Summer 2015 - Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church

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The Anchor—Summer 2015
THE anchor
St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church
5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660
773-334-4515 (ph)
773-334-3468 (fax)
www.standreworthodox.org
(email) info@standreworthodox.org
Rev. John N. Kalomas, Proistamenos
Rev. John G. Kutulas, Proistamenos Emeritus
Deacon Vasilios Smith
I remember my mother always used to tell me
Epomoni (Patience). How true that was; but growing
up there was always an excitement of anticipation of
things that we waited for. Even through our lives we
experience that same excitement when we are in
anticipation of greater things to come.
How often as a child or any child has that excitement
of anticipation during the Holiday season. I used go
down and shake every present under the tree and try
to guess what was in it weeks before Christmas. Or
how often my children used to try to stay awake
seeing the empty stockings by the fireplace just
hoping they would get a glimpse of Santa? Think of
the students after they have taken an exam feeling
very good about how they did on it waiting in
anticipation for the results. Or how about the
graduates who are sitting at the commencement
exercises waiting to hear their name called knowing
that they achieved the next step of their education.
I also see it so often when I do sacraments having the
groom along with his groomsmen sitting in the side
room of the vestry waiting for the moment to be called
outside so he can await for his beloved bride to walk
down the aisle.
Yes there is so much that we can say of anticipation
of the next part of life in which we know that the best
is yet to come.
I would like to share a story with you that kind of hit
home with me. It’s the story of the Woman and the
Fork. It did affect me especially on how I looked and
dealt with change in life especially death. I have dealt
with both life and death situations as a priest. I have
seen joys and sorrows, but this puts many things in
perspective and I truly know that after you read it the
story will come back to you every time you pick up a
fork.
“There was a young woman who had been diagnosed
with a terminal illness and had been given three
months to live. So as she was getting her things 'in
order,' she contacted Her Pastor and had him come
to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final
wishes. She told him which songs she wanted sung
at the service, what scriptures she would like read,
and what outfit she wanted to be buried in. Everything
was in order and the Pastor was preparing to leave
when the young woman suddenly remembered
something very important to her. There's one more
thing,' she said excitedly..
What's that?' came the Pastor's reply? 'This is very
important,' the young woman continued. 'I want to be
buried with a fork in my Right hand.'
The Pastor stood looking at the young woman, not
knowing quite what to say. ‘That surprises you,
doesn't it?' the young woman asked. ‘Well, to be
honest, I'm puzzled by the request,' said the
Pastor. The young woman explained. 'My
grandmother once told me this story, and from that
time on I have always tried to pass along its message
to those I love and those who are in need of
encouragement. In all my years of attending socials
and dinners, I always remember that when the dishes
of the main course were being cleared, someone
would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It
was my favorite part because I knew that something
(Continued on page 3)
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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ST. ANDREW GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos
Metropolis of Chicago
Rev. John N. Kalomas, Proistamenos
Rev. John G. Kutulas, Proistamenos Emeritus
Deacon Vasilios Smith
Contact Fr. John at 773-334-4515
or Email him at frjohn.kalomas@standreworthodox.org
OFFICE MAILINGS
Bess Davis
Cathy Fasseas
Adeline Kalant
Aspasia Sarris
Stacy Diacou
Helen Giannakopoulos
Terri Mikuzis
Toula Tolias
Thank you all for your continued help and support
throughout the year!
