Orthodox Observer

04/24/2025

St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Palatine, IL is a vibrant community is paving the way to making worship and all their parish ministries accessible for people with disabilities. Fr. Chris and Presvytera Toni Mihalopoulos have organized social events for families with special needs, caregivers, and parish-wide retreats, to help all members become more aware of the physical and societal barriers that exist which prevent people with special needs from becoming active members of their community.

The parish hosted a Christmas Party for families with disabilities with the help of a grant from the Hellenic Foundation. Families enjoyed a lovely sit-down dinner in an intimate and welcoming, sensory-friendly setting, took pictures with St Nicholas, and celebrated the evening with music and Greek dancing.

Presvytera Melanie DiStefano, director of the Fully Human Ministry of the Center for Family Care and On Behalf of All Grant Director, who is also the parent of a child with disabilities, was invited to facilitate a retreat “An Inclusive Church and a Loving Family,” for St. Nectarios families, and to address the entire congregation at the conclusion of Sunday Divine Liturgy the following day to help parishioners better understand their call from Christ to do all in their power to accommodate members with disabilities.

Going above and beyond ADA requirements, the parish has incorporated physical changes to improve their sanctuary accessibility. With the help of the Hellenic Foundation, they were able to help those who are hard of hearing and who wear hearing aids to connect with audio systems using a state-of-the-art “Hearing Loop System.”

The parish leadership has also made great strides to allow unique personal accommodations so that children can more fully enjoy worship services. This parish is empowering their families with special needs to contribute their talents in unique ways so that all members work together for the glory of God.

Photo: St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Palatine, IL.

04/24/2025

In a powerful display of unity, faith, and gratitude, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Sophia is proud to continue hosting a three-day tribute honoring the courageous men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Battalion 11. The celebration, titled “From the Ashes to Appreciation,” continued on April 22 and April 23, at the Cathedral’s Huffington Center, following a moving and joy-filled opening night on April 21.

This tribute was born out of a sincere desire from the Pico Union community to thank the LAFD for their heroic efforts during the January fires. What began as an idea to bring food and water to Fire Station 13 grew into something much larger—and much more meaningful—thanks in part to the leadership and generosity of the Cathedral of Saint Sophia and the vision of local leaders Aurora Corona and retired firefighter/paramedic Andrew Corona.

Understanding the need for a thoughtful and organized approach, Andrew—affectionately known as the “Mayor of Pico Union”—encouraged the community to wait until the crisis passed to fully express their thanks. With the Cathedral’s unwavering support and blessing, the Appreciation Dinner took shape in February. Father Gary Kyriacou, Dean of The Cathedral or Saint Sophia, offered not only the use of the Cathedral’s premier facilities but also catering and spiritual support to bring the event to life.

“The Cathedral is honored to host and help lead this effort,” said Father Gary. “These brave firefighters have risked so much to keep our city safe. When we run from danger, these courageous men and women run towards it! This is a small but heartfelt way we can give back, as a united faith and civic community.”

Each evening is dedicated to a different firefighter shift—B, C, and A—serving six local fire stations: 6, 11, 13, 20, 26, and 29. With the leadership of Battalion Chief Kenneth Cook, and support from Deputy Chief Richard Fields IV and Assistant Chief Melford Beard, this community-driven event is a living testament to service, humility, and deep appreciation. T

he opening night honored Shift B with a dinner featuring roasted lamb from Saint Sophia, chicken from Dino’s, and pasta from Colori Kitchen. Attendees were uplifted by speeches from local leaders and a blessing from Father Gary, followed by a spirited mariachi performance from LA Red Shield/Salvation Army’s Youth Mariachi.

The final two evenings—tonight and tomorrow at 6:00 PM—will welcome and honor Shifts C and A, completing the three-day tribute with the same warmth, hospitality, and heartfelt gratitude.

This event is made possible through the collaboration of five Neighborhood Councils, local restaurants and vendors, and the Friends of the Pico Union Library, funded in part by the Windmill Links Community Environmental Fund.

