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2022 Ministry Awards Program Booklet Flipbook PDF
2022 Ministry Awards Program Booklet
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The 36th Annual Metropolis of Boston
Ministry Awards Celebration Sunday, June 12, 2022
“Well done good and faithful servant” – MATTHEW 25:21
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His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, the New England Clergy Brotherhood, the Metropolis Council, the Metropolis Philoptochos Board, and The Faithful of the Metropolis of Boston
Congratulate the Recipients of the 2022 Ministry Award Together with 35 Parishes throughout New England that have reached their 100th Anniversary Milestone.
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Thank you for your faithful service! God bless you!
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Table of Contents Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tonight’s Master of Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Special Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Metropolis Scholarship Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Parish Centennial Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 2022 Ministry Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Metropolis of Boston Parishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 2022 Ministry Award Recipients and Biographies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Special Thanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Tonight’s Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
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Program American National Anthem and Greek National Anthem Katerina Makiej, Vocalist
❖ Invocation His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios Assisted by the Reverend Father Theodore J. Barbas, Chancellor
❖ Master of Ceremonies Peter Eliopoulos, Reporter, WCVB News Center 5
❖ Greetings Athena Kalyvas, President, Metropolis Philoptochos Board The Reverend Father Thomas Chininis, President, New England Clergy Brotherhood The Honorable Stratos Efthymiou, Consul General of Greece in Boston
❖ Presentation of the Metropolis Scholarships Charles C. Condes Memorial Fund and St. George Society of Tsamantas Nicholas Kourtis, Scholarship Committee Chairman
❖ Dance Performance The Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great Dance Group George Papadopoulos, Director
❖ Presentation of Parish Centennial Awards
❖ Video Presentation
❖ Archpastoral Reflections
❖ Presentation of 2022 Ministry Awards
❖ Benediction
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Tonight’s Master of Ceremonies Peter Eliopoulos Peter Eliopoulos is an Emmy award winning reporter for WCVB NewsCenter 5. He’s covered Covid-19, blizzards, problems with the MBTA and a variety of other issues impacting Bay State residents since January 2020.
Peter joined WCVB from NEWS10ABC in Albany, New York where he served as a reporter since October 2018. Prior to NEWS10, Peter was a reporter for KFDM News in Beaumont, Texas.
Peter is a native of Ipswich, Massachusetts with deep local ties, and a diehard Boston sports fan. Peter knew he wanted to be a journalist ever since he was a kid in elementary school. After a local meteorologist visited his classroom and talked about both weather and news, it was Peter’s lifelong goal to become a reporter. Peter earned a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Maryland and graduated in 2016. In his spare time, Peter enjoys spending time with friends and family at the beach, on the slopes, or pretty much anywhere outdoors.
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Special Recognition This Evening’s Dance Performance by The Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great Celebrating their 50th Anniversary The Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great is the Boston youth chapter of the Panmacedonian Association of the United States. The group was founded in 1972 by George Papadopoulos and it is the first Greek folklore dance group created in the Boston area that aims to promote Greek culture and history.
ria, Veroia, Kastoria, Kozani, Naousa, and Florina.
The history of the ancient Kingdom of Macedonia and the legacy of its legendary king, Alexander the Great, inspired Mr. Papadopoulos to name the troupe after one of the most significant Hellenistic leaders—an homage to the founder’s Macedonian heritage. The group is an integral part of the vibrant and robust Greek community of contemporary Greater Boston. Over a period of fifty years, the dance group has taught more than a thousand Hellenes and philhellenes the music and dance traditions of Hellas, creating valuable connections amongst youth of Greek descent. Through the dancing troupe, thirty-nine couples have met and wed, establishing families and upholding Greek values and ideals. The “Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great” have performed all over the United States and Canada, continuing to do so at cultural and folk dance festivals. The dance troupe has been invited to participate in Greek community events, including the Greek Independence Parade, weddings, and many others throughout the Greater Boston region. The group has represented the Metropolis of Boston at the Greek Folklore Dance Festival, which took place in Buenos Aires, and has performed in Greek cities such as Athens, Katerini, Litohoro, Pie-
The group that started with eight dancers now has more than fifty-five. Practices are held weekly, at which our group members learn and perform traditional dances from all over Greece. Most dancers are from the Greater Boston area and Greece and, although of varied backgrounds and professions, all share the love and passion for our valuable arts and traditions. The group’s repertoire has grown over time with more dances from ever more sundry parts of Greece. As Mr. Papadopoulos travels throughout the Hellenic homeland, he collects music and learns new steps. Every costume worn by the dancers is an authentic piece, handmade in Greece. They have been collected over the years and include special costumes and gifts from appreciative viewers of the dance group. Today, the next generation of dancers continues the teaching tradition and is always open to new members. Director: Mr. George Papadopoulos Dancers: Elena Bibilos Prokopis Dimas Alexis Papathanasiou Anna Papouli Alexander Ruggeri Dimitris Stamoulis Arthur Theophilopoulos
Stefania Calogrias Sophia Grammenos Anastasia Papouli Giorgos Papoulis Artemasia Stamoulis Haralampos Stathopoulos Jason Vafiades
The Dances that they will perform at the Dinner: Enteka Kalamatianos Tsamikos
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The Metropolis of Boston Proudly Announces its 2022-2023 Academic Year Scholarships St. George’s Hellenic Benefit Society of Tsamantas, Greece Scholarship Fund The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston is pleased to announce the recipients of the Saint George’s Hellenic Benefit Society of Tsamantas scholarships for Greek American and Greek Canadian students for the upcoming 2022-2023 academic year. Known in Epirus as the ‘village of benefactors’, Tsamantas, a once-thriving mountainous village of more than 1,500 inhabitants in the prefecture of Thesprotia, Epirus, currently has a population of fewer than twenty residents. Many young men from the village ventured to Worcester, Massachusetts at the turn of the twentieth century seeking to forge a new life for their families. In 1908, some forty of these pioneers established one of the first Greek American fraternal organizations in the United States, The St. George Hellenic Benefit Society of Tsamantas (the Society). Their aims were to assist their family and friends back in their home village, build the village’s two schools, and help establish the now long-thriving Greek Orthodox church and community in Worcester. In 2020, the Society endowed a perpetual scholarship fund, which, under the aegis of His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of Boston, continues the Society’s founders’ mission of aiding deserving Greek American students in achieving their academic ambitions while also commemorating the ancestral village of Tsamantas, its venerable Society, and its many founders and benefactors for generations to come. The St. George Scholarship Fund awards two scholarships annually: the first scholarship award is named in honor of Stavros Bellos, one of Tsamantas’ native sons and the village’s greatest benefactor, who bequeathed a surpassingly generous sum of money, which was used to help endow the perpetual scholarship program through the Metropolis. The second scholarship is in memory of Arthur Athanasiou, who served several tenures as president and a member of the board of directors of the Society and was the driving force in establishing the Society’s original scholarship program more than thirty years ago. The Stavros Bellos Scholarship will provide a $7,500 award, and the Arthur Athanasiou Scholarship a $5,000 award.
The Saint George’s Hellenic Benefit Society of Tsamantas Award Winners for the upcoming 2022-2023 Academic Year are: Stavros Bellos Scholarship – Isabella Vangos Isabella is from Auburn, Massachusetts. She will be a sophomore at Bentley University, majoring in data analytics/actuarial science. Her academic achievements have been noted on both the Dean’s and President’s Lists, and she is active in the Women’s Leadership Program. Her home parish is Saint Spyridon Cathedral in Worcester. Arthur Athanasiou Scholarship – Evangelos Comitas Evangelos is from Worcester, Massachusetts. He matriculated at Saint John’s High School in Shrewsbury, with a 3.80 GPA. With two fellow Greek Orthodox Christians, Evangelos founded his school’s first Orthodox Fellowship Club, which met weekly for prayer and community. He will be attending Northeastern University and majoring in business. His home parish is Saint Spyridon Cathedral in Worcester.
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Charles C. Condes Memorial Scholarship Fund His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios announces additional scholarship opportunities to Greek Orthodox college students, in furtherance of the Metropolis’s long-standing and successful mission to promote engaging campus ministry throughout the college years. The Charles C. Condes Memorial Scholarships are offered annually from funds granted to the Metropolis from the trust of Charles Constantine Condes to provide college student aid. This year, two scholarship recipients will each receive $7,500. Charles Condes was born in Chicago, Illinois to Constantine S. and Harikleia (Yiannias) Condes, who had emigrated from Niata, Lakonia and Alea, Arkadia, respectively. He was the third of their four children. The Great Depression affected millions of Americans while Condes was growing up. This experience did not curb his ambition to be successful and, at the young age of sixteen, he opened his own dairy store. Condes worked a series of additional jobs while attending the Illinois Institute of Technology as a first-generation college student. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, Condes served in the United States Army Air Corps during the Second World War as a meteorologist attached to the Royal Air Force. During the war, he was stationed across North Africa, the Middle East, and in Cyprus. After the conclusion of his military service, he worked as an engineering consultant, including as a bridge design engineer for the City of Chicago. In addition, by making many astute investments, he greatly expanded his personal fortune. Charles was happily married for twenty-five years to the late Phyllis Holik. He was a highly principled man, who was devoted to his family and his faith. A philanthropist, who donated to many charities and churches, he was a great believer in the power of education and an admirer of all things Hellenic. Through his endowment of scholarships, he chose to demonstrate his pride in the Greek American students, who represent the future of Hellenism and Orthodoxy in the United States.
The Condes Memorial Award Winners for the upcoming 2022-2023 Academic Year are: Constantine George Coclin Constantine is a senior at the University of Rhode Island (URI), majoring in ocean engineering with minors in civil engineering and mathematics, with a 3.90 GPA. Constantine has also received the Eagle Scout Award. At URI, he has participated in his Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) chapter since freshman year. During his sophomore year, he was elected OCF president and continues to serve in that role, organizing biweekly meetings on campus with local chapter clergy. His home parish is Annunciation in Cranston, Rhode Island. Harry Katsaros Harry is a senior at Boston University (BU), majoring in electrical engineering, with a 3.90 GPA. He is a member of the BU Hellenic Organization and Orthodox Christian Fellowship. Harry has been a member of the Metropolis Dance Troupe and is an evzone of the Federation of Hellenic Societies of New England, proudly wearing his foustanella at Greek Independence Day parades in Boston, as well as in Detroit and Chicago this year. His home parish is St. Nectarios in Roslindale,
Massachusetts.
❖ Metropolis of Boston Scholarship Committee - Spring 2021 Nicholas Kourtis, Esq., Chairman John Anton Nicholas Athanasiou
Ann Bezzerides Harriette Condes-Zervakis Leah Kofos, Esq.