PARISH COUNCIL 2015
Terri Mikuzis
Kosta Zografopoulos
Phil Hatzopoulos
George Marks
Bill Aslanides
Steve Hastalis
Nick Hatzopoulos
Peter Alexopoulos
President
1st Vice President/Facilities
2nd Vice President/Stewardship
3rd Vice President/Finance
Secretary
Assistant Secretary
Treasurer
Financial Secretary
Members
Michael Bartholomew
Milton Fasseas
Spiro Kondos
Mark Poulakidas
Jeffery Chrones
Nick Karafotias
Nick Kontos
Frank Prokos
STAFF & MINISTRY LEADERS
Financial Secretary:
Office Secretary:
Vivian L. Davros
Alejandra Franco
Philoptochos President:
Vonnie Karafotias
In an effort initiated by our dear departed
friend and Philoptochos sister Ethel
Kotsovos, members of the greater
Chicago Orthodox community have had
the privilege of serving lunch to
approximately 100 less fortunate fellow human beings on
the first Saturday of the month for more than 15
years. The soup kitchen, located at the First Presbyterian
Church in Evanston, is just one part of that church's
strong community outreach program. St. Andrews
Philoptochos and other volunteers have consistently and
continuously served the Saturday soup kitchen, longer
than any other single contributing group. Please contact
Fofo Egan for more information and if you would like to
join this mission.
Chanters:
Nicholas Christacos &
Dean Theodoropoulos
Choir Director:
Dr. Peter Jermihov
Narthex Committee:
William Alexopoulos, Leo Manta,
ST. ANDREW’S FOOD PANTRY
Matthew Bezanes, James Chrones,
Michael Davros, Solon Tsaoussis
More and more everyday less fortunate people are asking
churches for food. In these difficult times St. Andrew
Sunday School Coordinator: Tracey Lazos
would like to help them, but in order to do so we need
Greek School Principal:
Father John Kutulas
your help.
Mommy and Me Advisor:
JOY Advisors:
GOYA Advisors:
Young Adult Ministry:
Stephane Collopy
Tia Manolakas, &
Bill Aslanides
Georgia Loomas
Tatiana Vukotic,
Anastasia Papas, & Eleni Papas
Please help us restock our food pantry with
items such as: cereal, oatmeal, rice, pasta, pasta sauce. Also, canned items of tuna, tomato
sauce, soup, vegetables, fruit or any other non-perishable
items. It is helpful if the canned goods have a flip-top lid.
Monetary donations will also be accepted.
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better was coming...like velvety chocolate cake or deepdish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with
substance!' So, I just want people to see me there in that
casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder
'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them:
'Keep your fork ..the best is yet to come.'
The Pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he
hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would
be one of the last times he would see her before her
death. But he also knew that the young woman had a
better grasp of heaven than he did. She had a better
grasp of what heaven would be like than many people
twice her age, with twice as much experience and
knowledge. She KNEW that something better was
coming. At the funeral people were walking by the young
woman's casket and they saw the cloak she was
wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and
over, the Pastor heard the question, 'What's with the
fork?' And over and over he smiled.
During his message, the Pastor told the people of the
conversation he had with the young woman shortly
before she died. He also told them about the fork and
about what it symbolized to her. He told the people how
he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them
that they probably would not be able to stop thinking
about it either. He was right. So the next time you reach
down for your fork let it remind you, ever so gently, that
the best is yet to come. Friends are a very rare jewel,
indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to
succeed. Cherish the time you have, and the memories
you share. Being friends with someone is not an
opportunity, but a sweet responsibility.”
My friends change in our life is a great test especially
how we accept it, embrace it or even reject it. I
remember being a newly ordained priest of 2 months
and having to do my Pappou’s funeral. Less than 9
months later his wife, Paraskevi, my Yiayia became the
next. These were two individuals who for 28 years of my
life played an integral part of my upbringing. I learned
how to tend the sheep and even milk the goats with my
Yiayia’s guidance. I learned how to hunt pheasant, quail,
partridge and even rabbit with my Pappou. When that
change came the fork was not in my mind, even though
if I had really thought of it I would have seen that the fork
was in my Pappou’s and Yiayia’s hand. Even though
they were coherent they were still bed ridden.
They both passed at the age of 93. With them being
gone the best was yet to come for awaiting them was
their parents, two of their children that died at a very
young age, brothers, sisters, friends, our Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ. Yes for them the best was yet to
come, for now they were no longer bed ridden but free
The Anchor—Summer 2015
from pain, suffering, human-dignity being stripped away.
The Best for them had finally come.