As the Cathedral of Saint Sophia continues to stand at the heart of the Pico Union community, this tribute is not only a celebration of heroism, but a reaffirmation of faith, fellowship, and the power of gratitude.

Photos: Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

04/24/2025

On Great and Holy Friday, April 18, 2025, Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church of Winston-Salem, North Carolina was blessed with a visit from His Eminence Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta, who offered the Lamentations Service alongside Proistamenos Fr. Minas Tsambounieris.

Photos: Sandy Shepherd.

04/24/2025

On May 6, 2025, join the American School of Classical Studies for an illuminating conversation on the pivotal role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in preserving and promoting Hellenism throughout history, with Maria Mavroudi (UC Berkeley), Helen Evans (The Metropolitan Museum of Art), Tom Papademetriou (Stockton University) and George Demacopoulos (Fordham University). This conversation will examine the Patriarchate's enduring role in safeguarding the tenets of Hellenism, ensuring their transmission across ancient, medieval, and modern eras.

The event is free and open to the public, and will take place Tuesday, May 6th at 6:30pm in the Cathedral Center (The Ballroom at 74th), 337 East 74th Street, New York, NY. Register at the link below.

Photo: American School of Classical Studies.

04/23/2025

On April 11, 2025, Pilgrimage of Discovery announced its 2025 recipients. The 16 young adults selected, representing each Metropolis, will embark on a trip of a lifetime to Constantinople this summer, exploring sacred sites, deepening their faith, and strengthening their connection to the Church.

The Pilgrimage of Discovery, funded by the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, is a transformational program dedicated to sending Orthodox Christian young adults to Constantinople each year to learn about Orthodoxy, our Patriarchate, the history of the Church, the challenges facing the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the experience of the remaining Orthodox people living in Asia Minor and other important priorities. This rewarding experience helps participants better connect to their religious tradition and understand the relevance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate as they prepare to lead the Orthodox Church in the future. This immersive journey creates a lasting impact on identity, faith, family, community and culture and helps secure the continuity of the Orthodox Church from a grassroots level.

Photos: Pilgrimage of Discovery.

04/23/2025

Within the framework of official celebrations planned by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in commemoration of the 1700th anniversary since the First Council of Nicaea, an Academic Symposium will be held in Constantinople and Nicaea on April 24–26, 2025.

The Academic Symposium will be held at the Marasleios Urban School and the Municipality of Nicaea (today’s Iznik). His All-Holiness will be in attendance to welcome participants and declare the official opening of the symposium, which is sponsored by the Huffington Ecumenical Institute at Holy Cross School of Theology.

Speakers at the Academic Symposium of the Ecumenical Patriarchate include the most prominent scholars and authors from all over the world on the First Council of Nicaea and its broader influence on the Christian world.

04/23/2025

Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.

Every Wednesday for five weeks from April 30 – May 28 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. Pacific, online via Zoom

Please register to receive the Zoom link.

Topics include:

Week 1: The Orthodox Christian Worldview

* East and West
* What is the Church? Where is the Church?
* What holds the Church together?
* Holy Tradition and Holy Scripture

Week 2: Early Challenges and the Rule of Faith

* Who is Jesus?
* The Ecumenical Councils
* The Problem of the Lapsed

Week 3: Created for a purpose

* Who are we?
* What are we to do?
* The Royal Vocation of all people
* Bad news and Good news
* Salvation as Theosis

Week 4: The Holy Trinity

* The Revealed Trinity
* The Church as an Icon of the Trinity

Week 5: Orthodox Worship

* An Earthly Heaven
* The Holy Mysteries

About the Instructor:

Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs holds a PhD in Systematic Theology with a minor in Church History from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA, where she has served as an Affiliate Professor of Systematic Theology since 2005. She is the author of A Basic Guide to Eastern Orthodox Theology: Introducing Beliefs and Practices (Baker Academic, 2021), which includes a foreword by His All-Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew, and Seeing the Gospel: An Interpretive Guide to Orthodox Icons (Baker Academic, forthcoming June 2025). Dr. Tibbs represents the Ecumenical Patriarchate on the Faith and Order Commission of the World Council of Churches. She also serves as Ministry Lead for Christian Education and is a member of the Metropolis Council of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.