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Toula Koulisis Teena Lenis Pete N. Zervakis
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2022 Centennial Award Recipients Saints Constantine and Helen Church Andover, Massachusetts
Saint George Cathedral Manchester, New Hampshire
Annunciation Cathedral of New England Boston, Massachusetts
Saints Anargyroi Church Marlborough, Massachusetts
Saint John the Baptist Church Boston, Massachusetts
Saint Philip Church Nashua, New Hampshire
Annunciation Church Brockton, Massachusetts
Annunciation Church Newburyport, Massachusetts
Saints Constantine and Helen Church Cambridge, Massachusetts
Saint Spyridon Church Newport, Rhode Island
Saints Constantine and Helen Church Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts
Holy Trinity Church Norwich, Connecticut
Saint Nicholas Church Clinton, Massachusetts
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Annunciation Church Cranston, Rhode Island
Saint Vasilios Church Peabody, Massachusetts
Holy Trinity Church Danielson, Connecticut
Saint George Church Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Saint George Church Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Saint Demetrios Church Saco, Maine
Annunciation Church Dover, New Hampshire
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church Somersworth, New Hampshire
Holy Trinity Church Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church Somerville, Massachusetts
Holy Apostles / Saints Peter and Paul Church Haverhill, Massachusetts
Saint George Church Southbridge, Massachusetts
Holy Trinity Church Holyoke, Massachusetts
Saint George Cathedral Springfield, Massachusetts
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church Ipswich, Massachusetts
Saints Constantine and Helen Church Webster, Massachusetts
Holy Trinity Church Lewiston, Maine
Annunciation Church Woburn, Massachusetts
Holy Trinity Church Lowell, Massachusetts
Saint Spyridon Cathedral Worcester, Massachusetts
Saint George Church Lynn, Massachusetts
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients CONNECTICUT
MASSACHUSETTS (continued)
Holy Trinity, Danielson
Demetrios & Anastasia Balis
St. Sophia, New London
Irene Synodi
Holy Trinity, Norwich Lemonia Toromanides & Maria Valkanos
Sts. Anargyroi, Marlborough James John Liatsos Annunciation, Newburyport St. Vasilios, Peabody
Ronald Ramseur
Konstantinos Antoniou
St. Nectarios, Roslindale
Dimitrios Stamoulis
Dormition of the Virgin Mary, Somerville Anargyros Sparages
MAINE Holy Trinity, Lewiston
Panagiota Goulet
St. George Cathedral, Springfield
Joseph Spano
Taxiarchae/Archangels, Watertown Ernest & Loretta (posthumously) Anastos
MASSACHUSETTS Sts. Constantine & Helen, Andover Buzz Stapczynski St. Athanasius, Arlington
S. Nicholas Kriketos
Sts. Constantine & Helen, Webster Nikefore Popiak
Annunciation Cathedral of New England, Boston Maria Theodore
St. Demetrios, Weston
Pamela Laganas Brody
Annunciation, Woburn
Angeliki Kolokithas
St. John the Baptist, Boston
St. Spyridon Cathedral, Worcester George & Helen Panagiotopoulos
Stathis Andreadis
St. Catherine, Braintree
Alexandra Carroll
Annunciation, Brockton
Stefania Calogrias
Sts. Constantine & Helen, Cambridge Nikki Georgoulis Kalogeropoulos St. George, Centerville Kenneth & Christine Vancisin Nativity of the Virgin Mary, Cohasset Arianna Desilets St. George, Dartmouth Anthony G. & Maria C. Chirigotis Assumption, Dracut Christos & Georgiana Kotsironis St. Luke, East Longmeadow
Antonia Rizas
St. Demetrios, Fall River Evangelos S Giotis (posthumously) Holy Trinity, Fitchburg Holy Apostles, Haverhill
James Idaris Eleni Lambropoulos
Holy Trinity, Holyoke
Demetrios Panteleakis
Assumption, Ipswich
Eleanor Galanis Todd
St. Nicholas, Lexington
Alexa Gabriele Vafiades
Holy Trinity, Lowell Dr. George P. & Ritsa (Bakelas) Meltsakos St. George, Lowell
Stilyanne Pappas
Transfiguration, Lowell Father John & Presvytera Panayiota Vaporis St. George, Lynn
Parthenope Athanasopoulos
St. Gregory, Mansfield Theodore & Maria Chingris
NEW HAMPSHIRE Holy Trinity, Concord Christopher Condodemetraky Annunciation, Dover
Kimon & Paraskevula Lalas
St. George, Keene
Louis Nicholas Kolivas
St. Nicholas, Manchester
Michael Poulios
St. George Cathedral, Manchester John Stavropoulos Assumption, Manchester Demetrios George Folopoulos St. Philip, Nashua St. Vasilios, Newport
Donald LeBrun Christos Vasilios Georgitsis
St. Nicholas, Portsmouth
Barbara Pamboukes
RHODE ISLAND Annunciation, Cranston St. Spyridon, Newport Assumption, Pawtucket
Georgia Pappas Petros & Vicki Kyriakides Miltiadis Michael Karavolis
VERMONT Dormition of the Virgin Mary, Burlington Nektarios Le Brun
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Metropolis of Boston Parishes
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Parish
Location
Established
Holy Trinity Hellenic Orthodox Church
Lowell, Massachusetts
1900
Annunciation Cathedral of New England
Boston, Massachusetts
1903
Annunciation
Cranston, Rhode Island
1905
Saint George
Lynn, Massachusetts
1905
Saint George Cathedral
Manchester, New Hampshire
1905
Annunciation
Dover, New Hamphire
1906
Saint Philip
Nashua, New Hamphire
1906
Saint Vasilios
Peabody, Massachusetts
1906
Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Ipswich, Massachusetts
1907
Saint George Cathedral
Springfield, Massachusetts
1907
Holy Apostles/ Saints Peter and Paul
Haverhill, Massachusetts
1908
Holy Trinity
Norwich, Connecticut
1909
Saint Demetrios
Saco, Maine
1909
Dormition of Virgin Mary
Somersworth, New Hampshire
1909
Saint George
Dartmouth, Massachusetts
1910
Holy Trinity
Lewiston, Maine
1910
Saint George
Southbridge, Massachusetts
1910
Assumption
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
1912
Saint Nicholas
Clinton, Massachusetts
1913
Holy Trinity
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
1914
Saint Spyridon Cathedral
Worcester, Massachusetts
1914
Saint Spridon
Newport, Rhode Island
1915
Annunciation
Brockton, Massachusetts
1916
Holy Trinity
Danielson, Connecticut
1916
Saints Anargyroi
Marlborough, Massachusetts
1916
Dormition of the Virgin Mary
Somerville, Massachusetts
1916
Saints Constantine and Helen
Andover, Massachusetts
1917
Saints Constantine and Helen
Cambridge, Massachusetts
1917
Holy Trinity
Holyoke, Massachusetts
1917
Annunciation of the Virgin Mary
Woburn, Massachusetts
1917
Saints Constantine and Helen
Chicopee , Massachusetts
1918
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Metropolis of Boston Parishes Parish
Location
Established
Annunciation
Newburyport, Massachusetts
1918
Saints Constantine and Helen
Webster, Massachusetts
1919
Saint John the Baptist
Boston, Massachusetts
1922
Saint George
Pittsfield, Massachusetts
1922
Transfiguration
Lowell, Massachusetts
1924
Saint George
Bangor, Maine
1926
Holy Trinity
Portland, Maine
1926
Saint George
Keene, New Hampshire
1928
Saint George
Lowell, Massachusetts
1928
Saint Demetrios
Fall River, Massachusetts
1930
Holy Transfiguration
Franklin, New Hampshire
1930
Holy Trinity
Concord, New Hampshire
1931
Saint Nicholas
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
1931
Saint Nicholas
Manchester, New Hampshire
1932
Taxiarchai/Archangels
Laconia, New Hampshire
1936
Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Manchester, New Hampshire
1936
Taxiarchae/Archangels
Watertown, Massachusetts
1937
Saint Sophia
New London, Connecticut
1939
Saint George
Centerville, Massachusetts
1949
Saint Vasilios
Newport, New Hampshire
1952
Saint Catherine
Braintree, Massachusetts
1958
Dormition of the Mother of God
Burlington, Vermont
1958
Saint Demetrios
Weston, Massachusetts
1959
Saint Nicholas
Rutland, Vermont
1960
Saint Athanasius the Great
Arlington, Massachusetts
1964
Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Dracut, Massachusetts
1964
Saint Nicholas
Lexington, Massachusetts
1964
Saint Nectarios
Roslindale, Massachusetts
1974
Saint Luke
East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
1977
Nativity of the Virgin Mary
Cohasset, Massachusetts
1981
Saint Gregory
Mansfield, Massachusetts
1992
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients CONNECTICUT Holy Trinity Danielson ❖ Demetrios “Jimmy” and Anastasia Balis It is with great joy that Holy Trinity of Danielson, Connecticut honors Demetrios “Jimmy” and Anastasia Balis to receive the Boston Metropolis Laity Award. Jimmy and Anastasia dedicate themselves to the church, making sure that the Hellenic hall is ready with refreshments for every gathering or event. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to make certain that everything is prepared with attention to the smallest detail. They arrive to church early and are almost always the last to leave, ensuring everything is in its place, clean, and ready for the next event. Jimmy and Anastasia serve without complaint, humbly, and, most importantly, with love. Not only do Jimmy and Anastasia check in on the ill, but they also offer rides to those parishioners who would otherwise be unable to attend services.
Saint Sophia New London ❖ Irene Synodi Irene Synodi is a devout member of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in New London, Connecticut and often attends the sacred services. She is a retired elementary school teacher of over thirty years. Irene is the wife of the late Demetrios Synodi, and is a proud mother and grandmother. She has been an active member of Philoptochos for many years. For over twenty years, Irene has been faithfully cooking and organizing church-sponsored meals for those in need at the New London Community Meal Center. Furthermore, at any festival, fundraiser, or event, Irene is always ready to help with cooking, baking, and setups wherever possible. Irene is well known for her caring and gentle demeanor. It has been said that Irene serves in a humble, unassuming, yet purposeful manner with a true sense of philoxenia. ❖
Jimmy and Anastasia have also offered countless hours at the annual Greek festival, being impeccable hosts to those who come seeking delicious food and genuine fellowship. If there is a need in the church, Jimmy and Anastasia will work on the front lines and find a solution. The community of Holy Trinity adores and respects both Jimmy and Anastasia, as they are a shining example of a beautiful Orthodox Christian marriage, working side-by-side and encouraging each other with smiles on their faces. Parishioners have expressed that no matter who you are, Jimmy and Anastasia will treat you like family and make you feel welcomed and loved. We could not picture the church without them. May they continue to be examples of service with abundant love and humility. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients CONNECTICUT Holy Trinity Norwich ❖ Lemonia Toromanides and Maria Valkanos Lemonia Toromanides and her daughter Maria Toromanides Valkanos have been devoted to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church since 1989. Lemonia was raised in the town of Lahanas, Thessaloniki, Greece. She is one of six children of Anesti and Parthena (Afentoulidou) Kesides. In 1969, she married Manoli Toromanides. She is grateful for her three children, Maria, Eleni, and Haralambos, and her seven grandchildren.