So what is the best is yet to come for us; what was it for
me? What is it for anyone who has lost a loved one? It is
very hard to give a definite answer for anyone for
everyone’s pain and loss is different. Yes we can say
that the best is yet to come when we will meet again and
then our Lord will wipe away all tears from the eyes of
His creation. That is fine but still it doesn’t take away the
pain. Where can we find our fork that will at least give us
that the best is yet to come? All I can say is the best is
yet to come in what we do with the gifts that those who
have gone ahead have left us.
Can we love our children the same way our loved ones
loved us? Can we be kind and generous as they were to
those who we come in contact with? Can we love and
forgive those as our loved ones did to us? Yes for us the
best is yet to come because we keep our loved ones
alive by our actions to others. This is our fork and this is
our healing.
My Beloved Parishioners:
As we come to the end of the school year, and the
summer months bring to us opportunities of rest,
relaxation and vacations, let us remember every time we
pick up our forks of life that the best is yet to come.
I pray that all of you be blessed with much happiness.
Remember no matter how difficult it may get our Lord
has both on the earth and heaven the best that is yet to
come. May He give you the many different forks of life
with deep anticipation of the better things to come, or
even allow you to enjoy the beauty and blessing of what
you do have. At the end of it all we must remember that
it will never matter how many diplomas we have on our
wall; How much money was in our bank accounts; What
kind of car or house we lived in; but that we somehow
made a difference in the life of a child or an individual.
Share the above story with everyone you consider a
FRIEND...and I'll bet that they do remember, every time
they pick up a fork!
And just remember...keep your fork!
The BEST is yet to come!
God Bless You:
Fr. John Kalomas
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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AUGust CHURCH SERVICES
Monday, August 3, 2015
Small Paraklesis
7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Vespers for Transfiguration
7:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Transfiguration
Orthros
Liturgy
8:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Small Paraklesis
7:00 p.m.
Monday, August 10, 2015
Small Paraklesis
7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Small Paraklesis
7:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Dormition of the Theotokos
Orthos
Liturgy
8:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Beheading of St. John the Baptist
Orthos
Liturgy
8:45 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
40 Day Blessings
James Alexander, son of Vicky and Peter Triantafillou
Leonidas Theodore, son of Paula and Greg Bork
Krsitina & Nicholas, children of Pam Hastalis and Rob Byerly
Ariana Camille daughter of Michelle and Peter Argianas
Kalisi Rose, daughter of Jackelyn and Taki Kastanis
Baptisms
Thalia Gabriella, daughter of Tina and Elias Papadimas
Cecilia, daughter of Nicole and David Chiscon
Simeon, son of Evette and Gavin Coll
Steven Harm
Rebecca Vogdanos
Mihaela Katerina, daughter of Cori and George Tsouklas
Christmation
Stella Rempas
Weddings
Gregory Hart and Alexandra Baboulis
Blake Kannady and Chrissa Siolidis
George Demos and Sara Taylor
Constantine Bratsolias and Nicole Buchheit
Stergianos Vogdanos and Rebecca Vogdanos
Minos Vlamakis and Noreen Karadsheh
Funerals
Louis Demos
Peter Serras
Memorials
George Potakis— 40 days
Vojislav Ivanovic— 40 days
Eugenia Bennett— 40 days
Demetra Atsaves— 40 days
Panayotia Panayiotou—40 days
Georgia Theophilos— 6 mos
Angelo Haralampus— 6 mos
Theoney Bouris— 9 mos
Metaxia Roumanis— 1 year
Peggy Spanos— 1 year
Irene Scalia— 1 year
Despina Peroustianis— 1 year
John Bartholomew— 2 year
Louis Pagones— 3 year
Nadejda Bon— 3 year
Androniki Palivos— 3 year
Athena Christopoulos— 5 year
Anastasia Ionas— 6 year
Gus Pappas— 10 year
Eleni Metros— 15 year
Christos Ionas— 16 year
Rouvelis Ionas— 17 year
Katina Festos— 18 year
George Festos— 34 year
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
To the Stewards of Saint Andrew’s,
Prior to the Spring General Assembly, the
Parish Council received a proposal for the
development of the South parking lot. In order to do our
due diligence for the financial stability of the church, we
formed a Long Range Strategic Planning Committee.
