cocoris, who relocated from New York City to revolutionize sponge diving there. The following year marked the beginning of the Epiphany celebration, but it was a year before the St. Nicholas parish was established. The Greeks of Tarpon had their celebration, but through an Episcopal Church. Rev. Dr. Thomas J. Lacey, Director of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Brooklyn, was invited to attend, and he did. He was so impressed with the entire experience that he returned 34 of the ensuing 36 years.

FOR THE YOUTH

Alahouzos told TNH that the cross dive is particularly good for Tarpon’s young Greek-Americans, as it helps to connect them with the Greek Orthodox faith and church. The divers become interested in the competition, but along the way they learn about the deeper significance – the baptism of Jesus Christ, he said. And he ought to know. “When I was young I dove for the cross three times. I never got it, but I tried,”

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BROOKLYN – The passing of the baton of leadership is one of the most important events in the life of a community. Its schools are where its future is born. Those two truths shine a spotlight on Maria Perdikogiannis Zolotas, who on January 5 began her tenure as principal of the A. Fantis Parochial School of the Cathedral of Sts. Constantine and Helen in Brooklyn.

Zolotas succeeds Dr. Alice B. Farkouh, who successfully guided the school from difficult times eight years ago through its 50th anniversary celebration in 2013.

Peter Vlitas, the president of the parish council, told TNH “Dr. Farkouh decided to retire and the community had been searching for a new principal for about two years. We waited over a year for Maria to retire from the Department of Education (DOE) and we are very excited and energized.”

Vlitas was president of the school board when Dr. Farkouh was hired. “We set a plan in action and accomplished all our goals. We created a diverse Christian school in Brooklyn Heights and we have a wait list. We offer Greek pedagogy, Orthodoxy and a high standard of education.”

“We needed to find a principal who will take us to the next level,” Vlitas said. “It was a grueling interview process that took months because it is a big job to turn over the mantle of the pride and joy of our community, the A. Fantis School.”

Zolotas brings a lifetime of dedication to education and Hellenism to her responsibilities.

Her father, Theodore Perdikogiannis and her mother Spiridoula are from Laconia who immigrated to the United States in the mid 1950s and met in English language night classes. She and Her younger brother Peter, who is a physician, grew up in Astoria and attended public school and Greek school at St. Demetrios Cathedral.

She loved her teachers and always wanted to be an educator. After her BS at Baruch and her Master’s in Education and Hunter College and a PD at Queens College.

Zolotas was offered a position at her alma mater, Long Island City High School where she was a teacher for 12 years and an assistant principal for 16.

Zolotas was simultaneously assistant principal for the Greek foreign language department, which entailed working with Archdiocesan officials, and she has been president of the school board of the afternoon Greek school for 15 years.

“A couple of years ago Fr. John Lardas and Peter Vlitas invited me to have a conversation and it ended up being an interview.”

She was very interested the school but when they called her Zolotas explained that it was not yet time for her to leave the DOE.

The moment arrived in 2014 and after speaking with Dr. Farkouh it was decided the latter would remain through Christmas.

Zolotas admires the work of Dr. Farkouh, whom she said was instrumental in raising enrollment when the school was in jeopardy.

The school has about 150 students, from universal Pre-K through the eighth grade. It is an ethnically diverse student body, but they all learn Greek.

“I saw that they are very eager to learn and their statistics are very good. We scored higher than all the other parochial schools among third, fourth and fifth graders,” she said.

Zolotas will spend a lot of time in classrooms.

“I will work with the teachers in terms of engaging the student more with their lessons, and giving them the opportunity to learn not only from their teachers but from each other.”

Her career with the DOE exposed her to numerous initiatives and innovative programs and she saw what does and does not work.

“During the past few months when I have been transitioning I have seen that we have a wonderful young faculty which is very dedicated and the kids enjoy being here.”

Her aim is to ensure quality education for all students and expand enrollment without losing the benefits of individual attention that has resulted placements in excellent high schools and prestigious universities.

In faculty and PTO meetings Zolotas has emphasized the value of student trips to New York’s great institutions both for general enrichment and exposure to things related to Hellenism and the works of great Hellenes. She noted the current El Greco exhibit at the Met.

“The parents are wonderful too; they are very involved with the school and the PTO is very active,” she said.

She will work closely with Dr. Kathy Tsamasiros, the School Board President, who has a doctorate in education with expertise in technology.

Zolotas has met with parents about plans for a system of online communication with teachers and the administration. “Parents will have important information at their fingertips.”

She and her husband Nicholas, who is a CPA, share a powerful commitment to the community. They have been married for 30 years and their daughter, Spiridoula, is a member of the Archdiocesan youth choir and volunteers at North Shore University Hospital. She aspires to be a pediatrician.

Nicholas has been very active at the Church of St. Nicholas in Flushing, where he has served as treasurer on the parish council and numerous other capacities.

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A TNH ANALYSIS

That the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America faces a serious financial problem with the Clergy Pension Fund, for not depositing the $600 monthly contribution the last three years towards the Fund for its 90-plus clergy and lay employees, as TNH revealed last month, is a very serious issue.

First of all, the Archdiocese wound up owing more than $3 million to the Fund. Second, there is an ethical issue here, since each parish is obligated to contribute $600 per month to the Fund for the priest, including parishes with part-time priests.

The issue was first disclosed at the Clergy Laity Congress in July in Philadelphia by Rev. Peter Giannakopoulos from the St. George parish in Hyannis Cape Cod, MA.