Maria is the former parish council president, vice president, and secretary, currently serving as a board member and assistant treasurer. She is a twenty-three-year member the Philoptochos, serving as secretary. She serves as president of the Lysandros Daughters of Penelope. She has also taught Sunday school. Maria organizes fundraisers, bake sales, dances, raffles, the soup kitchen, and veteran Christmas wish lists, and has spearheaded capital improvements. She serves as the unofficial “koliva lady.” Maria was awarded the 2010 AHEPAN Community Service Award. Maria assists with Fr. Paul Pantelis in his ministry, visiting shut-ins, blessing homes and business, and visiting the sick. Lemonia and Maria can be found in the kitchen during most events. They reflect a strong work ethic and dedication to their Greek Orthodox faith and community. ❖
In 1977, the family immigrated to the United States. Lemonia found work in a Greek-owned restaurant. Lemonia is a master chef, with over thirty years’ experience in the restaurant industry. She opened her first restaurant in Lisbon, Connecticut in 1987. Soon thereafter, she was asked to prepare the pastitsio for the annual Greek food festival. Maria attended college while working. Maria Valkanos is married to Christos. They have two children, Dimitrios and Ioannis. Christos has been working in his family restaurant since 1978, with Maria at his side since 1993. Maria graduated from Mohegan Community College with an associate degree in legal secretarial. She then graduated summa cum laude from Eastern Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s in political science. After college, she worked for MetLife. Her two careers gave her resources to coordinate the Holy Trinity Greek food festival. She has been chairperson since 2007. Maria credits her success to her mother’s Greek cooking.
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MAINE
MASSACHUSETTS
Holy Trinity Lewiston ❖ Panagiota “Jaye” Goulet
Saints Constantine and Helen Andover ❖ Buzz Stapczynski
Panayiota Mendros “Jaye” Goulet was born and raised in Lewiston, Maine and is a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. She is the daughter of the late Dr. John and Florentia Mendros. Since 1977, Holy Trinity has sat on land that her family donated, adjacent to the home where she was raised with her three brothers. Jaye is devoted to her faith and family. She is proud of her Greek heritage and especially of her family’s roots in Mani! She graduated from Boston University and later married her husband, Ronald Goulet. Together they raised three wonderful sons, Raymond, John, and Jason, who are the light of her life. She received her graduate degree from University of Southern Maine, graduating in the same year as her son Raymond. Following in her father’s footsteps, Jaye has served Holy Trinity over the years in various capacities. She is currently the vice president of the parish council and publishes the church’s online weekly bulletin. She can always be found at the annual Greek festival serving Greek coffee and her famous baklava ice cream sundaes with her sons and nieces by her side. She has also served as Sunday school teacher and is involved in many activities of her small community. Jaye’s passion for her Greek Orthodox faith was instilled by her parents and she has passed on her love for God and church to her family. She continues to selflessly serve Holy Trinity and she is highly deserving of this year’s Metropolis of Boston Ministry Award. ❖
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In his professional life, Buzz was a highly successful and charismatic town manager of Andover for twenty-five years. As an Orthodox Christian, he has wholeheartedly offered his skills to the church to better the parish with authentic professionalism, patience, good order, kindness, and compassion. Buzz has been a longtime and dedicated role model and steward of our parish. He has served on the parish council for over twenty-five years and as its most recent president for eight years. During his tenure, he has also served on many of the various committees and ministries of the parish, including the long range planning, stewardship, festival, 100th anniversary, ushers, building, and finance committees. He currently oversees the facilities and insurance committee. However, Buzz is not just an administrator or committee member. He has been a mentor to many parishioners and a hands-on, serve-the-church person wherever and whenever the need exists. The midnight agape meal prep and help—he is there. Festival planning, preparation, and work—he is there. Landscaping for the church grounds— he is there. Lenten luncheon worker—he is there. Cleaning the church—he is there. Church reader—he is there. Participating and representing the parish at ecumenical events—he is there. Buzz Stapczynski is a servant, leader, and Orthodox Christian churchman par excellence! He continues to humbly serve the parish in many ways, known and unknown, seen and unseen. Our parish is honored to have him as our 2022 Laity Award recipient. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saint Athanasius Arlington ❖ S. Nicholas Kriketos Nicholas Kriketos is a humble, lifelong parishioner of St. Athanasius the Great parish in Arlington Massachusetts, where he received the sacrament of Baptism in 1981. He serves continuously for the love he has for his church, its communicants, and, most importantly, Christ, never looking for recognition or accolades. He began his service to Christ and His Church at the age of seven, when he asked his parents to be an altar server. Since 2007, Nicholas has been at the forefront of all church repairs, maintenance, emergencies, storm losses, capital renovations, and improvements. Serving as the chairman of facilities, maintenance, buildings, and grounds, Nicholas is always fully engaged in parish matters, loving what he does and working with key ministry leaders and parishioners. Some of his favorite church projects are liturgical artifact and sacramental vessel restorations as well as renovations that beautify the church interior and exterior, improving the worship experience. Nicholas has also served as the parish health and safety liaison to the Town of Arlington from 2008-2020, advising and safeguarding the parish on public health, local regulatory requirements, and food safety and establishing protocols and best practices. He served as parish council secretary for fourteen years and currently holds the office of associate treasurer. When asked about his service to St. Athanasius Church, Nicholas simply states that he loves Christ and His Church, thinking nothing a chore. He credits his mother, who instilled in him “Where there is a will, there is a way” and to always love the church. Today, Nicholas’s focus remains sharp and his energy high, making time for the good of the parish, always ensuring
that the beauty of St. Athanasius remains a shining beacon, a testament of hope, love, and perseverance, spreading the gospel of Christ and His Church. ❖
Annunciation Cathedral Boston ❖ Maria Theodore Maria Theodore was born in Lampeti, Pyrgos, Ilia, Greece and is the daughter of Tasia and George Plastougou. After completing her high school education, she attended English classes at the Greek American Institute, pursuing a diploma in English. In August of 1963, she met her husband Harry Theodore of Boston while he was visiting relatives in Greece. There was ‘instant chemistry,’ and they were married in Greece that same month. She and her husband were married for forty-nine years before he passed away seven years ago. They are blessed with two sons, Dr. George Theodore and Michael Theodore, Esq. George is married to Dr. Pauline Pappas and they have two children, Harry and Maria; Michael is married to Irene Xifaras with two children, Harry and Sam. Maria and her husband instilled in their children and grandchildren the value of education, faith, and good character. Both sons served as altar boys at the Cathedral. Maria has been a lifelong member of Annunciation Cathedral. She has honorably served on the parish council for six years and has been very active in many cathedral festivals, offering baking and cooking workshops, and managing the “Attic Treasures” area. She now runs the cathedral bookstore. She has been a member of the Daughters of Penelope for over thirty years, serving as (continued)
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS (Maria Theodore, continued) president for two years, and playing an instrumental role in reactivating the Daughters’ Orion Chapter 130 in Boston. Maria worked in Boston public education for thirty-two years, beginning as a teacher’s assistant in the classrooms for the Greek Bilingual Program, and later achieving the position of bilingual coordinator for the Greek Bilingual Program and working as liaison and advocate between parents and schools. She later became an English as a second language tester for all non-proficient language groups for placement in proper language programs. ❖
Saint John the Baptist Boston ❖ Stathis Andreadis Stathis is a longtime member of St. John the Baptist Church in Boston, Massachusetts. Stathis was born and raised in Katerini, Greece before moving to New England. He has been a dedicated parishioner of St. John’s for over thirty years. Stathis has been a member of the parish council and has served many roles, including being of major assistance before, during, and after each of the St. John’s picnics and the annual festival. He has shown such great dedication and love for our parish, never hesitating to help in any way. He has been a valuable resource for parish operations.
Saint Catherine Braintree ❖ Alexandra Carroll Alexandra Kourtelidis Carroll was born in Thessaloniki, Greece and was raised in Giannitsa by her parents, Despina and the late Ioannis Kourtelidis. In 1976, Alexandra, along with her parents and siblings, immigrated to Roslindale, Massachusetts, where she attended one of the Boston exam schools. She then attended Boston University and graduated cum laude with a degree in mathematics. For over twenty-five years, Alexandra worked with a nonprofit in Boston as a senior market research manager, conducting research on issues related to higher education and student debt. She was a member of St. Nectarios Church for many years and there married her husband John in 1993. In 1995, they joined St. Catherine Church and baptized their three children, Patrick, Nicholas, and Arianna there. Alexandra is a proud Greek American and is deeply committed to her Greek Orthodox faith. She is an active participant in church activities, including teaching Sunday school, assisting with festivals and fundraisers, and teaching Greek school. ❖
Living in the Boston area with his wife Despina, Stathis owns and operates a restaurant in Boston’s famous South End neighborhood. Thanks to Stathis’s love for and dedication to St. John’s, numerous parishioners and their families have been able to enjoy their beloved church. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Annunciation Brockton ❖ Stefania Calogrias
Saints Constantine and Helen Cambridge ❖ Nikki Georgoulis Kalogeropoulos
Stefania was baptized and raised in the Annunciation parish in Brockton, Massachusetts. She is the daughter of Ioanna Pappas Calogrias and the late Tassos Calogrias. Stefania has been an active member in the parish from a young age. She was a member of GOYA, serving as treasurer; a dancer in the Kefi dance group; and a singer in the church choir, singing alongside her mother for as long as she can remember. After finishing her master’s degree in London, Stefania joined the Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great dance group and became active in the parish again. She returned to the choir, joining her mother and sister. She also returned to GOYA as an adviser and taught the junior dancers of the Paradosi dance group. Stefania joined the parish council in 2017, where she served as assistant treasurer. In 2018, she was elected to the office of treasurer and holds that position to this day. In addition to her role as parish council treasurer, Stefania prepares all of the church’s floral needs, especially during celebratory feast days, including the epitafios and Paschal flowers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Stefania was part of the team that live streamed all of the services while the church was closed to in-person attendance.
Nikki Georgoulis Kalogeropoulos was born in Pasalimani, Greece. She came to Boston with her family in 1970 and graduated from the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. She also attended the Electronic Computer Programming Institute. She was married to Athanasios Kalogeropoulos in 1975, with whom she has two sons, Dimitris and Pavlos. She is the proud grandmother of Zoe Kalogeropoulos. Nikki has worked for many years at the Cambridge Port Savings Bank and was the owner of the Greek Music Store in Central Square, Cambridge, from 2000 to 2003. Nikki is an active member of Sts. Constantine and Helen, serving for many years as a church volunteer, member of the parish council, and as the current president of the parish Philoptochos society. She is also involved in other philanthropic and cultural societies and offers her services as a volunteer in the town of Tewksbury, Massachusetts where she resides. ❖
Stefania’s diligent and prominent involvement in the Brockton church is rooted in her ancestry. Three generations of her family have been active members of the church—her great-grandparents, Leonidas and Agathi Pappas; her grandparents, James “Big Jim” and Pauline Pappas; and her mother, Ona. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saint George Centerville ❖ Kenneth and Christine Vancisin
Nativity of the Virgin Mary Cohasset ❖ Arianna Desilets
Christine Vancisin nee Gulish and Kenneth Vancisin, both born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, are of American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Diocese heritage. Ken received his BA from Northeastern University and his MBA from Suffolk University. Having worked in finance in Massachusetts and Connecticut, Ken, along with Christine and their two young sons, Nicholas and Alexander, moved to Cape Cod in 1988, opening an inn in historic Yarmouth Port.