Register: https://orthodoxyou.com/register/

04/23/2025

Join the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Missions and Evangelism Ministry for the 2025 Growing Orthodoxy Evangelism Conference. This three-day gathering will be held June 9 – 11, 2025 at Saint Paul Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine, CA and is dedicated to equipping Orthodox Christians with practical tools for sharing the faith.

The Growing Orthodoxy Evangelism Conference will feature inspiring speakers, interactive workshops, and meaningful discussions on evangelism. If you are someone passionate about spreading the Gospel or want to learn about evangelism in an Orthodox context, this event will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies to bring back to your community. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with others who share your passion for sharing Christ and strengthening the Church.

The guest speaker will be Rev. Father Adam Roberts who currently serves as President of St. Athanasius Academy of Orthodox Theology and pastor of St. Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church in Katy, TX. He co-founded Camp St. Thekla, authored several books, and has hosted the Go Forth podcast on Ancient Faith Radio, as well as the Stories That Work live broadcast for the Department of Missions and Evangelism. Father Adam’s approach to evangelism is deeply rooted in Orthodox tradition while being practical and relevant for today. He emphasizes that Orthodoxy itself is evangelism, as taught by St. John Chrysostom, and frames evangelism not as a daunting task but as an opportunity to build relationships, share personal stories, and plant seeds of faith.

Registration is open now (https://groworthodoxy.org/2025) with the registration cost only $100 per person through May 1, and after May 2 it increases to $125 per person. Registration includes conference materials and the meals outlined on the schedule. The deadline for registration is June 1 so don’t delay! Hotel accommodations are recommended at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Irvine Spectrum, 949-551-0909.

Register now to be inspired, equipped, and encouraged to share the Orthodox faith – starting in your local area. Visit https://groworthodoxy.org/2025 for more information.

04/23/2025

The Metropolis of San Francisco's Greek Village is waiting for you! Get ready for a one-of-a-kind camp experience where faith, culture, and adventure come together for a summer you’ll never forget.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of St. Nicholas Ranch, Greek Village is where campers immerse themselves in our Orthodox faith, explore Greek heritage, and build lifelong friendships—all while experiencing the spirit of the island of Evia without leaving California.

Why Greek Village?

* Celebrate Culture & Language
* Live Your Faith
* Make Lifelong Friendships
* Enjoy Village Life

Greek Village is a ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco, and every year, we take campers on a journey to a different region of Greece. This summer, we’re bringing the sun, sea, stories, and spirit of Greece to life!

Spaces are limited, and spots fill quickly—don’t miss your chance to be part of Greek Village 2025!

Register now at www.ourgreekvillage.com
Dates: June 15 – 21, 2025
Location: St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center (Dunlap, CA)
For more information, visit our website or contact us at [email protected].

Join us for an unforgettable summer of faith, culture, and connection!

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco | 415-753-3075

[email protected] | www.sanfran.goarch.org

Photo: Metropolis of San Francisco.

04/23/2025

On Palm Sunday, the FREEDOM Ministry, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Peter J. Spiro, welcomed and embraced 28 survivors of human trafficking at the Chapel of Saint Barbara - Shrine for Human Freedom in Tennessee. The sacred gathering served as a moment of spiritual renewal, healing, and community.

The survivors attended the moving church service that concluded with a hands-on activity teaching them how to fold palm crosses—a symbol of peace and victory—and a joyful lesson in the tradition of cracking eggs at Easter, representing resurrection and new beginnings.

“This was more than a gathering—it was a prayerful celebration of survival, hope, and dignity,” said Rev. Dr. Spiro. “These incredible women are walking testimonies of strength, and we are honored to walk beside them on their journey to restoration.”