Jerry Dimitriou, Director of Administration of the Archdiocese and also Director of the Finances, and Rev. Giannakopoulos consistently refused to honor TNH’s requests for comments.

On the other hand, those priests who spoke with TNH even on the conditions of anonymity due to the fear of retaliation by their Metropolitans and the Archdiocese in general should be congratulated. The fear that exists among the priests is certainly out of this world. They are afraid of their Metropolitans, who are not “fathers” to them, but rather “tyrants and despots.” And the priests owe their clerical positions and salaries and benefits to them.

If Fr. Giannakopoulos didn’t play the role of whistleblower, the issue would have remained buried. I am wondering how many other serious and pivotal issues are covered up by the system and the Archdiocese officials.

It is interesting that each parish is obligated to pay $600 monthly and if a parish has more than one priest it pays double or triple. Therefore, the parishes – which means, the faithful with their candles, donations, and contributions – pay for everything and for everyone in the Archdiocese.

The uncovered problem is further proof of the pathogenesis that exists in the mentality and the administration of the Archdiocese. The accumulation of so much authority and multi-responsibilities in the hands of one person, Jerry Dimitriou, is inconceivable and undoubtedly dangerous. It seems that he is the real archbishop, since he is in control of the Archdiocese’s administrative and financial matters.

His office as Director of Administration is something unknown to the ecclesial order because the par excellence Director of the Archdiocese should be the Archbishop and second in command his Chancellor. Why and how has Jerry Dimitriou become a “Superarchbishop”? To whom does he report? Did Archbishop Demetrios know about the clergy pension issue? And now that he knows, what has he done about it?

Moreover, how and why is it that Dimitriou is also Director of Finances? Who appointed the Finance Committee and using what criteria? (The things that were said during the Clergy Laity Congress in Philadelphia were quite bizarre.)

Where in all this is the so-called Eparchial Synod?

Who really governs the Archdiocese?

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NEW YORK – The Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity has always been a vibrant community even during transitional periods. Now, members and friends of the Cathedral – it has always drawn people from throughout the Metropolitan area – are getting excited by announcements of new programs and ministries initiated by the new Dean, Father John Vlahos.

Fr. Vlahos first served as a pastor at the Church of the Resurrection in Brookville, NY. He cherishes his time and the friends he made there, and now has poured himself wholeheartedly into the challenge of realizing the full potential of a Church on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

He has been meeting with numerous groups since his appointment last year and the efforts have begun to bear fruit, especially those aimed at young professionals.

Justin Bozonelis, a member of the Board of Trustees, was impressed from the start. He told TNH, that “soon after his appointment Fr. Vlahos met with the Board and after introducing himself, the first thing he did was read aloud an article that noted seven reasons why young adults leave the Church.”

That signaled to Bozonelis he was not just checking off the youth box on his to do list. “It is something near and dear to his heart…afterwards he and I had conversation about organizing the young adult ministry,” he said. “We kicked around ideas and called it Cathedral Connect.” He and Katherine Rolle are spearheading it.

SHOW ME THE 20 AND 30 YEAR OLDS

Their first success was part of the Chrysanthemum Ball and was attended by 340 young professionals. A similar event is planned as part of the 2015 Cathedral Ball scheduled for Friday June 5.

In December the group ran a coat drive for the needy, and over the next few months they are planning lectures, social and cultural events and a special presentation by a celebrity chef who will teach the participants one signature dish.

Bozonelis believes they have a golden opportunity under the leadership of youthful pastor with a young family.

Vlahos and Presbytera Constantina have two daughters Stelie,12 and Andreana, 5. His parents are from Corinth and Presbytera Constantina has roots in Patras and Ikaria. They both grew up in the parish of Sts. Constantine and Helen in Merrillville, IN.

Cathedral Connect is aimed at 20 and 30 year olds. Bozonelis further described the great opportunity and responsibility: “It’s New York City. Every year you have thousands of new college graduates, and all these Greeks come to the city and the one thing you can count on that should connect us is the Church.”

For Cathedral Connects philanthropic dimension, they are exploring partnering with groups like International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC).

Bozonelis and Relle are not alone. In two months the committee has gone from four people to 20. Athanasios Minetos, the Cathedral’s Protopsalti and Pastoral Assistant, is part of the team, but everyone is invited to contribute.

“If you have a cool Idea, want to do something different…ideas will be heard an acted on. We hold meetings once a month open to anyone who wants to join.” Those interested can email to connect@thecathedral.org to get on the mailing list for events.

MULTIDIMENSIONAL, MOSTLY

Common to most of the new Cathedral endeavors is the idea that each group, which caters to distinct demographics, will offer a mix of social, cultural and spiritual events.

Uniquity – as in “we are all unique but we have much in common” – is the Cathedral’s new ministry for single, widowed and divorced members and prospective members of its congregation and activities will include service projects to build the community seven days a week.

The first event was a great success, a Potluck Dinner and Comedy Night featuring comedienne Ellen Karis on January 16. More than 40 people enjoyed food, fellowship and funniness in the Cathedral Ballroom.

A game night – bring your favorite board game – will be held in February.

The two new groups are outgrowths of past successful ministries, the Cathedral Fellowship and the FOS lecture/discussion series.

One of Fr. Vlahos’ first initiatives is the Faith and Fellowship hour, an adult spiritual ministry which meets every Wednesday at 7PM after the Paraklisis service that commences at 6PM.

The Cathedral will also have a senior citizen’s club called The Prime Timers. Led by Carol Contos and Pauline Kotsilingas, there will be weekly gatherings and trips, lectures and service projects.