Arianna and her husband are the proud parents of two of Panagia’s youngest members. As a member of the parish since she was six months old, she grew up in the community and has been an active member for many years. A former parish council member and leader of several fundraising efforts, she continues to commit herself to her faith and parish. She is currently leading efforts to encourage young families to return to church and to raise funds to complete the new community center. ❖
For Ken and Christine, the church always stood as an important part of their family life. They found a new home at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Centerville, becoming stewards. Ken and Christine are not of Greek-American heritage, but their Carpatho-Russian traditions were respected, allowing them interconnectedness with the Greek community. After several years as innkeepers, Christine, a former x-ray technologist, returned to college and earned her BS from University of Massachusetts Boston, becoming a registered nurse. She worked in nursing for over twenty-two years before retiring in 2021. A lover of music and singing, Christine has been a member of The Chatham Chorale, Inc. on Cape Cod since 1990.
Saint George Dartmouth ❖ Anthony “Tony” and Maria Chirigotis
Ken returned to working in corporate until his retirement in 2020. In his spare time, Ken enjoys a good round of golf. He is a thirty-second degree free mason and treasurer of Howard Lodge in Yarmouth. Ken and Christine have always offered their time and effort for the benefit of St. George’s church. They have served as devoted parish council members for several years. Kenneth is the former church treasurer, current assistant treasurer, and a member of the finance committee. Christine has served as Sunday school teacher, chef/cook enthusiast, and will serve as choir director after pandemic-related restrictions are no longer a concern. Ken and Christine feel deeply honored for the distinction of this Clergy-Laity Award. ❖
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Anthony and Maria Chirigotis recently celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary. They have two adult children and four grandchildren. Anthony has been a member of the parish council for over three decades, serving the parish as president, vice president, and assistant treasurer. Anthony was also a member of the building committee during the construction of St.
2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS George on Cross Road in Dartmouth. He volunteered to chair many successful church functions over the years. When called upon, he assists Fr. Harry Providakes during divine liturgy, baptisms, and funerals. Anthony could not have devoted himself to this service without the loving support of his wife, Maria. A member of the Philoptochos Society, for years Maria’s stewardship has included donating flower arrangements and decorating the holy altar and icon stand on a weekly basis. When the church did not have a janitorial service, she would volunteer, assisting in cleaning the nave, narthex, church hall, and kitchen after divine liturgy and fellowship hour. Maria would also consistently contribute to the pastries and refreshments provided during fellowship hour. Anthony and Maria continue to humbly serve their church with total love and commitment. Their dedication to St. George is greatly appreciated! ❖
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Dracut ❖ Christos and Georgiana Kotsironis Christos was born in Simopoulo, Ilia, Greece and immigrated to the United States when he was twenty-one years old. He is the son of the late Vasiliki Georgoulia and Yiorgios Kotsironis, who still resides in Simopoulo. Georgiana was born in Lowell, Massachusetts and is the daughter of Paris Koufogazos Raikos and the late George Raikos. Christos and Georgiana live in Dracut, Massachusetts and have been active members of their church community since their marriage twenty-seven years ago. They have raised three wonderful children, Angelo, Vasiliki, and Andreas, who all attended The Hellenic American Academy to learn both the Greek language and their Or-
thodox faith. Christos and Georgiana are self-employed restaurateurs and are celebrating twenty-five years of business this October. They are both active members in their community and offer financial support to many fundraising organizations in Dracut and the neighboring towns. They both feel deeply passionate about raising awareness for substance abuse, holding an annual fundraiser to support “The Herren Project” and offering scholarships for graduates of Dracut High School. Christos is a member of AHEPA Chapter 102 of Lowell, Massachusetts, and Georgiana is a member of the Dracut Rotary Club and an advisory board member of the Greater Lowell Vocational Technical High School. They have both been active members of the Assumption family since 1995, attending services regularly and serving the church in different capacities. Christos served as a board member for over ten years and Georgiana has taught Sunday school and been a member of the Philoptochos. Both of their boys served in the altar every Sunday until reaching their final years of high school and their children have volunteered with the local food pantry, communion breakfast, Christmas pageant, Sunday school, and festival fundraisers. Their faith, family, and heritage have all been instrumental in shaping who they are today. They have both made themselves available to assist the church in any way that they are able and to do so without seeking recognition. They see the role that God has had in their life together and are exceedingly thankful for their many blessings. Christos and Georgiana look forward to continuing to humbly serve their church community. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saint Luke East Longmeadow ❖ Antonia “Toni” Rizas We are pleased to nominate Antonia “Toni” Rizas as our Parishioner of the Year. A lifelong member of the choir, Toni exemplifies the wonderful characteristics that this award highlights. In 2016, after both our longtime choir director and organist retired and moved, Toni agreed to become the new choir director. She has done so much for the choir! In addition to her regular duties, she worked hard to align the music with the new liturgical translation. She has also put together a book with all English-language music that can be used for our English-language Sundays. Moreover, Toni encouraged parishioners to join in and sing during Lenten services, which has had a positive effect. She also spearheaded the inclusion of the Sunday school children in the liturgical cycle, having them sing with the choir for Sunday services on a monthly basis. As if these acts of service were not enough, she has recruited and trained four organists to help serve the parish. Some were students, who have since developed an appreciation for Orthodox liturgical music. A mother of two and grandmother of two, Toni believes strongly in cross-generational bonds, as parents and grandparents raise their children in the church and introduce them at a young age to our liturgy and services. As Toni notes, she has learned so much of our faith through the hymns but is also thankful to be able to help. According to her, “it’s my contribution to help the parish priest with the liturgy.”
Greece” festival, as well as other ministry events. She is dedicated to service. Her kindness, enthusiasm, patience, and love for others make Toni a worthy recipient of the Laity Award! ❖
Saint Demetrios Fall River ❖ Evangelos S. Giotis (posthumously) Evangelos was born on February 24, 1938 in Ioannina, Greece and relocated with his wife Panagiota and two sons to Worcester, Massachusetts on February 1976. He and his family ultimately settled in Fall River a few months later and joined the parish of St. Demetrios. He attended services as often as he could and insisted that his wife and boys attend as well. His work schedule did not allow him to participate in the parish as he wished, but he was always there to support the parish in any way that he could. Upon his retirement, he applied his strong work ethic to supporting all parish activities. He was dedicated, committed, and humble in his service to Christ and the church. Evangelos graciously gave up his time to prepare for and tirelessly work at the annual church festival and monthly parish brunches. By joining the parish council, he found an additional way to support his beloved parish. He was always there to support others in any parish need. An active parishioner of St. Demetrios for over forty years, Evangelos inspired others to follow in his footsteps. ❖
Toni’s contributions to the parish also extend beyond the choir. She is a regular participant in our annual “Taste of
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Holy Trinity Fitchburg ❖ James “Jim” Idaris Jim Idaris would like to thank Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Fr. Paul, and the parish council for this award. James Idaris was born in 1957 in Epirus, Greece. He was born to his father and mother, Gregory and Anthoula Idaris. In 1968, his family immigrated to the United States. He went to Worcester Trade and became a mechanical draftsman. Shortly after, he decided to enter into the restaurant business and real estate investment. He met his wife, Julie Idaris, and married her in 1993. They have three beautiful children. During this time, he was an active member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. He held many offices, including President of the parish council, vice president, and chairman of the annual Grecian festival. By cooking ninety percent of the meals at the church, he showed his love of service to others. After receiving this award, James plans on continuing on being an active member of his church’s community. ❖
Holy Apostles Saints Peter and Paul Haverhill ❖ Eleni Lambropoulos Eleni was born and raised in Pentalofos, Greece and immigrated to the United States in 1989. She graduated from Northern Essex Community College, from which she received her associate’s degree in computer and information sciences. As a faithful steward of Holy Apostles, Eleni has taught the Greek language in the church’s Greek school for the last twenty-four years— her students adore her! Eleni also continues to work diligently for the church’s annual festival. You can always find her making delicious loukoumades. Eleni is married to Haralambos Lambropoulos, and they have a daughter, Christina. Eleni loves to travel, and each summer finds her and her family exploring Europe and spending time in her hometown village of Pentalofos. Whether she is teaching in the classroom, needleworking, cooking, or traveling, Eleni is always willing to give her time, talent, and treasure to her Haverhill community, assisting in any way she can and striving for excellence in everything that she does. Eleni thanks Holy Apostles of Haverhill for bestowing this memorable honor upon her. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Holy Trinity Holyoke ❖ Demetrios “Deme” Panteleakis
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Ipswich ❖ Eleanor “Ellie” Galanis Todd
Demetrios Panteleakis is president of OLYMPUS Construction Group, which is the construction division for Waypoint Residential, a vertically integrated investor with over five billion dollars in total capitalization. OLYMPUS is engaged in the development and construction of over fifteen projects in seven states across the sunbelt and has offices in Boca Raton, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Dallas.
As a fourth-generation parishioner, Ellie has been a lifelong member of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church in Ipswich. The importance of worship and church life remain strong through her involvement in Sunday school, Greek school, GOYA, and the choir. Growing up immersed in the church, Ellie was fortunate to develop lifelong friendships and roots. She was married in the church and her two daughters, Christina and Maria, were baptized at Assumption. As a middle school teacher, it was only natural to become a Sunday school teacher when her daughters entered school. As a GOYA advisor, she traveled with our young goyans to California on two occasions and chaperoned multiple ski trips under the leadership of our beloved Fr. John Govostes. Most rewarding were the GOYA trips to the philoxenia house to visit with the children, sing Christmas carols, and deliver gifts.
