The Philoptochos Women’s Society of St. Athanasios is an organization whose primary purpose is aimed toward
philanthropic endeavors and programs. All men and women in our parish may become members of this society,
which provides for the disadvantaged and assists the church in many ways.
Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month.
Philoptochos News
philoptochos@stathanasiosnj.org
On behalf of St. Irene’s Philoptochos Society, we wish you and your families a very blessed, happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. We have kicked off our yearly membership drive, and urge all Orthodox Christian Women in the community to join our organization.
Philoptochos is the backbone of Orthodox Philanthropy, the channel through which we can help our fellow men. Philoptochos is one of the most viable organizations in the Archdiocese, not only in our parish. It is one of the largest women’s Christian associations in the United States. Philoptochos offers so many opportunities to help in so many ways. Among the ways we offer assistance at the local, Metropolis and National levels are the following: Crisis intervention, disaster relief, parishioners’ financial needs, OCMC, IOCC, HC/HC, St. Basil Academy, Cancer Fund, UNICEF, Retired Clergy, Scholarships for Seminarians, Red Cross, Blankets, food for those in need, and countless other ways our Chapter helps in the community. Even if you believe you don’t have the time to participate in the various projects of Philoptochos, YOUR dues makes it possible for Philoptochos to support its many ministries. In Matthew 45, Christ tells us, “In as much as you did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” Please take a minute to complete the attached membership form.
We had a lovely visit to St. Michael’s Home as a community on December 29, 2011. Members from JOY, Sunday Church School, GOYA, Philoptochos and Hellenic Seniors spent the afternoon singing Carols, dropping off gifts and visiting with the residents of St. Michaels. We brought much joy to their hearts, and left with our spirits uplifted.
Philoptochos also hosted our Annual New Year’s Party on January 3, 2012 at The Seasons’. We had a wonderful evening, enjoyed each others fellowship, fine food and plenty of Kefi!
We are proud to announce that 3 of our members will be honored by our Metropolis at the upcoming Agape Luncheon on Saturday, February 4, 2012, for having been members of Philoptochos for 50 or more years. Those members are Constance Caravoulias, Helen Boyas, and Theodora Constandelis. Congratulations to Connie, Helen and Dot. We are proud of their dedication and years of service. The Agape Luncheon will be benefitting the National Philoptochos’ “Philantropia House”, whose goal is to purchase a building in order to house the Philoptochos Charity and Ministry.
On February 25, 2012, along with the Metropolis of NJ we will be making our annual visitation to St. Michael’s Home for the Aged. Once again an opportunity to bring comfort, fellowship and joy to the elderly. If you are interested in attending, please see Thea Portelos.
We are preparing for our Annual Tricky Tray, which will be held on Tuesday, March 13, 2012.
As always we are seeking donations of “new” items to be raffled at the event. We are accepting “new items” valued at $20 and over, as well as gift certificates, and cash to purchase gift items. Please leave donations with a Philoptochos member or in the church office.
Our next Philoptochos meeting is Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 7:30 pm. As always we thank you for your support of Philoptochos’ Ministry.
Sincerely,
Thea Portelos
President