Two new groups will have a single focus, however. The Parea club led by James and Stella Pantelides will be strictly social. “It’s similar to the Mr. and Mrs. Clubs that many parishes had, but we don’t’ want to exclude anyone that is single and will have monthly or bi-monthly events,” Vlahos told TNH.

The Cathedral’s social calendar will be supplemented by two new events, a golf outing on May 18th and a street festival on September 12.

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NEW YORK – Archimandrite Vasileios, former Abbot of the Iveron Monastery of Mouth Athos, was the keynote speaker at the annual celebration of Greek letters on the occasion of the Feast Day of the Three Hierarchs presented by the Archdiocese of America.

Guests were welcomed to the nave of Holy Trinity by the Dean of the Cathedral, Fr. John Vlahos after a performance of the Archdiocesan Byzantine Choir. Archbishop Demetrios offered closing remarks.

The feast day of the three fathers of the Orthodox Church, St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory the Theologian and St. John Chrysostom, has traditionally been associated with Greek Paidea – especially the Greek language, because their appreciation for classical Greek learning was instrumental in its preservation after the triumph of Christianity in the Roman Empire.

Fr. Vasileios’ speech, titled “The Divine Liturgy as a Theophany of the Holy Trinity” was a moving presentation on the spiritual and humanizing power of the liturgy, but references to the beauty of the liturgical drama that envelops and inspires participants as it unfolds in the Greek language also reminds of the observation of philosopher Christos Yannaras, who called Orthodoxy the last remaining vessel of universal Hellenism.

Ioannis Efthymiopoulos, the Archdiocese’s National Director of the Department of Religious Education, who introduced Fr. Vasileios, also spoke briefly about what paidea meant to the Three Hierarchs, and of the continuing importance of their teachings, especially their messages of universal equality and of the philanthropic obligations of the well-off.

Fr. Vasileios preceded his prepared presentation with a homily on the relationship between Hellenism and Christianity that was translated into English by TNH columnist Christopher Tripoulas.

He began by noting that the Greeks have always been a small nation with great intellectual and spiritual demands. They sought the One, and absolute Beauty and Justice. Fr. Vasileios emphasized that the Greeks were not converted into Christians, rather, they found in the New Testament the answers to all the great questions posed by the philosophers.

He added that throughout history the Greeks sought freedom from death, and said that Byzantine iconography, which survived the death the Byzantine Empire, is Orthodox Church’s “gift of eternity” to humanity in the form of the icons of the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ.

He completed his transition to his lecture by noting “The Three Hierarchs, however, transcend letters words and philosophy by entering into the silence of eternity του μελοωτους αιωνος. In the words of St. John Chrysostom, while we can seek nature’s truth with human tools like language and logic, “but what is above nature, we can only honor through silence.”

Nevertheless, Fr. Vasileios said in his prepared text, the Divine Liturgy, elucidated by the Three Hierarchs, inducts communicants into the mystery of the Godhead in Trinity and enlightens them into the meaning of life.

“The Divine Liturgy is enjoyment because it convinces you that life is enjoyment. And life is enjoyment because it is a lot of pain and a cross too heavy to bear, but it ends in the Church in inexpressible joy ‘For behold, through the Cross has joy come to all the world.’ And the inexpressible joy…is the abolition of death.”

“The Divine Liturgy, the life of the Church, is based on this event of the Resurrection and the destruction of death.”

Thus the participants in the Divine Liturgy experience an epiphany: “It is the end, the conclusion, the Resurrection that throws light on everything. Without the Resurrection, everything is obscure and meaningless.”

The wise men and women of the world, Greeks and non-Greeks receive the answer to the great questions in the Resurrection: Man was not created for death.

But the Divine Liturgy includes messages for our times before the end: Peace and Love are its essence.

“The entire sacred action is celebrated in peace. ‘In peace let us pray to the lord….again and again in peace.’ And we conclude the whole service in the same peace: ‘Let us depart in peace.’”
Another great truth unfolds through the Liturgy: “Things are difficult and a major struggle is required,” in life, “But God’s love is great,” Fr. Vasileios said.

“You accept times of peace as a gift from God. And times of trial you accept as a preparation for blessings that you would not otherwise be able to receive. You remain calm amidst all the turmoil of your problems, because you can feel the presence of Him who transcends everything. “

After speaking about the climax of the Divine Liturgy, the offering of Holy Communion, he concluded with the story of the life and sublime death in 1971 of Yiayia Maria, a humble woman – not recognized as a saint – who demonstrated that the ‘successors to the great Fathers and

Ecumenical teachers are to be found…in the persons of completely unassuming and unknown believers.”

Archbishop Demetrios, who first met Fr. Vasileios 60 years ago, said during his remarks, “You can only imagine my joy to meet you again.”

The Archbishop expressed thanks to Alexander Press, whose founder John Hadjinicolaou and his colleagues travelled from Montreal and provided all the guests with the English text, and invited everyone to a reception in the Cathedral Ballroom, where everyone had the opportunity to speak with Fr. Vasileios.

Among the guests were Amb. George Iliopoulos and Amb. Vasilios Philippou, consuls general of Greece and Cyprus respectively, Manos Koubarakis, the Greek Consul, Bishop Sevastianos, Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis and Antonis Diamataris, Publisher-Editor of The National Herald.

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BROOKLYN – The Dimitrios & Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School of the Church of the Holy Cross in Brooklyn recently held an open house hosted Principal Francesca Mannino.

