Orthodox Observer

04/01/2025

On Sunday, March 9, 2025, at six o’clock in the evening the sun began to set in lower Manhattan and the bright light of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine began to glow. City workers bustle around the area, heading home after a long day, but among the bustling pedestrians are volunteers heading to St. Nicholas for its monthly food distribution run for the homeless.

The food distribution program officially started in October 2024 and St. Nicholas has hosted it every month since. Through the organization Midnight Run, the St. Nicholas team receives food items and are advised on where to distribute the food they prepare. St. Nicholas accepts clothing and other essential care items from parishioners and anyone else who would like to donate, and Liberty Bagels generously provides cold cuts and cheese for the sandwiches. Midnight Run coordinates over 1,000 distributions per year, in which volunteers from churches, synagogues, schools and other civic groups distribute food, clothing, blankets and personal care items to those experiencing homelessness in New York City.

About twenty volunteers, mostly young adults, gathered for this month’s food preparation and distribution. Parish priest, Rev. Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne, Fr. Andreas Vithoulkas led the group in prayer, thanking God for the opportunity to gather and uplift our neighbors who need assistance.

Parish Council member Christina Halatsis guided the volunteers in preparing the food for distribution as well as clothing and hygiene products. The volunteers were so efficient they went through all of the bread that they had for use, purchased more, and went through it again within an hour. Many people were participating for the first time, but the sense of community and fellowship in faith made it seem as though everyone in the room were old friends.

Married couple Maxim Calixte and Siying Qu are catechumens attending St. Nicholas prayerfully awaiting their christening on Lazarus Saturday of this year. Siying’s mother married a Greek man from Sifnos, which prompted many trips to the beautiful island. While on the island, the couple attended an Orthodox service and made the decision to convert to Orthodoxy. Maxim discovered St. Nicholas when walking by the Ground Zero memorials and was captivated by the structure of the church, but especially impacted by the leadership and culture of the St. Nicholas parish. “We love Fr. Andreas and Fr. Samuel who challenge us spiritually and intellectually,” Maxim stated.

Mother and daughter Sabrina and Althea Michals who attend St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Ocean, New Jersey were among the first time participants. They swiftly packed sandwiches as if on an assembly line. A young toddler with his father wandered the room and cheerily helped put sandwiches in bags for distribution. Two young women from New York University took sandwiches for distribution to neighbors they knew would need them around Washington Square Park.

Those who remained for the distribution headed to areas near Herald Square as well as the Antonio Olivieri Center, a drop-in center with a soup kitchen, showers, and other services.

Paula Pieper, originally from South Carolina, but who now attends St. John the Baptist Church in Gramercy, stated the distribution is very special and dispels myths often perpetuated about those experiencing homelessness. The people the volunteers encounter are friendly and excited to chat. This is her second time participating in the distribution.

Paula’s biggest takeaway from these experiences are the connections she builds with the other participants. “It is a really fun way to bond with people and have something in common that is unspoken–to help a greater good,” Paula stated.

The monthly food distribution at St. Nicholas brings together people from all walks of life to follow Christ’s example and what he demands of us; “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Matthew 25:35-36.

The next food and supply distribution will take place this Sunday, April 6, 2025 at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero. Discover future events by subscribing to the St. Nicholas newsletter here.

Photos: Orthodox Observer.

03/31/2025

03/30/2025

03/30/2025

Last Friday, organizers gathered at the Stathakeion Cultural Center for a final meeting ahead of today’s NYC Greek Independence Day Parade down Fifth Avenue. #1821
📷 Orthodox Observer / Dimitris Panagos

03/29/2025

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, His Eminence Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Patras visited His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America at the Archdiocese headquarters in New York, New York.

Archbishop Elpidophoros announced that, starting this year, a representative of the Church of Greece will be included among the honorees of the Greek Independence Day Parade, emphasizing the Church's pivotal role in the struggle for Independence. Metropolitan Chrysostomos was honored as the first of such representatives.

Photo: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos.

03/29/2025

On March 28, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America celebrated the fourth Salutations to the Theotokos at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, in Jackson Heights, New York. Concelebrating with His Eminence was the presiding priest, Protopresbyter Father Apostolos Chasapis. His Eminence reflected on the Theotokos as defender of the Church, which is the body of her son, Jesus Christ, remarking that each one of us “are her children, through faith in Her Son. We have been adopted by grace through Baptism, and now She has as many children as there are sands in the sea, and stars in the heavens.”

Photos: Orthodox Observer/ Dimitrios Panagos.

03/28/2025

On Friday, April 18, 2025, Communion and Liberation, with the support of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, invites you to participate in the annual Way of the Cross over the Brooklyn Bridge.

This year, in a profound expression of unity, Catholic and Orthodox Christians will walk together, as both Churches celebrate Easter/Pascha on the same Sunday.

