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What began over three decades ago as the visionary Challenge Liturgy Program, founded by Fr. Dennis Strouzas and Manny and Marina Katsoulis at Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church in Port Washington, New York, has blossomed into a comprehensive special needs ministry dedicated to fostering faith, community, and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At the heart of this expansion is the enduring spirit of Samantha Eliades, a beloved and enthusiastic participant in the Challenge Liturgy community since its inception. Samantha’s joyous presence and the acceptance she found within the church underscored the profound impact such ministries have on individuals and their families.

Following Samantha’s unexpected passing in September 2023, her family, alongside Fr. John Lardas and a dedicated committee of Archangel Michael parishioners, channeled their grief into a powerful testament to her memory. This led to the formation of Like A Daisy, a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities through social events and advocacy work focusing on reconnecting them to their faith.

In a remarkable partnership, Like A Daisy and Archangel Michael Church have joined forces to build upon the strong foundation of the Challenge Liturgy Program, developing new initiatives that create an even more vibrant and supportive environment. These enriching additions include:

  • Special Needs Sunday School, providing specialized faith-based education and activities;
  • Special Needs Parent Support Group, offering a vital network for caregivers;
  • “Like A Daisy” Greek Independence Day Float, fostering community engagement and celebration;
  • Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine, providing an unforgettable prom experience; and 
  • “A Special Hour” at Archangel Michael Church’s Greek Festival, offering free rides and food for families of individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusive access to community events.

The Archangel Michael Church’s expanded special needs ministry, championed by the enduring legacy of Samantha and the tireless efforts of her family and the parish community, stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith-based inclusion, and it exemplifies the fundamental right of inclusion for all within our spiritual communities. Not only have individuals with disabilities found a sense of community, but their caregivers have reconnected to their faith and built lasting relationships within the parish as well.  In addition, the expansion of the special needs ministry has triggered a cultural shift, as parishioners are exposed to difference and taught to embrace others with kindness and compassion. 

These initiatives are integral to Project Sam, a pivotal endeavor endorsed by the Archdiocese. Project Sam aims to proactively welcome and integrate into the heart of their faith more people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Project Sam reminds us that by identifying and embracing these individuals in our local communities, we truly serve God by making the church a safe haven where spiritual fulfillment can be found and lasting relationships are forged through love, dignity, respect, and faith. 

Project Sam requests that every Greek Orthodox parish in the U.S. extend a warm invitation to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With the support of the Archdiocese, Project Sam is committed to helping create sustainable and impactful special needs ministries that will thrive in perpetuity. The Archdiocese and Project Sam look forward to supporting other parishes in replicating this vital model.

Project Sam hopes this will extend beyond the Greek Orthodox Church to all Orthodox jurisdictions, Christian denominations, and ultimately all faith communities, affirming that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have a fundamental human right to access, belong to, and live their faith.

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