Mr. Panteleakis was born in Hartford, Connecticut, and moved to Greece as a child, living in Athens with his family during the rule of the Greek junta. Although returning to New England in 1973, Mr. Panteleakis is Maniot from Inner Mani and still in possession of his family home and ancestral lands, which he visits several times a year with his wife Erin and his four children Hannah, Nikolaos, Kyriakos, and Petros. He holds a J.D. from Western New England University School of Law, an M.S. from American International College, a B.S. from Western New England University, and a Certificate of Real Estate Financing from Boston University. ❖
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Her tireless work on the centennial album is one of her greatest accomplishments. Ellie can always be seen volunteering at the festival with her entire family, including her grandson, Leo. She is also a member of the Melissa Society. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ellie played a key role in streaming church services. Currently, she serves on the parish council as vice president and also the council liaison to the Hellenic center committee. In her own words, “I am so proud that my daughter Christina serves on the parish council. I feel so blessed to be part of this community and I look forward to the next chapter with Fr. Chris Kolentsas. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saint Nicholas Lexington ❖ Alexa Gabriele Vafiades Alexa Gabriele Vafiades has regularly attended St. Nicholas in Lexington since she was an infant. Growing up, Alexa attended Sunday school, was a member of JOY and GOYA, and annually participated in the oratorical festival. During high school, she started the parish bookstore and book club. She also attended Ionian Village, and her strong interest in the faith led her to attend CrossRoad at HCHC. She remained active on the alumni advisory board for four years, became a CrossRoad ambassador, and worked for the Office of Vocation and Ministry to support the program. Alexa was a member of the festival committee and a key contributor to the “Taste of Greece” festivals. During elementary school, she started work on the grills and worked her way up to running workshops, assisting in managing the kitchen, and setting up and operating the point of sale system. Alexa became more involved in the church after she graduated from high school, teaching Sunday school, running GOYA, and organizing the parish oratorical festival. Wanting to participate more, she began studying Byzantine chant and now chants services regularly. Alexa joined Philoptochos and the executive board. She served as vice president for one term and is currently in her second term as president. In addition, she is serving her second term on the Metropolis of Boston Philoptochos board. She also enjoys co-chairing the flower ministry, decorating icons throughout the year and the kouvouklion for Good Friday. Alexa is excited to be working on the Thriving Congregations Initiative as the parish champion. She is a staff member at Metropolis of Boston Camp and attends “Orthodoxy on Tap” events throughout the metropolis. Re-
cently, she started dancing with the Sons and Daughters of Alexander the Great dance group. Alexa shows her love for Christ and the church in many ways. ❖
Holy Trinity Lowell ❖ Dr. George P. and Ritsa (Bakelas) Meltsakos The Holy Trinity Hellenic Orthodox Church of Lowell, Massachusetts has selected Dr. George and Ritsa Meltsakos as the 2022 recipients of the Metropolis of Boston Ministry Award. George and Ritsa and their sons, Panagiotis and Evangelos, have been an active part of Holy Trinity for over twenty-five years. George immigrated to the United States with his family in 1969, settling in Haverhill, Massachusetts. He graduated from Merrimack College and the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki School of Medicine, completing his residency in internal medicine at Shadyside Hospital Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Since 1990, he worked at hospitals in the Greater Lowell area, serving as Saints Medical Center chief of staff before its merger with Lowell General Hospital. George has a vital parish council member for several terms. With his input, direction, and guidance, Holy Trinity and the Hellenic-American Academy have safely navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. In 1996, George married Ritsa Bakelas. A registered nurse, she oversees the medical office’s operations. Ritsa is a longtime member of the Philoptochos and volunteer at the Hellenic American Academy. In 2008, Ritsa and Susan Potamitis directed our Sunday school children in the Passion of Christ Easter play. The production featured an ornate, Byzantine-style table; vibrant costumes; and an elaborate backdrop. (continued)
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS (Dr. & Mrs. Meltsakos continued) Their sons, Panayiotis and Evangelos, reflect the generosity and service instilled by their parents’ examples. Both attended the Hellenic-American Academy, are members of the Sons of Pericles Lowell Chapter, and assist during church services and community functions. Panayiotis, who is a graduate of Suffolk University, DJs at our annual Greek festival and golf tournament. Evangelos, who is currently attending Merrimack College, is a member of the Metropolis of Boston dance group. Holy Trinity is honored to have George and Ritsa represent our parish! ❖
Saint George Lowell ❖ Stilyanne Pappas Stilyanne Pappas was born in Greece and came to the United States when her family immigrated here when she was just two years old. Shortly after their arrival, her father joined the US Army and the family moved many times as her father served our country. She lived in many states and several American bases overseas such as in Puerto Rico and in France. She says that although they moved often, they always managed to find an Orthodox Church where ever they were and she always found comfort attending and hearing the Greek Orthodox services. As an adult, she settled in Lowell, Massachusetts and became a member of the St. George Community for many years. Stilyanne continues to serve the church in many ways to this day. She is in attendance at every Sunday Liturgy, coming early to set up for the coffee hour in the community hall. She is the first one to volunteer to help clean or decorate whenever needed. On Saturdays and various weekdays she can be found in the church, either sweeping, cleaning or straightening things out to prepare
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for Liturgies or special weekday services. During this past Holy Week she practically lived in the church from morning to evening making sure everything was “just right.” She has also served as a reader from time to time. You could say that she is like a modern day “myrrhophora,” following the Lord, rising early and making her way to meet the Lord offering, instead of myrrh, her gift of service and praise. We are blessed to have her at St. George. “ Well done good and faithful servant!” ( Matt 25:23). Axia!
Transfiguration Lowell ❖ Father John and Presvytera Panayiota (Patty) Vaporis Deacon John’s father, Fr. Nomikos Michael Vaporis, and his mother, Presbytera Mary Marantis Vaporis, fostered love of the church and its holy teachings while living in Brookline, Massachusetts on the campus of Hellenic College Holy Cross (HCHC). As a young man, John would assist his father on Sunday mornings. Panayiota was also raised by devout Orthodox Christian parents, Dr. Peter and Dorothea Danas, who were faithful stewards of Assumption Church in Lowell. A match made in heaven, John Vaporis and Panayiota Danas married in 1986. After a tragic fire struck Assumption Church, John and Panayiota Vaporis were looking for a church to baptize their baby son Nomikos. In 1999, John, Panayiota, Nomikos, and their young daughter, Dorathea, came to Transfiguration Church. In 2013, Metropolitan Methodios ordained John Vaporis a deacon. Dn. John tirelessly serves the Metropolis with love and compassion. Dn. John has been instrumental in the organization of the Deaconate Program and the formation of its candidates
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS at HCHC. With parents as exemplary Orthodox Christian role models, Dn. John and Panayiota raised their children with faith and love. In 2013, Panayiota found her calling at the chanter’s stand under the tutelage of Fr. Gregory Floor (at that time, a seminarian), our newly assigned priest at Transfiguration. Their daughter, Kosmia, has joined her mother at the chanters stand and sons Nomikos and Roman are often altar servers throughout the week. Their eldest daughter, Dorethea, had their first child baptized Leonida at Transfiguration. Through all the trials and tribulations of life, Dn. John, Dna. Panayiota, and their children have worked tirelessly and unselfishly for the church. We would like to thank the Vaporis family for their unwavering love and continuous service to our parish as committed servants of Christ and His Holy Church.
Saint George Lynn ❖ Parthenope “Penny” Athanasopoulos Penny was born In Lynn, Massachusetts to Anna and the late Michael Tsaparlis. After the passing of her father, her mother became the pillar of the family and instilled strong Christian values in her brother Nicholas and her. She started teaching Sunday school at fourteen and continued to do so for forty-three years. For a period of time, she was also the athletic director of the St. George girls’ basketball program. In 1986, she received her bachelor’s in elementary education from Suffolk University and went on to teach at a Christian school. In 1991, Penny married her husband Nicholas, and they were blessed with two daughters, Stella and Anna, who both went on to become nurse practitioners.
As she continued her service at St. George, she coordinated the Christmas pageant and junior myrrhbearers. She served on the Parent Teach Association board and Philoptochos and volunteered at the festival. Penny also has a passion for decorating Paschal lambeths that benefit the Caring and Sharing Program, which serves underprivileged families in the community. During her thirties, Penny was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Despite her disability, she continues to do the Lord’s work. The St. George community, including Fr. George, allowed her to put her talents towards working with children in the community. Currently, she works as a Greek medical interpreter in various healthcare facilities. Penny thanks and praises the Lord for the strength to continue to face life’s challenges and hopes to continue to keep the Orthodox faith alive for future generations. ❖
Saint Gregory the Theologian Mansfield ❖ Theodore “Ted” and Maria Chingris Ted and Maria Chingris are longstanding, faithful parishioners of St. Gregory Church. They are truly beloved by our parish family and exemplify what it means to be loving parishioners and stewards. They have, first and foremost, always kept worship at the center of their lives and been highly involved in the ministries and programs of the parish. When there is a need at St. Gregory, they are always there. To highlight just several of their efforts, Ted served as the St. Gregory Golf Tournament chair for many years, held office on the parish council for several terms, and offered his services as groundskeeper for our substantial parish (continued)
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS (Theodore and Maria Chingris continued) property. In addition, he has often blessed us with his excellent musical ability at taverna nights and other parish celebrations—a tremendous offering of time and talent. Maria has offered much time and energy to our Philoptochos ministry and put her stellar baking talents to work for the benefit of many parish endeavors. As a truly dynamic duo, Ted and Maria have been co-chairs for the annual Mansfield Family Fun Night event and coordinators for our yard sale, both vital fundraisers and community events for our parish. The ministries and programs of St. Gregory have been greatly enhanced by both Ted and Maria over the years. Through their many gifts, generosity, and strong desire to serve, they have made a mark on the hearts of our faithful parishioners and modeled an exemplary path towards a life in Christ for the stewards of St. Gregory. We could not be prouder of Ted and Maria, and we thank them for their commitment to Christ’s church! ❖
Saints Anargyroi Marlborough ❖ James John “J.J.” Liatsos
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also serves as a parish technical coordinator. Well before the Covid-19 shutdown, J.J. became involved in the updating of our computer and internet systems. Once our church services went to online-only in 2020, J.J quickly figured out how to implement livestreaming. He continued to make incremental improvements to the parish’s online experience. He also coordinates outdoor movie nights at the church and volunteers at and manages our annual Greek festival. ❖
Annunciation Newburyport ❖ Ronald “Ron” Ramseur Ronald Ramseur grew up in Norfolk, Virginia. His career encompassed thirty-three years as a civilian employee for the United States government at the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia and the United States Army installation at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Later, Ron volunteered as a mechanic, assisting people with vehicle repairs at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, DC.
J.J. Liatsos grew up in the Annunciation parish in Brockton, Massachusetts. He was a Metropolis of Boston Camp (MBC) camper in 1990, the camp’s inaugural year. An important part of the camp experience is developing parish leaders; J.J. progressed from camper to longtime staff member to dedicated parish council member and church volunteer, and he is excited to have children who now attend MBC.
Ron eventually settled in the Great Barrington area of the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, where he became the sole caregiver for his dear friend, Lucille, for five years until her passing in December, 2015, from dementia. Subsequently, he moved to Newburyport and served at St. Basil’s Kitchen, the parish’s meal ministry.
In 2005, J.J. and his wife Barbara moved to central Massachusetts. Since then he has been a steward, parish council member and officer, and volunteer at Sts. Anargyroi. He
Since then, Ron has offered inspiring service to our Lord, learning Byzantine chant and serving Fr. Popescu for virtually all services and sacraments. On top of this service, he is
Deeply grieving Lucille, Ron spent prayerful time alone in the church, slowly beginning to attend divine liturgies. Under Fr. Costin Popescu’s guidance, Ron began to participate in services and became a catechumen, culminating in his chrismation on May 15, 2016—the Feast of the Myrrh Bearing Women and his birthday—taking the name Nathaniel. We are blessed to have him in our church family.