This Committee is made up of Parish Council members
and stewards with a wide range of expertise. The
Development proposal is for a 12 story parking facility to
be built on the South lot. After several meetings, the
Committee decided to have a meeting with the
Developer. The Developer, Paul Beitler and his team
met with the Committee and answered all their
questions.
The Committee’s decision is to do a
Request for Proposal (RFP) from other developers in
order to make comparisons as to the best use of the lot.
As we continue to do our due diligence for the future of
the Parish, we will keep the community informed.
On Thursday, June 11, 2015, Father Kalomas accepted
an award for the Parish of Saint Andrew’s, from the
Council of Interreligious Leaders of Metropolitan
Chicago. This Council was formed more than thirty
years ago by Cardinal Bernardin, Metropolitan Iakovos
and other religious leaders from Chicago. This award
was given for our work with the Chicago Jewish Day
School and other religious and ethnic groups which use
our facility. Father’s speech included his time with the
children of the school by showing them that the
vestments worn by the priest are similar to those worn
by rabbis in the time of the Old Testament. He also told
stories of how the Greek Orthodox Church helped
Jewish children escape from the Nazi’s by giving them
baptismal paperwork. Parish Council members and
representatives of the Chicago Jewish Day School
attended this wonderful event.
Please do not forget our Edgewater Greek Festival
sponsored by St. Andrew’s on Saturday, July 11, 2015,
and Sunday, July 12. 2015. Please be a part of this
event by giving us your time or talent. Volunteer forms,
donation forms, and Raffle tickets are available either
on the Website or at the Church office. We look forward
to seeing you and your families.
Have a wonderful and safe summer. Thank you for your
support of St. Andrew’s.
Terri Mikuzis
Red Easter Egg Volunteers- 2015
We thank the following volunteers who dyed 1,100 red eggs on
Holy Thursday. Many thanks to Frances Tsaoussis for her
generous donation of Krinos
red egg dye. Thank you
Kosta Zografopoulos for
ordering the eggs and
supplies. Thank you to
Diane Alexander White for
the photos.
Karen Gatsis Anderson
Christine Bezanes
Eugenia Demos
Georgia Farlekas
Cathy Fasseas
Helen Giannakopoulos
Olga Karafillidis
Vonnie Karafotias
Semi Karnezos
Vasiliki Laudizio
Cynthia Melas
Evangeline Mistaras
Marianne Nichols
Artemisia Papoutsaki
Toula Tolias
Diane Alexander White
Merope Zografopoulos
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church
Chicago, IL
Celebrating its 54th Greek Festival
July 11th and July 12th
Program Booklet Advertising Contract
This is an advertising contract between St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church of Chicago, Illinois:
Name: __________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________
City: _______________________ State:______ Zip: _________
Contact Person: ______________________________________________
E-Mail: ___________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________________
The above company/person agrees to place a ______________ Advertisement in the St. Andrew’s Greek
Orthodox Greek Festival 2015 Program Booklet.
Advertisers please attach your borderless camera-ready advertising copy to this contract, (see below for
rates and layouts) along with your payment, NO LATER THAN Wednesday, June 24, 2015, payable to:
St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church
Attn: Festival
5649 N. Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60660
info@standreworthodox.org
Advertising Rates:
$150 for a full page (5 x 8)
$80 for a half page
$50 for a quarter page
$25 for “Friends of the Festival” section where you may list your business’s name, address, and telephone
number, or a personal message
Also available are Raffle Tickets:
1st $5000, 2nd $2000, 3rd $1000. Price is $10 per ticket.
Your Message
Please submit your advertising message as you would like it to appear in the ad book in the space below.
OR
Submit your typed message and attach to the contract.
All advertisement formats are final.