The procession will begin at St. James Cathedral in Brooklyn at 10:00 a.m., where His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and His Excellency, Bishop Robert Brennan, will offer reflections to mark the start of this journey. It will then move across the Brooklyn Bridge, stopping for stations and meditations at midway on the Bridge, City Hall Park, and concluding at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox National Shrine at the World Trade Center.

We encourage all faithful to join us in this powerful public witness of Christ’s Passion and Resurrection. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

03/27/2025

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America welcomed Nektarios Farmakis, Governor of the Western Greece Region; Christos Paisios, President of the Regional Council of the Western Greece Region; and Athanasios Mavromatis, Deputy Governor of the Aetolia-Acarnania Region, at the Archdiocese headquarters on March 27, 2025. They traveled to New York for the Greek Independence Day celebrations, culminating in the Greek Independence Day Parade on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

Mr. Farmakis invited His Eminence to visit Missolonghi next year on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the Exodus of Missolonghi.

Photos: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos.

03/27/2025

Today, March 27, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America welcomed Nikos Androulakis, leader of Greece’s main opposition party PASOK, to the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdioceses of America.

Upon his arrival, Mr. Androulakis stated: “It is a great joy and honor for me to meet with you today. I want to congratulate you on your work, which is rooted in humanity and solidarity within your Archdiocese. Additionally, I commend you for raising the issue of a just resolution to the Cyprus problem with the new President of the United States. This is a critical issue for our nation, and we must all strive for a sustainable solution that respects the resolutions of the United Nations. We will always stand by your side, as Orthodoxy has always been and will continue to be the pillar of unity for the Greek community abroad. The heart of Hellenism beats here, and I am delighted that we will spend these days together.”

In response, Archbishop Elpidophoros remarked, "I am deeply moved to welcome the president of a historic party that has played a significant role in our homeland’s political landscape. I am confident that you are a worthy successor to your predecessors, and you personally will play an essential role as President of this Movement in advancing our national issues. Please know that the Greek diaspora, Orthodoxy, the Archdiocese—we all stand with the Greek people and our homeland. A message that resonates with all of us here in America and throughout the diaspora is unity, which is essential for the successful promotion of our national issues.”

Nikos Androulakis is an honored guest in the upcoming Greek Independence Day parade in New York City on March 30.

Video: Orthodox Observer/Alkis Tzortzoglou.

03/27/2025

Metropolis of Boston Scholarship Opportunities for young Greek Orthodox adults.

03/26/2025

As part of Women’s History Month in March, the Ecumenical Department in collaboration with the Communications Department seeks to feature women affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. This initiative aims to celebrate the rich legacy of women who have shaped the Orthodox Christian tradition, as well as their contributions to the academic, cultural, and social fabric of the Orthodox community. We hope to highlight their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America recommended that we focus on the women within the Hellenic College Holy Cross (HCHC) community this year. For our final feature for this year's Women’s History Month, we would like to honor Chrysoula Kourkounti, Executive Director of the Maliotis Cultural Center at HCHC.

What is your role and your achievements?

For the past five years, I have served as Executive Director of the Maliotis Cultural Center at Hellenic College Holy Cross, advancing Greek language and culture. The Center hosts school events like graduations and convocations and provides classrooms, a 350-seat auditorium, and meeting spaces. It also produces and sponsors Greek cultural events, including theatre, dance, films, lectures, and art exhibits. My responsibilities include overseeing operations, fundraising, and cultivating partnerships in the U.S. and Greece. Key achievements include reviving the facility, enhancing its mission, and establishing connections with universities and producers to present high-quality events that benefit both the school and community.

What have you learned during your time at Maliotis Cultural Center and how did you apply it towards your success?

During my time at the Maliotis Cultural Center, I transitioned from an art therapist to managing a prominent cultural facility, thanks to the mentorship of George Cantonis, who recognized my passion for Hellenism and art. Together, we developed a multi-year strategy, built a management team, and engaged both the school and the wider Hellenic community. I learned essential skills in management, strategic planning, organization, and fundraising, which I continually refine. This experience allowed me to successfully balance the Center's internal needs with external collaborations, fostering its mission of advancing Greek language, culture, and the arts.

How have you inspired the younger generation of women?

I strive to inspire younger women by offering opportunities for growth and modeling leadership. At MCC, we encourage young women to work with us, providing them with experience and insights into focus, discipline, and vision for success. We've also developed young women on our team into effective leaders, empowering them to take on greater responsibilities. Modeling respect, patience, and discipline is central to our approach. As a presvytera, I encourage other presvyteres to love the Church, support their husbands, and embrace their individuality. Additionally, we host women-focused events, such as Mommy and Me, seminarian wives meetings, and seminars fostering community and shared experiences.

How have other women inspired you in your journey?