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS indispensable to our parish life, cooking the best rice for our festivals and regularly bringing pastries from Panera for our coffee hour. His keen observations, unique sense of humor, fierce independence, and stylish dressing lift our spirits. Ron is well-known around Newburyport, always greeting people with a smile and a kind word. His cheerful and empathetic demeanor is always evident, whether in brightening someone’s morning by handing them a flower, composing a poem for a distraught friend, or simply listening to someone who is having a tough day. Ron is a living witness to God’s lovingkindness. AXIOS!!! ❖
Saint Vasilios Peabody ❖ Konstantinos “Kosta” Antoniou Kosta and his parents, Antonios and Alexandra, joined St. Vasilios parish after immigrating to the United States from Australia in 1969. Like many families in Peabody’s Greek community, they settled near the church, creating an involved and integral presence at St. Vasilios. As a youngster, Kosta inherited his parents’ dedication to the church. He volunteered at church functions, attended Greek school, served in the altar, and played for the St. Vasilios basketball team. Kosta graduated from Boston College in 1987 and credits cherished mentors and highly involved parishioners for his ongoing participation at St. Vasilios. He cites Fr. Andrew Demotses, Steve Stephanides, Steve Kalivas, and, most especially, his wonderful wife Bonnie as shining examples of guidance and stewardship. When Kosta’s daughter Alexandra joined the St. Vasilios “Hoops” basketball program, it was another opportunity to get involved. Kosta went on to coach and become league co-director alongside his good friend Steve Stephanides.
Kosta has served the parish council as vice president and treasurer. He has played been active on various committees, currently serving on the communications committee. Kosta also takes pride in his membership in and former presidency of the St. Vasilios Men’s Club. The Club’s support of the parish’s youth is of particular importance to him. Kosta and the Club’s collective work has benefitted GOYA, Hoops, Greek school, and Sunday school. Kosta and the Club also participate at the annual picnic, festival, and other initiatives including the St. Vasilios Kitchen. Kosta values the opportunity to forge friendships and collaborate with others. He participates in the parish golf outing, winter dance, Peabody’s international festival, and other events. He is an altruist, believing that what is given is surpassed by the blessings received. Kosta remains vital to the St. Vasilios and Peabody communities, living in the city with his wife and daughter. ❖
Saint Nectarios Roslindale ❖ Dimitrios “Dimitri” Stamoulis Dimitri was born in the small village of Valaora in the region of Evritania, Greece to parents, Konstantinos and Chrisanthi Stamoulis. He is the third of ten siblings. Before starting his restaurant business in the United States, Dimitri worked as a mechanical engineer for the company, Izola, in Athens. In 1993, Dimitri and his wife, Evangelia, started their family in Millis, Massachusetts. Shortly thereafter, they became part of the St. Nectarios community. (continued)
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS (Dimitrios Stamoulis continued) Dimitri and Evangelia’s three children—Chrisanthi, Eleni, and Konstantinos—all graduated from the St. Nectarios Greek school. Through the years, Dimitri has been an upstanding member of the St. Nectarios parish. He served on the parish council for several years and has volunteered at countless events. You can always find him in the kitchen cooking and preparing meals; many times you can even find him singing to entertain the kitchen crew. Not only has he volunteered his time to help out at events, but also, whenever anyone needs anything, even when they are from other parishes, he is just a phone call away, always doing his best to help. Dimitri is a wonderful role model for his family and the community. ❖
Dormition of the Virgin Mary Somerville ❖ Anargyros “Narge” Sparages Anargyros James “Narge” Sparages has been a lifelong member of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church in Somerville, Massachusetts from the time his parents, James and Dimitra, brought him there to be baptized. Narge married his lovely wife, Margaret Mary “Margy” Holland, in 2005. Growing up in the church, he attended Greek school and Sunday school, was a member of GOYA and the basketball team, and helped at the annual festivals. He taught Sunday school for several years, was the church organist for over a decade, served on the parish council for four years, holding the office of treasurer for three of those years. For the church’s 100th anniversary, he served on the fundraising ministry and as the editor-in-chief for the 100th Anniversary album. Narge has served on the strategic planning committee and is serving on both the stewardship and
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finance committees. He also leads the reconciliation committee and the Thriving Congregations Initiative for the parish. Narge and Margy are humbled and grateful for the recognition, as Narge could not have served the church without Margy’s support. ❖
Saint George Cathedral Springfield ❖ Joseph “Joe” Spano Joe Spano is both honored and humbled to be the recipient of this year’s Ministry Award. He was raised in the Greek Orthodox community from Sunday school age through his early twenties until a rigorous evening work schedule began to cut into his ability to maintain weekly worship. His drift away from weekly attendance did not last long, however, and his inspiration to return peaked when his aunt asked, “Joseph, don’t you think you should be attending church more often?”. She was the catalyst that Joe needed to reprioritize his life and to put church first. Since then, he has been regular with his attendance, not only on Sundays, but also during special weekday and evening services, and he can say without hesitation that he is extremely gratified to have made this change in his life. The community also witnessed Joe’s transformation, with many suggesting that he would be a good fit for serving on the parish council. After some hesitation, he did eventually accept the challenge and has happily served as a council member for the past eleven years. He has learned a great deal about the complexities and intricacies of what it takes to support a large organization like St. George Cathedral. The biggest takeaway for him has been the truly critical importance of teamwork. It takes everyone to lend a hand,
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS especially during fund raising events. For Joe, being heavily invested in the church makes it feel like he has a second family. But there is no greater feeling than to know why one serves–for God. Joe is blessed to have such great people and functions and a great priest in his life. ❖
Taxiarchae Watertown ❖ Ernest “Ernie” and Loretta (posthumously) Anastos Ernest Anastos was born in Queens, New York, the only child of Peter and Else Herrmann Anastos. He was baptized Anastassi in the Greek Orthodox Church in Corona, Queens. Loretta Hasapidis was born in Waltham, Massachusetts, the youngest of three children of George and Georgia Gargilis Hasapidis and was a lifelong participant in the life of the Taxiarchae Church. Her parents were longtime parishioners and supporters of the church.
parish council from 1974-1977, serving as recording secretary and then membership secretary. Ernest and Loretta became godparents of the Taxiarchae Church, when it was consecrated in November 1998. In 2001, their daughter Laura married Christopher Taylor in the Taxiarchae Church. Their two daughters, Alexandra and Anastasia, were baptized in 2008 and 2013 respectively. Loretta was four-time chairperson of the annual Grecian festival from 2003-2008 and led each one to still greater profitability despite having non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma for the last three. After retiring from Raytheon in 2002, Ernest was elected to the parish council from 2004 to 2010, serving as treasurer and assistant treasurer. Upon Ernie’s retirement from the parish council in 2010, the board made him an honorary lifetime parish council member. At the urging of several board members Ernie again became an elected parish council board member from 2013 to 2015. On behalf of his late wife Loretta and himself, Ernie is humbled and appreciative for being selected for this year’s Parishioner of the Year Award and thanks the Taxiarchae community for this honor. ❖
After graduating from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn with a bachelor of electrical engineering in 1955, Ernest moved to Boston to begin a forty-seven-and-a-halfyear career in military electronics. The Taxiarchae Church became his spiritual home in 1967 when he married the love of his life, Loretta Hasapidis. Their two daughters, Christine and Laura, were baptized at Taxiarchae. Ernest became involved with the Sunday school program in the early 70s at the suggestion of George Haralampu, the Sunday school director. Ernest was a member of the
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saints Constantine and Helen Webster ❖ Nikefore “Nick” Popiak Nick Popiak is a lifelong member of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Webster, Massachusetts. He was baptized in the original church building on High Street and watched the new church being built right down the road from his house on Lake Parkway. He remembers helping his uncle, Vaso, who was the church treasurer, count donations when he was a young teenager in the 1960s. Perhaps this experience foreshadowed Nick’s service as parish council treasurer for the past fifteen years. Since 2006, Nick has offered his time gratis to take care of the church grounds. He loves working in the church yard, doing whatever is needed. He is also the first one at orthros, worshipping God at weekday services and on every Sunday. He has attended the parish bible study for many years. He helps out at the annual festival and other church activities. Nick is a regular volunteer, often leading the cleanup committee at the monthly “Living Bread” luncheon, an event dedicated to serving meals to the larger Webster community. He also sets a great example for other parishioners, volunteering with Meals on Wheels. He always notes how his faith gives deep meaning to his life and how the church has helped him find purpose and direction. Nick loves his church dearly and loves giving his time in serving the church. ❖
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Saint Demetrios Weston ❖ Pamela “Pam” Laganas Brody Pam is sincerely honored and humbled to be recognized by her St. Demetrios church family. Pam is one of five children and was raised in Lowell with a family that instilled a strong upbringing of service to others. As a youngster, she attended the Hellenic American Academy Greek School in Lowell, Massachusetts, where Fr. George Karahalios made a huge impact on her younger years. Pam has an undergraduate degree in teaching children with disabilities and a master’s in special education and as a school psychologist. Pam taught children with disabilities for many years, including a specialized reading program. In 1981, she married her husband Bob and raised three children, Benjamin, Jennifer, and Zachary. They lived in North Tewksbury and attended St. Constantine and Helen Church in Andover, MA, where Fr. George Karahalios baptized Benjamin and Jennifer. In 1988, they moved to Lafayette, California, and attended Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Oakland, California. Missing family and friends, they moved back in 1996, finally settling in Weston, Massachusetts. Soon after, their family became members of St. Demetrios Church. Pam’s love and commitment to the church is evident through her charitable work, volunteering time and effort to many events. Church is her second home, where God has brought amazing parishioners to meet, greet, and pray. Pam has made so many friends—an extension of her family. She embraces the church for worship, fellowship, and ministry.
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS After the tragic loss of her son Benjamin (age twenty) in 2004, Fr. Nick Krommydas was a source of strength to the family, guiding them through the unbearable grief and helping them navigate a difficult process. Her daughter, Jennifer, is a reading specialist and teaches children with disabilities. Zachary is a rising musician and educator.
Annunciation Woburn ❖ Angeliki “Kiki” Kolokithas Born on the beautiful Island of Zakynthos, Greece, Kiki came to the United States in 1975.