Classes range from Pre-K to 8th grade and the school’s mission statement can be found on its website: http://www.dgkschool.com

“We, as educators, strive to promote the expression of the Orthodox Christian way of life. We believe every child is unique and learning is an individualized and ongoing process. We recognize our opportunity and mutual obligation to develop within each child the skills, virtues and habits of heart and mind needed to meet the challenges of an ever-changing society. Through mutual respect our students will grow and learn in a positive atmosphere, where faculty, staff, parents and students together are enthusiastic about the learning process. To this end in attaining our philosophy we strive:

• To teach and practice Orthodox Christian values

• To help each student develop to his/her potential in an atmosphere which promotes self-esteem and confidence.

• To cultivate an appreciation and respect for others

• To identify the relationship among various subjects through a holistic approach to teaching which incorporates culture, religion and citizenship

• To promote cooperative learning in a mutually supportive environment which allows each child to perform to the best of his/her ability

• To employ teachers who present themselves as positive role models and create a nurturing environment in the classroom

• To maintain open channels of communications between school and home recognizing that the student is at the center

The post Kaloidis Parochial School Holds Open House in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn appeared first on The National Herald.

By George E. Demacopoulos

NEW YORK – One of the cornerstones of Orthodox Christianity is its reverence for the great Fathers of the Church who were not only exemplars of holiness but were also the greatest intellectuals of their age.  The writings of men like St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory the Theologian, and St. Maximos the Confessor have been and will always remain essential guides to Orthodox Christian living and Orthodox Christian faith.

Thus it is alarming that so many Orthodox clerics and monks in recent years have made public statements that reflect a “fundamentalist” approach to the Church Fathers.  And unless leaders of the Orthodox Church unite to repudiate this development, the entire Orthodox Church is at risk of being hijacked by extremists.

Like other fundamentalist movements, Orthodox fundamentalism reduces all theological teaching to a subset of theological axioms and then measures the worthiness of others according to them.  Typically, this manifests itself in accusations that individuals, institutions, or entire branches of the Orthodox Church fail to meet the self-prescribed standard for Orthodox teaching.  For example, when the Theological Academy of Volos recently convened an international conference to examine the role of the Fathers in the modern Church, radical opportunists in the Church of Greece accused it and its bishop of heresy.

The key intellectual error in Orthodox fundamentalism lies in the presupposition that the Church Fathers agreed on all theological and ethical matters.  That miscalculation, no doubt, is related to another equally flawed assumption that Orthodox theology has never changed—clearly it has or else there would have been no need for the Fathers to build consensus at successive Ecumenical Councils.

The irony, as identified by recent scholarship on fundamentalism, is that while fundamentalists claim to protect the Orthodox Christian faith from the corruption of modernity, their vision of Orthodox Christianity is, itself, a very modern phenomenon.  In other words, Orthodoxy never was what fundamentalists claim it to be.

Indeed, a careful reading of Christian history and theology makes clear that some of the most influential saints of the Church disagreed with one another—at times quite bitterly. St. Peter and St. Paul were at odds over circumcision.  St. Basil and St. Gregory the Theologian clashed over the best way to recognize the divinity of Holy Spirit.  And St. John Damascene, who lived in a monastery in the Islamic Caliphate, abandoned the hymnographical tradition that preceded him in order to develop a new one that spoke to the needs of his community.

It is important to understand that Orthodox fundamentalists reinforce their reductionist reading of the Church Fathers with additional falsehoods.  One of the most frequently espoused is the claim that the monastic community has always been the guardian of Orthodox teaching.  Another insists that the Fathers were anti-intellectual.  And a third demands that adherence to the teachings of the Fathers necessitates that one resist all things Western.  Each of these assertions is patently false for specific reasons, but they are all symptomatic of an ideological masquerade that purports to escape the modern world.

The insidious danger of Orthodox fundamentalists is that they obfuscate the difference between tradition and fundamentalism.  By repurposing the tradition as a political weapon, the ideologue deceives those who are not inclined to question the credibility of their religious leaders.

In an age when so many young people are opting out of religious affiliation altogether, the expansion of fundamentalist ideology into ordinary parishes is leading to a situation where our children are choosing between religious extremism or no religion at all.

It is time for Orthodox hierarchs and lay leaders to proclaim broadly that the endearing relevance of the Church Fathers does not lie in the slavish adherence to a fossilized set of propositions used in self-promotion.  The significance of the Fathers lies in their earnest and soul-wrenching quest to seek God and to share Him with the world.  Fundamentalist readings of both the Fathers and the Bible never lead to God—they only lead to idolatry.

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The Orthodox Christian Studies Center of Fordham University fosters intellectual inquiry by supporting scholarship and teaching that is critical to the ecclesial community, public discourse, and the promotion of Christian unity.

The Center serves as a locus of curricular, research, and outreach activities related to the interdisciplinary study of Orthodox Christian tradition.

George E. Demacopoulos is Professor of Historical Theology, Director and Co-Founder, Orthodox Christian Studies Center of Fordham University.

The post Professor of Orthodox History Warns Against Dangers of Fundamentalism appeared first on The National Herald.

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – The St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine will host its 33rd annual St. Photios National Shrine Day Pilgrimage Feb. 6–8. The feast day of St. Photios is celebrated on February 6.

During the three-day celebration, the St. Photios Foundation will also hold its annual meeting from 10 AM to 2 PM Feb. 7 at the Casa Monica Hotel.

On February  6 there will be a unveiling and blessing of two new exhibits, a special exhibit that will be on display for one year is titled: “Pioneering Priests — Establishing the Greek Orthodox Faith in America,” which was made possible through a grant from Leadership 100 Endowment.

