STATEN ISLAND, NY – With the movie ‘Mamma Mia’ as the theme and with the guests dressed appropriately, the Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas of Staten Island community’s Philoptochos Society held their annual dinner on May 14 at the packed Li Greci’s catering hall.
Philoptochos President Dee Sidiropoulos, in her welcoming speech, thanked the guests for their presence and support, as well as all the sponsors and volunteers.
She said: “It is with great joy that we are together again this year at the annual dinner with all the proceeds of the evening being donated to the poor and needy.”
“The Philoptochos Society has fulfilled its role as the main charitable organization in our Greek Orthodox church for over 90 years,” Sidiropoulos continued. “Today and for many years in the past, our beautiful church has amazing, hardworking, dedicated and dynamic women who support and provide assistance to the community.”
“Today, the church reminds us that we are here to do whatever it takes to help those in need,” she said. “Faith has been our guide and will continue to be in the future.”
“The Staten Island Society is made up of capable and worthy ladies, who know well what it means to help our fellow human beings,” Sidiropoulos noted. “We have embraced the true meaning of charity, we uphold the principles and values, and we respectfully carry out the efforts wherever needed. Throughout the year we raised $55,000 which was donated to vulnerable groups and charities.”
“I thank all members for their selfless contribution, time, and dedication,” she said. “A big thank you also to the Philoptochos Societies of the communities of Brooklyn, Long Island, and New Jersey who are here today and support our work. Wishing everyone a good and restful summer.”
The Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas of Staten Island community’s Philoptochos Society annual dinner was held on May 14 at the packed Li Greci’s catering hall. Photo: TNH/Michael Kakias
The community’s presiding priest Fr. Vasileios Apostolidis praised the work carried out by the Philoptochos Society, the Christian principles, and the love they show towards their fellow man.
“Charity is an integral part of the pastoral activity of the Orthodox Church,” he said. “We are very proud that our community has such an active Philoptochos Society. Every day its members express Christ’s commandment to serve our fellow human beings. By feeding the hungry, supporting and comforting the suffering, you become light and hope for all people.”
“Your offering goes beyond the boundaries of our parish and becomes a living testimony of Christ’s love in the world,” Fr. Apostolidis noted. “On behalf of everyone, I express my deep gratitude and fatherly thanks for your tireless offering and sacrificial ministry.
I wish health, joy and family happiness to everyone.”
Parish Council President Spyros Lazaretos congratulated the Philoptochos for their great social work over the years and described the evening as an event of compassion, generosity, and love.