Pam has been a member of St. Christine’s Chapter since 2000, holding various positions on the board since 2006. She has been the ministry leader for the Hellenic nursing home for over ten years and plays bingo monthly with the residents. Pam has also coordinated the community fellowship coffee hour every Sunday since 2014. In addition, she has chaired our chapters’ annual lamb raffle and catering program since 2015. One of Pam’s favorite monthly events is making and selling loukoumades during coffee hour. In 2018, Pam and her daughter, Jennifer, co-chaired the Philoptochos’s most successful fundraiser, an event with the comedian Basile. Over 250 people attended. Through her enthusiasm and commitment, the impact Pam has made on our church community has been tremendous. She has positively affected our members by showing them love and compassion. She is always present and willing to help with her time. Pam’s greatest joy is being a Yiayia to her three-year-old twin granddaughters, Eva and Ella. ❖
A Greek school teacher since 1982, Kiki enjoys teaching very much and adores all of her students from the youngest to the oldest. She has taught all levels of Greek school from preschool to seventh grade as well as adult classes at both the parishes of Annunciation in Woburn and St. Athanasius in Arlington. Kiki currently serves as the director of the Annunciation Greek school. This school is especially near and dear to her heart; Kiki stepped in to help restart the Greek school program in 2013 with only five students: today the Greek school at Annunciation is thriving with over seventy students. Kiki served on the board and as president for the Greek Teachers Association of the Metropolis of Boston for many years. Kiki lives in Burlington with her husband George. Kiki and her family are all members of the Annunciation parish of Woburn, Massachusetts. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients MASSACHUSETTS Saint Spyridon Cathedral Worcester ❖ George and Helen Panagiotopoulos St. Spyridon in Worcester is proud to nominate George and Helen Panagiotopoulos for the Ministry Award this year, both having served fifty years in ministry. George was born in Greece and came to the United States in 1958 to attend and graduate from Holy Cross Theological School in Brookline. He taught with Helen for five years in the Greek school and Sunday school. He also managed his uncle’s restaurant. At the same time, George assisted Fr. Solon Tsandikos with his sacramental ministry. In 1972, George went into the pizza business, a restauranteur until his retirement in 2001. He was very involved with the
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Grecian festivals from 1980-2004 as a buyer and food coordinator and continues to work the grill at parish events. George served as a parish council member for over ten years. Presently, George chants in church on Sundays and at all weekday liturgies. George and Helen met at a church dance and married in 1969. They have a daughter, Nicole, and a son, Peter, and are blessed with twin grandsons, Nicholas and Michael. Helen was born in Worcester. Her parents instilled in her a love and appreciation for the Orthodox faith and heritage. Graduating from Worcester Public Schools, she went to Anna Maria College, majoring in elementary education, and received a master’s degree from Lesley College. Helen was a beloved kindergarten teacher in Worcester, where she was known as “Mrs. Pan.” She retired in 2009. She presently serves on the board of the Philoptochos. As faithful parishioners, they both tirelessly assist with ministry to this day, dedicating their time and talent in any capacity that is asked of them. Both serve monthly in the church’s feeding ministry to the needy. George and Helen are humbled and honored to be selected for the Ministry Award this year. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients NEW HAMPSHIRE Holy Trinity Concord ❖ Christopher Condodemetraky Chris and his family joined the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Concord, New Hampshire shortly after moving to the area in 2004. After a year, Chris joined the parish council and accepted several three-year terms as treasurer. He cherishes being a part of the Holy Trinity family for eighteen years. He has encouraged his family to stay active and is proud to have his children growing and thriving in the church as acolytes and frequent readers. When Chris was struck with pancreatic cancer in 2018, he was overcome by and grateful for the amazing support he received from his church family, especially through the Philoxenia House in Boston, Massachusetts. Since his return to health, Chris has not only rejoined the parish council, serving as the assistant treasurer, but has also been jumping in to help wherever he can. It is a great honor for Holy Trinity parish to acknowledge Chris’s contributions, both major and minor, as they have helped make our church a true family. ❖
Annunciation Dover ❖ Kimon & Paraskevula “Vula” Lalas Our parish has chosen Kimon and Vula Lalas as recipients of the 2022 Laity Award for the Annunciation parish in Dover, New Hampshire. We honor their devotion, dedication, and longstanding service to our parish. Kimon, a Dover native, grew up attending our church and has been an active parishioner ever since. In the past, he had served as assistant basketball coach for GOYA. Kimon runs the festival food line every year and plays an important role on our parish council, where his insight and institutional memory have proven invaluable. He can often be found behind the scenes, attending to maintenance issues. Vula has served as parish council treasurer on several occasions in the past, each time contributing exceptionally to the church’s financial vitality. Since her time as treasurer, Vula has continued to serve as a vital resource for her successors, training new treasurers and providing practical, intelligent answers on any matter of church finance. Vula played an essential role in helping our parish withstand the COVID-19 pandemic by spearheading the drive to utilize the financial subsidies provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act , ultimately saving the church thousands of dollars during a difficult time. Vula chairs many festival raffles, supports the annual decoration of the epitaphion, and manages and updates the stock of the parish bookstore. The Lalas family continues to be a major force in our parish’s growth and well-being. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients NEW HAMPSHIRE Saint George Keene ❖ Louis “Lou” Nicholas Kolivas
Saint Nicholas Manchester ❖ Michael “Mike” Poulios
Louis Nicholas Kolivas is a lifelong member of St. George in Keene, New Hampshire. He has served on the parish council for over forty years, holding the positions of president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer on multiple occasions. Mr. Kolivas is also the chartered organization representative and assistant scoutmaster of Troop 18, a seventy-five year old Scouts BSA troop sponsored by St. George. Mr. Kolivas was the first scout in New Hampshire to earn the Alpha Omega Religious Award for scouts of the Orthodox faith. ❖
Michael Poulios was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire. His family have been members of the St. Nicholas community for over seventy years. To this day, Michael and his parents have homes within a five-minute walk of the parish, as do many of the children and grandchildren of the original church members. Growing up in the parish, Michael has served in numerous capacities over the years. He was the longest standing parish council president in recent history, and has served on several vital committees–festival /picnic, strategic planning, Holy Week organization, fundraising events, parish yard sales, church/church yard beautification projects, youth events, finance committee, and others. Michael has also served as the sub-committee chair, and has been a community builder, new members greeter, and reliable church member for those who need someone to talk to. He is generous with his time and talents and does all that he can to support his spiritual home. Michael has been a worthy candidate for this honor for many years but has always requested not to be the recipient. He consistently highlights what other church members offer and emphasizes others in all that he does. It was because of this humility that the parish decided unanimously that Michael must be honored this year. On behalf of our entire parish, past and present members alike, we are proud to offer Michael’s name as our parish honoree. He is known in all three communities as a friendly face, a wonderful man, and a true Orthodox Christian. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients NEW HAMPSHIRE Assumption of the Virgin Mary Manchester ❖ Demetrios George Folopoulos Demetrios George Folopoulos was born and raised in Haverhill, Massachusetts and is the eldest son of George Folopoulos and the late Irene (Kitsopoulos) Folopoulos. Known to most as “James/ Jim”, he was named after his grandfather, Demetrios (James) Kitsopoulos, who served, for decades, as a sexton at the Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church in Haverhill. From a young age, Jim followed in his grandfather’s footsteps, serving as an altar boy at his Haverhill parish. Jim was also a boy scout in Haverhill, and, in the early seventies, received the Alpha Omega Award, which was presented to him by Archbishop Iakovos of Blessed Memory. In the late 1970’s, Jim met the love of his life, Martha Pappas, and they married in May 1979 at Assumption of the Virgin Mary Church in Manchester, New Hampshire. Since then, Jim has served as a faithful, dedicated steward of the Assumption Church. He began his service at his new parish when the parish priest at that time, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Gamvas, asked Jim to assist in the altar during Holy Week. Soon after, Jim became an instrumental volunteer at Assumption’s annual “Greekfest,” as well as at many other fundraising events. Along with his many other church duties, Jim is known as the parish candelanaftis, a role which he takes great pride in, as it reminds him of his Papou, who also served as such for years. Subsequently, Jim was elected to the Assumption parish council. He served as parish president and currently serves as vice president. Jim’s love of and dedication to the church is evident every Sunday, as he is first to arrive at church by 7:30 am and diligently and respectfully prepares the church and narthex for services.
Jim and his wife of forty-three years, Martha, have two children, Mark and Elizabeth, and four grandchildren, Sophia, Loukas, Kalliope, and Maximos, all of whom are active members of Assumption. Aside from his love of church, Jim’s greatest blessing is his family, especially his grandchildren. Jim is a shining example of a dedicated steward of the Orthodox Church. Axios! ❖
Saint George Cathedral Manchester ❖ John Stavropoulos John is the one the parish calls upon to help in the kitchen. Raised in Peabody, Massachusetts, John was brought up in the St. Vasilios Cathedral family. Unfortunately, John lost his father at an early age. With a strong work ethic, he put himself through college by working in restaurants and supermarkets. After graduating from Northeastern, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. He rose through the ranks and ended his career at the rank of Captain. After leaving the military, he resumed his work in the food service industry. In 1978, John moved with his wife and three children to Manchester, New Hampshire. He was able to realize his dream of having his own restaurant. When he sold the restaurant, he devoted more time to his beloved St. George and renewed old friendships at St. Val’s. He even served as president of the Men’s Club at St. Val’s, driving back and forth to meetings and events. He is vice president of the St. George board of directors. He has also been involved in the Manchester AHEPA Chapter. John has been a regular supporter of the church’s annual glendi for many years. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients NEW HAMPSHIRE Saint Philip Nashua ❖ Donald Lebrun
Saint Vasilios Newport ❖ Christos Vasilios Georgitsis
Don Lebrun was born in Baltimore, Maryland and found his way to New England as part of a baseball program. It was in New England that he met his future wife, Marci Kostoulakos, and began to become involved in St. Philip Greek Orthodox Church in 2000. It was at St. Philip that Don found a home and support from parishioners, namely, George Papadopoulos, George Betsis, and Charlie Paskaley, who made him feel very comfortable very quickly. Before he knew it, Don was deeply involved in the various ministries of the parish and felt very much a part of the church. Despite not being an Orthodox Christian, Don remained deeply rooted in the life of the community for the next twenty years. He was always found helping with every facet of the church festival, from cooking, baking, and serving, to everything in between.
Alexander is a senior at Hanover High School in New Hampshire and has been a member of St. Vasilios parish since 2004. He has served as an altar boy since 2018. Alexander was born in Boston in 2003 and moved to Hanover, New Hampshire in 2004. From a very young age he showed a great interest in sports and became a passionate athlete. In high school he has played varsity soccer and tennis and was blessed to be named captain for both varsity teams this year. He also won the Sportsmanship award for varsity soccer this past fall.
Under the guidance of Fr. Alexander Chetsas, Don joined the Orthodox Church through baptism in 2014. With his newfound involvement in the sacramental life of the church, Don further embraced his ability to serve the community through the parish council, a commitment that he takes quite seriously. Don is an example to the other council members in his punctuality and professionalism. In 2020, Don contracted COVID-19, which kept him from his near constant post in the narthex. Despite his health struggles, Don has continued to attend services when he can, even sneaking to the candle stand for a few minutes to welcome parishioners or hold the door open as clergy cense the church.