“The permanent exhibit of byzantine icons has increased through the generosity of Alfred A. Funai, Jr. Over a two-year period, Funai has gifted 11 sacred icons from the 17th and 18th century to the permanent collection he gifted the shrine two decades ago. The donation will be made in loving memory of his parents. Funai will be presented with the St. Photios medal,” the St. Augustine Record reported.

At 2 PM on February 7, trustees and their families will travel to the AHEPA Odyssey Memorial in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. “where a Trisagion will be chanted in memory and honor of the nearly 500 Orthodox Christians who arrived in the New World in 1768. Most perished before gaining refugee status in St. Augustine in 1777. From New Smyrna, participants will then travel 15 miles north to the parish of St. Demetrios in Daytona Beach to celebrate Great Vespers and enjoy parish hospitality in the parish banquet hall,” according to the Record.

The Feast Day Banquet will be held at 1 PM on February 8 at the Casa Monica Hotel. News4Jax anchor, Staci Spanos Gibson will emcee the event and Archon Nick Furris will offer the keynote address, and Margo Kelley, Orthodox Christian Mission Center Assistant Missionary Coordinator, will be honored.

At 8:30 PM February a vespral Hierarchical Divine Liturgy will be celebrated bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos, in the St. Photios Chapel. Seminarians and students of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology will chant the services.

For information, call 829-8205 or email info@stphotios.com.

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MILWAUKEE – On February 5 Milwaukee Circuit Judge M. Joseph Donald rejected the argument made by Fr. James  Dokos’ lawyers that the felony theft case against him should be dropped because it was a violation of religious freedom.

Fr. Dokos, 62, of Chicago, allegedly spent more than $100,000 in trust fund money that authorities contend was to benefit Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Milwaukee.  Dokos served there as pastor for two decades.

“Determining whether or not the defendant embezzled money does not require this court to appoint religious ministers, decide tenets of faith (or) interpret church doctrine…Neither (Dokos) nor the hierarchical church is more capable of determining whether or not he unlawfully retained money to which he was not entitled,” the judge said.

Fr. Dokos did submitted a doctor’s note that said he recently underwent a cardiac procedure and the judge excused raccording to court records. He has been on unpaid his current assignment as pastor of the Sts. Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church in Glenview, IL.

After the hearing, Patrick Knight, Fr. Dokos’s lawyer, said “We will consider our options and consult with our client and make some decisions…Obviously we took a contrary position (from the judge’s ruling).”

Prosecutor David Feiss declined to comment.

“Dokos was in charge of a trust fund established by a couple who had attended Annunciation and who left the bulk of the seven-figure fund to the church. More than $1.1 million of that trust fund was paid to the Milwaukee church, but Dokos spent other money from the fund on personal expenses, such as jewelry for his wife, the criminal complaint alleges…The priest allegedly spent thousands on shopping trips and upscale dinners, and gave monetary gifts to family members and other church leaders, court records show,” the Chicago Tribune reported.

Annunciation’s current pastor, Fr. Angelo Artemas, who formerly served at the Glenview parish, told the Tribune that he disagreed with the argument presented by Dokos.

“I was taught in seventh grade … that the First Amendment guarantees Americans the freedom to worship God as they wish to worship…I did not learn that the First Amendment gave people the right to manipulate our seniors and violate their legal trusts,” Fr. Artemas said.

George Karcazes, a retired lawyer and member at Glenview’s Sts. Peter and Paul, told the Tribune the argument of Dokos’ attorneys “simply absurd.”

“We still live in a country where the laws have to be obeyed whether you are in a church or not…By that reasoning clergy cannot be prosecuted for molesting children or failing to pay income taxes … because such things should be left to their hierarchs,” he said.

The post Judge Won’t Drop Fr. Dokos Case appeared first on The National Herald.

CHICAGO – Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, chancellor of the Metropopolis of Chicagom was warned by a prosecutor against “potential efforts to intimidate witnesses” in Fr. James Dokos case regarding allegatio0ns that he stole more than $100,000 from the Church of the Annunciation of Milwaukee.

“The warning came after another priest in Milwaukee told authorities that Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, the No. 2-ranking official in the Greek Orthodox faith in the Midwest, threatened in emails to remove him from his post if the church did not withdraw a theft complaint against the priest’s predecessor,” the Chicago Tribune reported.

“We have received some extremely distressing news regarding potential efforts to intimidate witnesses…I believe that Bishop Demetrios needs to retain independent representation as quickly as practical,” a prosecutor wrote to an attorney for Metropolis last April.

The emails were reportedly exchanged between Demetios and Fr. Angelo Artemas of Annunciation Church in Milwaukee.

“The emails indicated the bishop sought a meeting with Annunciation leaders to talk about the case against Dokos, who has since been charged with improperly spending money from a trust fund intended to benefit the church. Members of Annunciation had taken their concerns about the trust fund to Milwaukee authorities after officials with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago determined in an internal investigation that Dokos did nothing wrong,” according to the Tribune.

Last March, when Fr. Artemas wrote to Demetrios to say Annunciation’s parish council had declined to meet with him. “Due to your letter last August indicating Fr Dokos did nothing wrong, they are unanimous not to meet,” Demetrios then replied: “If that is the case, then in (sic) will ask His Eminence to release you from there ASAP and offer your services to the Archdiocese for placement. I’m sorry.”