Two extraordinary women have deeply influenced my journey at MCC. First, Presvytera Calypso Karahalios embodied quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering support, serving as a lasting source of personal and professional inspiration. May her memory be eternal. Second, Paulette Poulos, Executive Director of Leadership 100, exemplifies poise, vision, discipline, and faith. Her remarkable leadership and dedication inspire me to lead with purpose and integrity, setting a standard to which I continually aspire.

Which are the effects of your religion in your progress?

My faith has been central to my progress, as I firmly believe that God has a plan for each of us. Even in challenging or uncertain times, I’ve trusted that there is a purpose, even if not immediately clear. Prayer has been a source of strength, and I draw inspiration from saints like St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalivia, to whom I often pray for guidance and understanding. My work is deeply inspired by the ministry of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, whose leadership reflects the spiritual legacy of our Church in America and motivates me to serve with faith and purpose.

If you would like, please send us a phrase or quote that depicts your viewpoint on Maliotis Cultural Center.

A phrase that captures my viewpoint on MCC's mission is Isocrates’ words: "Greeks are those who share in our culture" (Ἕλληνες εἰσὶν οἱ τῆς ἡμετέρας παιδείας μετέχοντες).

Ι believe that Hellenic culture and its language are vital not only for the preservation of our faith in this country but also as a guiding foundation for all Americans during these challenging times. From the principles of family to philosophy, democracy, and analytical thinking, Greek culture offers timeless solutions and insights. The Maliotis Cultural Center's mission is to expand opportunities to learn about this rich heritage.

Photo: Maliotis Cultural Center of Hellenic College Holy Cross.

03/25/2025

Ιερός Ναός Ευαγγελισμού της ΘεοτόκουThe Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom8:30 AM Orthros10:00 AM Divine LiturgyRev. Father Sotirios Michalatos, Parish ...

03/25/2025

03/24/2025

03/24/2025

As part of Women’s History Month in March, the Ecumenical Department in collaboration with the Communications Department seeks to feature women affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. This initiative aims to celebrate the rich legacy of women who have shaped the Orthodox Christian tradition, as well as their contributions to the academic, cultural, and social fabric of the Orthodox community. We hope to highlight their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America recommended that we focus on the women within the Hellenic College Holy Cross (HCHC) community this year. For the fourth week of Women’s History Month, we would like to honor Thea Johnson, a current MDiv student at HCHC.

Thea Johnson
Master of Divinity (MDiv) candidate, second year
In what ways has HCHC helped you pursue your aspirations?

HCHC has offered (and continues to provide) fertile ground for discernment, as I seek to attentively listen to where our Lord is leading me in service to Him and His Church. I feel a great deal of uncertainty in terms of the form this service will take; however, it has become clear that this school is exactly where I need to be at this point in my life, and I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to learn here, from the incredible faculty and the courses they offer, from my fellow students, from the liturgical services, and all the other innumerable ways through which our God is constantly teaching.

How has your experience at HCHC reinforced your religion?

It has become clear that while much is learned through our academic courses, so much of the learning that takes place here at HCHC is through the silent work that our Lord does within the heart as we have the opportunity to be immersed in an atmosphere centered around the liturgical life of the Church, in which we gather together in prayer in the Chapel each day. Amidst such an environment, the reality of God’s presence in all we do, in each person we encounter, has taken on new life within my own heart.

If you would like, please send us a phrase or quote that depicts your viewpoint on HCHC.

HCHC is a unique place of formation and beautiful struggle, a training ground, a community that often feels more like a big family or a small village than a college campus – a place where, journeying together, we inevitably become painfully aware of our own brokenness, all that we don’t know, while also constantly being reminded that we are always being guided by our exceedingly merciful God, whose love knows no bounds.

03/24/2025

Maliotis Cultural Center and the National Hellenic Society invite you to a film screening of "Cliffs of Freedom" on March 28 at 7 pm in honor of Greek Independence Day! Tickets are $10 General Admission and $5 Students- available on Eventbrite or at the door.

Marianne Metropoulos' screenplay and beautiful story set within the prism of the Greek War of Independence in 1821 is now a star-studded feature film available to rent or buy on multiple streaming platforms. The film is produced by NHS members, the Metropoulos family. NHS urges our members, their respective families and friends to see & share the film especially with the next generation. The Greek spirit and quest for freedom is captured within the context of the impressive feature film that will teach and inspire all.

The story is simple: a young Greek village girl falls in love with a handsome Turkish officer. The couple is besieged by conflicts posed within the context of the Greek War of Independence following four centuries of Ottoman Rule. We take for granted the herculean efforts and sacrifices of our forebears. Share the story and film especially with the next generation. Their story is our story--one that we celebrate every March 25th that resonates with all free people.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cliffs-of-freedom-film-screening-at-mcc-tickets-1256725733499?aff=oddtdtcreator

03/24/2025