Another one of Alexander’s great loves is going to Greece to visit his family. He has been to Greece every summer since he was born, developing an especially strong bond with his yiayia. She was a big Panathinaikos soccer fan, spending many hours together with Alexander, watching soccer games as well as playing games. He loves going the beach and eating many gyros! Alexander is also an avid baker- a skill which he learned from his mother. They have been baking together since he was young and one of their favorites is making tsoureki at Easter. Alexander is graduating high school this year and is looking forward to attending IMG Tennis Academy in the Fall, where he hopes to hone his tennis and academic skills in order to gain a tennis scholarship to college. ❖
The Orthodox Church has given Don the vehicle to be united with our Lord Jesus Christ—a vehicle that he had searched for throughout his whole life. He is thankful for the various ways that the Orthodox Church and the parish of St. Philip have supported and guided him over the years. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients NEW HAMPSHIRE Saint Nicholas Portsmouth ❖ Barbara Pamboukes Barbara Cass Pamboukes is honored to receive the 2022 Laity Award offered by the parish of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The parish has recognized Barbara for her many years of dedication to the parish, particularly with respect to her volunteer work as a member of the Hellenic Cultural Society and as manager of the Jarvis Center, the parish’s community hall.
to organize a team of medical professionals within the St. Nicholas Parish in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our safety team ensured Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protocols were closely followed when our parish reopened. Barbara worked with the Portsmouth Health and Fire Departments in community COVID-19 clinics in Portsmouth during the pandemic. Barbara grew up in Geneva, New York and moved to Portsmouth, New Hampshire upon her graduation from nursing school in 1976. She was a career emergency nurse at Portsmouth Regional Hospital for thirty years and a Portsmouth school nurse. Married to Vassilios Pamboukes in 1984, Vassilios and Barbara have three children—Joan, Christopher and Sotirios. Barbara was the recipient of the New Hampshire School Nurse of the Year Award in 2014. She is well known in the Portsmouth Community. She currently serves as regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution Ranger Chapter and is also affiliated with the Scottish Henderson Society, serving as the northeast regional commissioner. ❖
Barbara has also served as parish council secretary and is a member of the Philoptochos Society. Barbara helped
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients RHODE ISLAND Annunciation Cranston ❖ Georgia Pappas Georgia is the sole granddaughter of Fr. Panteleimon “Peter” and Presvytera Calliope Mihailides. Fr. Peter was the first priest to serve liturgy in the then-newly constructed Annunciation Church in 1921, leading the congregation for thirty-five years. Church is the center of Georgia’s life. She was involved in Sunday school, Greek school, and GOYA. In 1970, she worked for the International Institute as assistant activities director and as a Greek interpreter for the Department of Immigration. In 1979, she became an underwriting analyst for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island and retired in 2011 after thirty-two years. From 2013-2017, Georgia served as president of the Good Samaritan Philoptochos Society from 2013-2017. She also served as Vice President and Corresponding Secretary. Georgia chaired their major fundraiser, the Greek food fair and Christmas bazaar for many years. Baking for and working at parish Greek festivals, Georgia always works tirelessly. She supported celebrations on Greek Independence Day, chaired senior citizens luncheons, helped organize the annual vasilopita dinner, served on the Capital Improvement Campaign Project for church renovation. She also spearheaded a committee and started a tremendously successful Thirty Week Club. In 2015, she served on the committee for the National Philoptochos Children’s Medical Luncheon. As Fr. Andrew notes, “Outlined above is just the tip of the iceberg concerning all that Georgia has done and continues to do.” She always volunteers with a loving smile, tremendous energy, and elevates others. Georgia is beloved by many and has eight godchildren.
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Her love of church is in her DNA, instilled from a young age by her parents and beloved grandparents, who taught her the importance of being a good Orthodox Christian, the love of family, and the love of God. Georgia cared for her parents, Ernest in their Helen in their elderly years before their repose. ❖
Saint Spyridon Newport ❖ Petros and Vicki Kyriakides The community of St. Spyridon in Newport, Rhode Island is blessed to have many wonderful families that work hard for our church and give generously in support of our ministry. Petros and Vicki Kyriakides are one of those beloved couples who work tirelessly and give generously through the year for the well-being of their beloved St. Spyridon church. As local hotel and business owners, the Kyriakides family is highly respected in the communities of Newport County, Rhode Island. They are generous in helping all civic organizations and, especially, our local schools. Vicki works hard on both the church Hellenic festival and the church Christmas bazaar committees. You can always see her smiling face as she works in the kitchen to prepare our Greek delicacies. Petros is a member of both the St. Spyridon endowment committee and the local Maud Howe Elliot Order of Ahepa. We are fortunate to hold many, if not all, of our largest events at their Wyndham Hotel, where all expenses are covered, and all proceeds go directly to our church. We are grateful to Petros and Vicki Kyriakides and wish them good health and God’s blessings. ❖
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2022 Ministry Award Recipients RHODE ISLAND
VERMONT
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Pawtucket ❖ Miltiadis Michael Karavolis
Dormition of the Virgin Mary Burlington ❖ Nektarios (Doug) Le Brun
Miltiadis “Michael (Mike)” Karavolis is originally from Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up attending All Saints Greek Orthodox Church. After studying metallurgical engineering, he moved to Massachusetts to work for Texas Instruments and has been working there ever since. He soon became a member of Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Pawtucket, where Fr. George Economou eventually convinced him to join the parish council. Because of his talent with numbers, Michael served multiple terms as treasurer. He has also been an essential part of the annual festival committee, offering his mathematical talents to ensure sound finances. He is a great cook and a permanent part of the cooking teams that make the festival and all other church events possible. Michael is also an active member of our local AHEPA chapter.
Born and raised in the Salem, Massachusetts area, Nektarios attended Bennington College, where he studied literature before becoming a staff writer for a Fortune 500 corporation at its Rockefeller Center headquarters. After a few years, he left to attend Tulane Law School, where he was an editor for the Tulane Law Review. He then worked as an oil and gas lawyer in New Orleans. Ultimately driven out of New Orleans by the high crime rates, he relocated to Vermont.
He is a humble, dedicated man of service, who offers his time to the church, serving without fanfare for the glory of God. As his children note, “Michael has dedicated himself to the church and to God. He has dedicated time, money, and energy to serve the Greek church in Pawtucket; whenever the church is shorthanded, he drops everything and comes in to help. He does all of these things without ever expecting recognition or repayment. He is one of the most selfless and humble people within the community. His contributions are highly valued. A father of three kids, he has dedicated himself to his family and instilled these values in his children as well.” Michael looks forward to many more years of service to the church and we thank him for all he does! ❖
Nektarios was raised in the Christian Science denomination, but lived as an evangelical Protestant for many years, before his adult conversion to Orthodoxy. Nektarios was elected to his parish council in the fall of 2021 and was elected vice president of the parish council in 2022. He typically serves as reader at his church’s weekly orthros services, and at various mid-week services. He is endlessly grateful that an Orthodox church exists in Burlington, Vermont, the city where he currently resides. Now a semi-retired lawyer, Nektarios is an avid writer, and is transitioning into a second career as a writer of literary fiction. He is the old-fashioned kind of writer who has “been everything from A to Z,” in his case “A” being attorney and “Z” being zookeeper, although he has also earned his living as (among other things) a tutor, a night watchman, and an animal behavior research assistant. In terms of Orthodoxy, he has a special interest in iconography and in patristic writings, which he has begun to explore with great interest. He also loves, quite simply, the sound of the ringing bell of his church. He also enjoys philosophy and the arts. ❖
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Thank You to Our Sponsors
Grand Benefactors The Behrakis Foundation George and Karen Danis George E. Safiol
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Benefactors The Demoulas Foundation Cathy and George Sakellaris Family Foundation
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Thank You to Our Sponsors Awards Sponsors The Badavas Family Foundation – Robert and Kalliope Badavas Christos and Barbara Chrisafides Costa and Allyson Sideridis
❖ Dinner Sponsors Metropolitan Methodios Philippa and Peter Condakes DUNKIN’- Evangelos Moutoudis and Konse Skrivanos The Faggas Funeral Home – George Faggas, Adrianne Faggas, and Nicole M. Faggas – In Memory of Nicholas G. Faggas George and Irene Frangiadakis The Gardens Cemetery (Gethsemane) Harry and Victoria Katis Kathy Tsandikos and Harry Kokkinis - In memory of Rev. Fr. Solon and Joanna Tsandikos John and Effie Lagadinos Tas and Georgia Parafestas Mr. and Mrs. Costas Perdikakis and Family Nick and Mary Philopoulos Metropolis of Boston Philoptochos St. Demetrios Parish, Weston, MA
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Thank You to Our Sponsors Donors The Alpha Omega Council Annunciation Cathedral of New England, Boston, MA Annunciation Parish, Woburn, MA Anonymous Fotis & Mary Barounis Peter and Olga Bassett Angelo and Maria Davos Federation of Hellenic American Societies of New England Father Andrew George and Family John and Margarita Gianakouras George P. and Polyxeni Haseotes – PHILIA Foundation Stephen S. Kalivas Athena Kalyvas John Katsaros Nicholas and Jane Kourtis Father Nick and Presbytera Elaine Krommydas Chris and Matina Pappas Michael and Dorothy Sophocles Thibault Foundation Andrew and Catherine Walsh
❖ Contributors Michael and Barbara Alavi Father Ted, Daphne, Maria, Katerina, Yianni and Thea Barbas Annunciation Parish, Brockton, MA Annunciation Parish, Cranston, RI Ifigenia A. Boulogiane - In memory of James G. Boulogiane Constantine and Betty Calliontzis Bill Galatis
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Thank You to Our Sponsors Contributors (continued) Helen A. Carlos & Ron Hilliard Holy Trinity Parish, Holyoke, MA Holy Trinity Parish, Lowell, MA Eric and Elaine Sioras St. Athanasius Parish, Arlington, MA St. George, Lynn, MA St. Nectarios Parish, Roslindale, MA St. Nicholas Parish, Manchester, NH St. Spyridon Cathedral, Worcester, MA John and Maria Tamvakologos Transfiguration Parish, Lowell, MA Paul and Annette Tsitsopoulos Nick and Cathy Ypsilantis Elaine Zetes
❖ Friends Frank and Anastasia Catrickes
James and Noreen Speros
Stephen and Eleni Condakes
Van and Carolyn Spiros
Dormition of the Mother of God Parish, Burlington, VT
Angelo Stamoulis
Father Odisseys, Presvytera Maria and Thomas Drossos Vasiliki Feldmar Arthur and Carol Loridas John Maihos
Father Gregory Trakas Assumption Parish, Manchester NH Holy Apostles - Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Haverhill, MA Sts. Anargyroi Parish, Marlborough, MA
Theresa Nibi
Sts. Constantine and Helen Parish, Andover, MA
Portia Pantages, CRS- Real Estate Broker
St. John the Baptist Parish, Boston, MA
Dr. Arthur and Dr. Athena Papas Ann Robinson
St. John the Baptist Ladies Philoptochos Society, Boston, MA
Demetrios and Pauline Seremetis
St. Nicholas Parish, Clinton, MA
Peter, Kalomoira and Maria Speridakos
St. Vasilios Parish, Peabody, MA
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GREEKORTHODOXMETROPOLISOFBOSTON ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΙΣ ΒΟΣΤΩΝΗΣ
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