Milwaukee prosecutors said the emails led Artemas, the Tribune reported,  “to believe that he was going to be involuntarily removed from his parish unless he compelled Annunciation to withdraw the complaint.”

“The Metropolis never intimidated, threatened or harassed anyone… The assignment of Parish Priests (is) an internal matter of the Church,” a  statement from the Metropolis said said. ”

“Demetrios has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing, and Artemas remains pastor at Annunciation. But the emails provided another indication of the tensions within the metropolis after Annunciation members took their concerns about Dokos to authorities,” the Tribune reported, and Iakovos wrote that he was “astonished” by the Glenview parish council’s “inappropriate suspicion and deceitful maneuverings rather than the support of its own pastor in time of need.”

The post Chicago’s Bishop Demetrios Accused of Intimidating Witness appeared first on The National Herald.

Peni (Despina) Poulos 91, of Windham and Yonkers, NY, passed away on Saturday, February 7, surrounded by her beloved family.  Despina was born in Yonkers to Anthony and Sophia Xanthopoulos. She and her late husband, Steven, lived in Jersey City for over 60 years where they raised their family before moving to New York where she later resided for over 30 years.

Despina was a member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Jersey City, Assumption Church in Windham NY, The Ladies Philoptochos Society and the Pontian Society of Jersey City. She and her late husband were the owners for over 32 years of “Poulos Deli and Liquor Store“  in  Jersey City.  She was an avid golfer and a very creative and talented individual who especially enjoyed painting.  A devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Despina was most proud of her family which was the center of her world.  She was a lady of wisdom, of incredible strength and will be fondly remembered as a dynamic person who touched the hearts of those who had the good fortune to know her.

Peni will be deeply missed by her loving children: H. Steven Poulos, Bishop Andonios, Eva Denise Cecchini and husband Perry; her 5 grandchildren: Steven Poulos and wife Ana, Dr. Melissa Despina Poulos, Elenie Grasos and husband Vasili, Gianna Cecchini, Alexa Cecchini and her fiancé Anthony Ciccone; as well as by her 4 great-grandchildren; Zoe Charles, Mario, Stefanos and Patrikia Grasos.

Her funeral will take place on Wednesday (Feb 11) at 11:00 AM at St. Demetrios Church, 524 Summit Avenue, Jersey City (NJ). Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery, Lyndhurst.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday (Feb 10) from 4 to 8 PM in the Calhoun-Mania Funeral Home, 19 Lincoln Avenue, Rutherford (NJ).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Michael’s Home, 3 Lehman Terrace, Yonkers, NY 10705.

The post Community Mourns Peni Poulos, Mother of Bishop Andonios of Phasiane appeared first on The National Herald.

FLUSHING, NY – The Nisyrian Society of New York, on the occasion of the community’s annual celebration of Greek letters and in support of its schools, presented a concert of the work of the great Modern Greek poets century that has been set to music by renowned Hellenic composers

The moving event that packed the Sarantakos Hall of the Michelis Cultural Center of the Church of St. Nicholas in Flushing  featured Grigoris Maninakis and the Mikrokosmos Ensemble, who were joined by singer Makaria Psiliteli-Kazakos and the choirs of the schools of St. Demetrios Cathedral of Astoria and St. Nicholas.

Athena Krommydas, the principal of St. Nicholas’ William Spiropoulos day school, welcomed and thanked guests and offered brief but inspiring introductions of the poets, who included including, Riga Feraios, Kostas Varnalis, Odysseus Elitis, George Seferis, Giannis Ritsos , Nikos Gatsos and Vitsentzos Cornaros. Stelios Taketzis, best known as a Cosmos-FM producer and presenter, recited excerpts from their writing

The evening’s theme was set by Krommydas, who intoned “Eν αρχη ην ο Λογος – In the beginning was the Word” from the prologue of the Gospel of John.  The phrase symbolized the main elements of the program: celebrating and endeavoring to strengthen Greek education in America, especially the night’s two highlighted schools, and the enjoyment of the “words” of the great poets of the Hellenes.

Maninakis’ fans look forward to his concerts’ dramatic openings.

On Sunday the music was preceded with the recital of the opening of Nikos Gatsos’ “Toutos o topos – This Place,” with an instrumental drone in the background and the stage bathed in soft light slowly shifting from violet to gold to green to blue to fiery orange.

Taketzis’ words melted into Maninakis’ lyrics, which were set to music by Stavros Xarhakos.

“The poem expresses the beauty of Greece not descriptively, but poetically,” Maninakis told TNH.

Maninakis and Psiliteli Kazakos shared the vocals with the school choirs.

Sarantakos hall has excellent acoustics and the guests enjoyed the music and the commentary. They were often invited to clap and sing along and the poignant rendering of Thn Romiosini min tin kles – Don’t cry for Byzantium,” which closed the performance, brought tears to some eyes, and its martial beat prompting many to stand and clap.

Krommydas thanked the Nisyrian Society, its president, Yiannis Constantinides, its board and its members and expressed her appreciation to the sponsors, including Alma Bank, Maninkis and Mikrokosmos. And she thanked the students who participated, reading aloud all their names.

Maninakis named the musicians, Spiros Arnakis, Kostas Psaras, Panagiotis Andreou, Glafkos Kontemeniotis and Megan Gould.

Constantinides spoke on behalf of the Society and spoke in praise of the Greek language. “If we remove all the Greek words from the dictionaries of other nations,” they would be impoverished. “Greek is the foundation of fields like rhetoric, philosophy and science, and our language can only be cultivated in our schools…that is why we are obligated to support them…if the language dies, our heritage dies. One the purpose of this even is to send a warning,” he said.