The full-day event extended beyond the chapel walls. Outreach philanthropy provided attendees with free clothing, shoes, accessories, purses, jewelry, and personal hygiene products, as well as gift cards to support their ongoing needs. These offerings were meant to honor their dignity and assist them in their continued healing process.

The event also featured therapeutic animal interactions, including assisted animal therapy with the facility’s resident peacocks and equine therapy with two gentle horses—offering moments of calm, connection, and joy.

The Chapel of Saint Barbara, which was deemed the Shrine for Human Freedom by the Holy Eparchial Synod, remains a secure and sacred space dedicated to advocacy, healing, and remembrance for all affected by human trafficking.

This Palm Sunday celebration stands as a testament to the power of compassion, faith, and community in the journey toward freedom.

About FREEDOM Ministry
FREEDOM Ministry, is a didactic teaching ministry for parishes and leaders in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese. FREEDOM is led by Rev. Dr. Peter J. Spiro, and is additionally dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking through spiritual care, outreach, and restorative programs that foster long-term healing and independence. For more information, please contact [email protected] www.freedom.goarch.org

Photos: FREEDOM.

04/23/2025

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America attended a Mass celebrated in Pope Francis's memory. The service was presided over by His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Immediately preceding the service, the Archbishop signed the official condolence book at the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations. He was welcomed by the Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency Archbishop Gabriele Caccia.

Photos: Orthodox Observer and St. Patrick's Cathedral (livestream).

04/22/2025

📸: Just a few of the beautiful kouvouklia from across our Archdiocese.

Location and photo credit information in each photo's caption.

04/22/2025

Let us strive for the experience of the Risen Lord in our lives, by filling our hearts and minds with the love, mercy, forgiveness and generosity that flow from the Empty Tomb.

Then, when we speak these words, they shall not be a mere piece of information, or at minimum, a salutation. They shall be the truth of our souls and the reality of our lives: Χριστὸς ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καὶ τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι, ζωὴν χαρισάμενος. Christ is risen from the dead, by death trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Fresco: Anastasis, Chora Church, Constantinople, c. 1316–1321.

04/22/2025

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America presided over the Agape Vespers at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Merrick, New York, on the evening of Holy and Great Pascha. His Eminence celebrsted with His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, His Grace Bishop Nektarios of Diokleia, and Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos.

“In this season of Pascha, when we sing: ‘let us forgive everything in the Resurrection’ (Doxastikon of the Matins)...let us take hold of one another and lift up each other through love, compassion, forgiveness and mercy,” His Eminence remarked, “For God lifted us up first, so that we might share the exaltation of love with everyone around us. Because only then can we sing with true integrity and unfettered joy the gladsome Paschal anthem: Christ is risen from the dead, by death trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life!”

Photos: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos.

04/21/2025

The joy of Pascha is tinged with a note of sadness today, as we learn of the repose in the Lord of Pope Francis. In a world of increasing animosity, conflict and hate, Pope Francis was a towering figure of compassion, empathy and love. Memory Eternal, Requiescat in Pace.

Photo: Ecumenical Patriarchate/Nikolaos Manginas.

04/21/2025

Archbishop Elpidophoros Celebrates Resurrection Service at Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity

04/21/2025

04/20/2025

My beloved Christians, raise your candles and let your light shine! Lift your voices and proclaim the wondrous acts of God! Just as the Lord Jesus Christ rose from the dead on the First Pascha, He rises again in our hearts, and His Light will never wane.

You have received the Unwaning Light; now share it among yourselves and with the world by acts of kindness and compassion, and with Faith, Hope and Love. For Christ rises like ten thousand suns within our hearts, to shed His love and mercy on all God’s Creation. To Him be the glory, the power, and the dominion, forever and ever. Amen!

Χριστὸς Ἀνέστη! Christ is Risen!

Photos: Orthodox Observer/Brittainy Newman.