Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society National Board Members Visit HCHC

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Members of the national leadership of the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, Inc. visited Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology (HCHC) on Thursday, April 20, 2017, opening an important dialogue on how HCHC students, the future priests and lay leaders of the Orthodox Church in America and society, can partner with the organization on philanthropy and faith in action initiatives for the benefit of local communities and support of their work across the nation and world. 

“It is always our great privilege and honor to welcome National Philoptochos to our campus,” said Rev. Fr. Christopher T. Metropulos, HCHC President. “They are invaluable partners, whose unwavering support and generosity enables our school, the only Orthodox Christian institution of its kind in North America, to fulfill its mission of educating the future leaders of our Church and society.”

National Philoptochos President Maria Logus, along with Arlene Siavelis Kehl, Chair of the HCHC Committee for the National Philoptochos Board, and fellow board members Katherine Kotsis and Barbara Pasalis presented to the HCHC community at the Maliotis Cultural Center on its campus. Accompanying the National Board were Elaine Kevgas, Frances Levas, and Georgia Vlitas. 

Introducing the National Philoptochos board members at the afternoon presentation for the entire HCHC community, Dr. James Skedros, Dean of Holy Cross, said, “We are so grateful for what Philoptochos has done for our school, but even more for what they stand for…They do Christ’s work 365 days a year.”

During the visit, the group viewed firsthand results of their organization’s compound contributions to the school, and connected directly with students of both Hellenic College and  Holy Cross who benefit directly from their longstanding largesse.

“The National Philoptochos Society enables scholarships, improved classroom and living environments, operations efficiency and infrastructure improvements that would otherwise not be possible,” continued Rev. Fr. Christopher.  “We offer not only our prayers but love and service as a community toward their continued success.”

Since its founding in 1931, Philoptochos has grown to over 25,000 members in over 400 chapters, making it seemingly the second largest faith-based organization and largest Christian women’s philanthropic organization in the United States. The motto of Philoptochos is “Philanthropy/Fellowship/Faith in Action” – all three elements of which have been manifested abundantly in the organization’s commitment to HCHC.

“I would like to personally thank Maria Logus and the members of the Board for accepting the invitation to visit us,” said Rev. Fr. Christopher. “We look forward to their next visit very soon.”