The Society, along with other groups they reached out to, made donations to both schools.

A separate group of students from its Greek Saturday afternoon school – which has operated free of charge since the 1970s – sang the national anthems.

Very Rev. Nektarios Papazafiropoulos, Dean of St. Demetrios Cathedral, represented the clergy of both communities. He told TNH he considers the event a pioneering effort on the part of the Nisyrians that he hopes inspires other organizations to work to strengthen our schools, “which is something we must take more seriously, not because these are our institutions, but because it is about our identity,” he said.

Thomas Kazakos told TNH “It was an excellent concert. It was fantastic to hear the children’s choirs and Maninakis and Makaria always remind us of Greece. It was very touching, reminding us of our youth.

George Kitsios told TNH “I thank and congratulate Grigoris Maninakis and Athena Krommydas and  Evangelos Haziroglou and Areti Giovannou,” the music teachers at St. Demetrios and St. Nicholas respectively.

Asked how he felt about it, Nick Andriotes told TNH “It’s not about what I felt, but what the audience experienced. I continue to be touched after all these years, but what is most moving is that there are people who are working to continue the endeavor and understand that the maintenance of our language requires a lot of work. It is unacceptable that a language that endured for 4000 years should disappear in a country like America where there is freedom and all the prerequisites for its continuation.”

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MILWAUKEE, Wisc. – Rev. Angelo Artemas, presiding priest at the Annunciation parish in Milwaukee, WI broke his silence and in exclusive interview to TNH spoke freely and openly about the situation involving his predecessor, Fr. James Dokos, who has been charged with stealing money from a trust of a former parishioner of his.

Dokos, who is charged with giving money to Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago, was transferred after 22 years of ministry at the Annunciation in Milwaukee to the Saints Peter and Paul in Glenview, IL and Fr. Artemas was transferred against his will from there to the Annunciation church.

Bishop Demetrios through emails was pressuring and even “threatened” Fr. Artemas to make the issue of Fr. Dokos go away. Artemas forwarded Demetrios’ emails to the District Attorney of Milwaukee. Artemas believes that Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago should “retire” and Bishop Demetrios should “resign.” The entire interview follows:

TNH: What can you tell us about your predecessor, Fr. Dokos? How is the climate in your parish today?

AA: The climate is one of exhaustion here at the parish and they want to move on and rebuild both their finances and their parish. The last several years of his ministry here were basically shrouded in negativity. There was innuendo about missing money and those types of things, and so the parish was not fully aware.

TNH: It seems it wasn’t only innuendo, it proved to be a reality.

AA: Yes.

TNH: Did Bishop Demetrios somehow attempt to interfere with the investigation by sending you emails directing you to stop the whole process?

AA: Yes, he did. At one point he indicated that I would be released from this Metropolis. At times in the past he had mentioned verbally that he would remove council members.

TNH: Did you ask him why he wanted to transfer you?

AA: For failing to be obedient to the Metropolis in not making the issue go away and having the District Attorney drop the charges.

TNH: Did you request, two years ago, to be transferred from St. Peter and Paul Parish in Glenview, IL to the Annunciation parish in Milwaukee?

AA: No. There was a point that even His Grace Bishop Demetrios made clear to the parish council of Saints Peter and Paul and also to the Annunciation that I was not requesting reassignment, but I was asked to take the assignment.

TNH: Who established the reassignment, Metropolitan Iakovos or Bishop Demetrios?

AA: Bishop Demetrios.

TNH: Does Metropolitan Iakovos know what is going on?

AA: It is hard to say what is coming directly from His Grace Bishop Demetrios and what is coming with the knowledge of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos, it is really hard to say. I don’t know.

TNH: Do you think it is time for Metropolitan Iakovos to retire and Bishop Demetrios to resign completely because of this scandal?

AA: Yes, I do.

TNH: What made you send the correspondence between you and Bishop Demetrios to the Attorney General?

AA: I was facing not having employment after a week or two. The emails were clear that I would be released before Holy Week and this was March of last year about the fourth week of Lent.

TNH: Do you think that Bishop Demetrios wanted to cover up the whole thing?

AA: I do not know what he wanted to cover up; I do not know what the urgency was. In May 2013 we disclosed everything first to Bishop Demetrios in the Metropolis, and it was only after he found no wrongdoing and told us to put the matter at rest that we went to the District Attorney.

TNH: Did you ever request to be transferred from the Annunciation parish to the Archdiocesan District of New York?

AA: No, I have not asked for any transfer outside of this Metropolis.

TNH: How do you explain the fact that Fr. Dokos had given monies to Bishop Demetrios?

AA: I can’t explain the situation. I do know that my predecessor is very close to Metropolitan Iakovos. I know he is close with Bishop Demetrios. Beyond that, I can’t explain anything that is more personal than that.

TNH: Do you ever talk to Fr. Dokos?

AA: I haven’t for two years now.

TNH: What are the parishioners saying now?

AA: A lot of the parishioners were not comfortable with the finances the last six to ten years. There were a lot of questions and a lot of rumors and at this point no one is really surprised by anything, and we are eager to move on. The District Attorney said that we can go to Civil Court but our parish council and I have decided not to do that. We are not asking for anything, we are trying to put this behind us and try to move on. [Note: a criminal case is brought by the District Attorney on behalf of the people, and a guilty verdict usually results in punishment, such as jail, whereas a civil lawsuit, a defendant found liable gives compensation – usually money – to the plaintiff/victim.]

