One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” Proverbs 11:24-25
Happening Now: Christmas Sock Drive!
The Ladies Philoptochos of Saint George on West 54th Street is hosting a Christmas Sock Drive now! On Christmas Eve, the Philoptochos will be partnering with the Archdiocesan Philoptochos Social Services Committee in the “Feed the Hungry” program to distribute meals and socks to those in need. You can donate socks by bringing NEW socks to church every Sunday from now until Christmas Eve!
Please read more about these efforts with a letter from Philoptochos President, Efti Sereti, below:
Events
The Ladies Philoptochos Society of St. George Tropeoforos Greek Orthodox Church hosted an enlightening lecture on mental health and well-being on Sunday, October 6, featuring licensed Clinical Psychologist Dr. Alexandra Petrou. The event was a great success, providing valuable insights and fostering important discussions.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this meaningful conversation. We look forward to future events that promote mental health awareness and well-being in our community.
A Request for Your Help on Behalf of Joanne Kakoyiannis
Dear Philoptochos Sisters and Friends,
We come to you with a heartfelt message on behalf of the family of National Philoptochos Board Member Joanne Kakoyiannis. Joanne has been a long-standing National Philoptochos Board member who has been rooted in the mission of the Greek Orthodox Church throughout her entire life. She is currently facing stage 5 chronic kidney disease and urgently requires a kidney transplant.
Her doctors have informed them that time is of the essence. If Joanne has to rely on a kidney from a deceased donor, the wait would optimistically be 5 – 8 years, during which time she would need to undergo dialysis. This extended period on dialysis would take a toll on her health, negatively impacting the quality of her life.
They’ve learned that the best solution is a kidney transplant from a living donor. This process is quicker, and once the match is made and tests are cleared, the transplant could happen in less than a year. Moreover, a kidney from a living donor tends to have a longer lifespan compared to one from a deceased donor.
Despite their sincere desire to donate a kidney, medical evaluations reveal that her husband, Peter Kakoyiannis, is not compatible with Joanne. Their children are being evaluated but are likely to face similar incompatibility issues because of a few factors, including Joanne’s blood type, which is O-positive.
Joanne pictured with her children and grandchildren. Please consider becoming a living donor.
Recognizing that a living transplant offers Joanne the best chances, they are reaching out to each of you. Considering becoming a living donor is a significant decision. Joanne is working with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Kidney Transplant Program (“Penn”), and they are available for confidential discussions to provide information about the living donation process, address your concerns, and answer any questions you may have. You can contact Penn at (215) 662-6200 or visit their website and intake form here. All communication with the Donation Center is confidential, and Joanne’s family will only be advised if there is a suitable match. Thankfully, Joanne’s medical insurance covers the transplant and hospitalization, ensuring there is no financial burden on the donor.
If you are not in a position to be a donor but know someone who may be open to this possibility, please let them know about Joanne’s situation and feel free to share this letter. They also have built a personal site that tells Joanne’s story, so please share it widely using social media: http://www.helpingjoannefindakidney.com/
If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to reach out to Penn (tel 215-662-6200 and website here). Peter Kakoyiannis (tel 215-715-5378; email petrok@gmail.com) and Jason Kakoyiannis (213-590-9125; jason@jasonkak.com) are available for confidential discussions as well.
In summary, Joanne’s health is rapidly declining, and without a kidney transplant, her situation will continue to worsen. At the same time, they’re approaching this situation with hope and gratitude and are optimistic that, with your support and their group of friends, family, and community, they can find a solution for Joanne’s urgent need.
Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
The Kakoyiannis Family (Peter, Jason, Alana, Marissa, & Joanne)
Past Events
May 2024: Sisterhood of the Traveling Philoptochos
Our chapter hosted fellow chapters of Ladies Philoptochos on Saturday, May 11 in the second floor space at Saint George. It was a wonderful day of fellowship and community about the Philoptochos sisters! We look forward to more events with local chapters in the future.
Scenes from the Sisterhood of the Traveling Philoptochos Event
March 2024: Bingo Fundraiser Night
Our Bingo Fundraiser Nighter, our inaugural fundraising event took place on Friday, March 22 at 7 p.m. at Saint George!
We had Bingo, food, fellowship, and a raffle drawing. Many thanks to all who attended and those who supported the event by providing the prizes and food. It was a wonderful evening, and we can’t wait for more events in the future!
Scenes from our Bingo Night!
Upcoming Philoptochos Board & General Meetings
Sunday, September 15: General Meeting
Sunday, November 10: General Meeting
Letter from Philoptochos President, Efti Sereti
To the Saint George Community,
It is with great pleasure to announce that on December 10, 2023, our chapter of Ladies Philoptochos, with the auspices and blessings of our Spiritual Father Sophronios, has again resumed its mission! The newly elected board members are listed below. Our mission is to welcome old and new members alike and encourage you to assist us in building up our chapter once again. Men are also welcome to join as members.
| Executive Board 2024: Ladies Philoptochos Chapter of Saint George |
| President: Efti Sereti |
| First Vice President: Natalie Becerra |
| Second Vice President: Marilena Lekas |
| Corresponding Secretary: Scalla J. |
| Recording Secretary: Annastacia Filippidis |
| Treasurer: Irini Tsounakas |
| Assistant Treasurer: Nafsika Michael |
| Advisor: Gina Georgiou |
In December, we had a brief meeting where we were able to brainstorm about our major initiatives including, but not limited to, fundraising and supporting philanthropic activities and other programs that benefit people in need.
Our Philoptochos chapter is growing, and we hope that you will consider joining as a member in 2024. We encourage you all to be part of this meaningful cause to promote charitable, benevolent, and philanthropic outreach; to preserve the sanctity of life and family; and to perpetuate the promotion of our Orthodox faith and traditions.
In January, the Executive Board took their Oath of Office in front of the congregation, followed by the Philoptochos Vasilopita cutting. Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 11, 2024 following Divine Liturgy. We hope you will join us then!
To join our Philoptochos chapter, email stgeorge54nycphiloptochos@gmail.com. Saint George is truly a diamond in the heart of Manhattan and together we can make it shine ever more!
Respectfully Yours,
Efti Sereti
President, Ladies Philoptochos chapter of St. George Tropeoforos Greek Orthodox Church