TNH: Did you know Margaret Franczak, who established the trust?

AA: No I never met her. It was a trust established by her husband when he was still alive. He passed on first. They had a Goddaughter who was the original trustee but she was removed during the last few months of her life.

TNH: Why she was removed?

AA: We don’t know.

TNH: Did this whole issue have any influence on your ministry?

AA: It certainly has. It has actually helped me prioritize my ministry and it has made me realize that somewhere along the way whether in our Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology or elsewhere, clergy have to get better training in ethnics, primarily when it comes to inheritances and parishioner’s bequests and trusts and wills.

TNH: Are you implying that priests should not get involved in these things?

AA: Personally if someone asks to be a trustee even in my own family I would direct him to someone else, I will stay out of it entirely.

TNH: How many families do you have in the parish?

AA: We are about 450 families currently, but fifteen years ago we were about 800 families.

TNH: What happened?

AA: There was a negative environment here for quite a few years and we kept losing families.

TNH: Are you not afraid for speaking to me this freely?

AA: Yes, I am, but it comes a point that we really have to speak on principle, otherwise what good are we? This is the way I was raised and I think that is how at the end of the day this parish will regroup, and that is the only way to move forward in a positive direction.

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The National Herald congratulates the Hawks of the William Spyropoulos School of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Flushing for winning the 2014-15 Greek Orthodox Athletic League (GOAL) basketball championship!

Paul Kapassakis is the Hawks’ coach, and Demetri Gatanas was named team captain and MVP.

Kapassakis has coached at St. Nicholas for approximately 10 years and has been a part of more than a dozen championship teams in various leagues, including Junior Orthodox Youth (JOY), Greek Orthodox Youth of America (GOYA) and GOAL. He is currently the Youth Director at St. Nicholas and oversees all of the sports activities for the community. Kapassakis told TNH that he enjoys working with the youth in his community and sees it as his obligation, given that others donated their efforts when he was a young person active in basketball, football and baseball.

An investment banker who manages an international equities trading group, and a graduate of the Bronx High School of Science and Fordham Law School, Poulos has been married for almost 20 years and is the father of two teenage children. He is also interested in faith, history, traveling, martial arts training, and spending time with his family and friends.

In leading the Hawks to the championship, Gatanas exhibited excellence in every facet of the game. His skill was eclipsed only by his sportsmanship and teamwork, said his coach. “He played hard every minute he was on the court and never forgot to include his teammates. Demetri’s athletic success this year was no fluke. Demetri was also named MVP of the Diocesan Athletic Council (DAC) basketball league in 2014. Moreover, Demetri is an avid martial artist and has learned not only to train his body but also to respect his opponent.”

Gatanas is “a credit to the St. Nicholas community and we look forward to hearing of his future successes.”

Congratulations Demetri, Coach Kapassakis, and the rest of the team!

The post Congratulations Willam Spryropoulos Hawks – 2014-15 GOAL Champions! appeared first on The National Herald.

HEMPSTEAD, NY – More than 200 scouts, leaders, dignitaries, and friends were present for the celebration of the 55th anniversary of Troop 568 at the Cathedral of St. Paul in Hempstead, NY.

The recognition began with the formal observance of the annual National Boy Scout Sunday ceremony held within the Cathedral. Awards were presented to the various Scouts for their individual achievements. This was followed by a formal luncheon given at the Rev. Nicholas J. Magoulias Cathedral Center.

The 55th Anniversary celebration was given to recognize the accomplishments of this remarkable troop, which has a thriving Cub Scout and Boy Scout unit. It was chartered in 1960 and since its inception, 64 boys became Eagle Scouts.

Many of these Eagle Scouts were present to participate in this program, which made it a great reunion since many came from a great distance to attend.

Guests remarked that the 55^th Anniversary event was an excellent tribute to the dedication of the past and present leaders, parents and clergy for working together to include scouting as a viable part of the parish youth program.

Some of the speakers included several of the past Scoutmasters, including Peter Xanthos, whose father-in-law was one of the founders of the troop in l960.

Terry Perperis, Chris Comack, who spoke in memory of his father, and the current scoutmaster, Peter Paris.

Each anecdote contained fascinating insights into the program that continues to stimulate and enhance each boy and how scouting impacts each boy as he matures into manhood.

One of the guest speakers was George Boulukos, the head of the Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting, who is a lifelong scout, and a recipient of the highest BSA award, the Silver Buffalo. He reiterated the importance of having scouting be an integral part of the youth programs nationally for our parishes. He thanked all the individuals, past and present, for their ongoing support of the Scouting program. “A program like this one cannot function without their dedication.”

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A webinar titled “DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Identifying and responding to intimate partner abuse” will be presented on  Tuesday, February 24 at 1:30PM EST. The webinar will feature Paulette Geanacopoulos, LMSW, National Philoptochos’ Director of Social Work, and Rev. Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert, Proistamenos of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, NYC.

This webinar will provide an overview of domestic violence including its prevalence, forms of abuse, its basis in power and control, its impact on children, cultural barriers to accessing mainstream services, why victims remain in abusive relationships, concepts of prayer and forgiveness, and the spiritual aloneness a victim feels who believes God has abandoned her. The webinar will end with suggested actions we can take to ensure we respond in helpful, not hurtful ways, including what to say to someone who is or we think is being abused, helping a victim increase her safety and that of her children, and how to find local domestic violence programs that can help a victim decide what she is willing and able to do.

To register visit: http://gowoa.me/i/K7gJ

Sponsored by the Center for Family Care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

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