An electronic file is preferred (JPG) and you may email it to: info@standreworthodox.org and if one is not
available please attach a scanned copy of your advertisement or business card. Please note that original
artwork cannot be returned.
Payment: Cash _______ Check _______
Visa/MasterCard ___________________________________________
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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Dear Stewards and Friends:
This year St. Andrew’s is celebrating its 54th Festival which will be held on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12,
2015. We are looking to having a fun and successful event. We can only do this with your help. As we all know,
the costs of the festival rise each year, whether it is the food, tents, entertainment or kids activities. We always have
the best possible product and entertainment.
This year we are in hopes of defraying some of the costs for the 54th Festival. Please take a moment to look at the
list below and if you are able to help out please fill out the section at the bottom of this sheet or if you have any
questions or know of anyone who could help us out with any of the items listed, please contact Vonnie at
Vonnie@karafotias.com or call at 630-378-4878.
Items
DJ - Saturday
DJ - Sunday
Dance Troupe
Dumpsters
Police/Security
Labor
Fork Lift
Kids Area/Jumps
Cooks/Souvlaki – 2 days
Cook/Gyros – 2 days
Kitchen Personnel
Charcoal Lumps – 40 lb bag (each)
Ice
Ice Chest
Dinner Rolls
Hot Dog Buns
Spinach Pies
Cheese Pies
Vegetarian Mousaka
Pastisio
Phyllo
Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix
Lamb (2 whole legs)
Lamb
Souvlakia
Retsina
Rose Wine
Wine (Red)
Wine (White)
Greek Beer
Lemons
Watermelon
Potato Chips
Red Onions/Julienned
Green Peppers/Diced
Green Peppers/Julienned
Onions/Sliced
Onions/Diced
Olives – 12 kilo kegs
Translucent Cups/7oz – 1 case
Souffle – 2 oz. cups – 1 box
Souffle – 2 oz. lids – 1 box
Amount Needed
Cost
$1000
$1000
$250
2 @ $375 each
$2650
$1360
$650
$2600
$810
$350
$1850
13 @ $22 each
4 @ $130 each
$150
334 doz.
16 doz.
13 cases @ $50 each
11 cases @ $50 each
6 cases @ $84 each
9 cases @ $72 each
2 cases @ $50 each
25 cases @ $22 each
2 @ $160 each
55 lambs @ $60 each
680 lbs Pork Tenders
2 cases @ $54 each
9 cases @ $54 each
7 cases@ $81 each
7 cases@ $81 each
60 cases @ $22 each
2 cases @ $40.00
2 cases @ 35 each
4 cases @50 each @ $12
$53.00
$85.00
$53.00
$155.00
$60.00
6 jugs @ $60 each
$50.00
$28.00
$28.00
$1000
$1000
$ 250
$ 750
$2650
$1360
$ 650
$2600
$ 810
$ 350
$1850
$ 286
$ 520
$ 150
$ 584
$ 40
$ 650
$ 550
$ 504
$ 648
$ 100
$ 550
$ 320
$3300
$2200
$ 108
$ 486
$ 567
$ 567
$1320
$ 80
$ 70
$ 48
$ 53
$ 85
$ 53
$ 155
$ 60
$ 360
$ 50
$ 28
$ 28
Partial
Payment
Full
Payment
Full/
Partial Donation
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
Items
Amount Needed
Cost
Partial
Payment
Full
Payment
Full/
Partial Donation
Foil Pans/Full Size
2 cases @ $38 each
$ 76
Foil Lids/Full Size
1 case @ $38
$ 38
Canolla Oil – 35 lb containers
10 @ 25 each
$ 250
Salad Oil – 35 lb containers
2 @ $25 each
$ 50
Balsamic Dressing
2 cases @ 40 each
$ 80
Olive Oil
1 case - $61
$ 61
Ouzo
2 cases @ $125 each
$ 250
Metaxa
2 cases @ $125 each
$ 250
Sternos
3 cases @ 38 each
$ 114
Honey (5lb containers – 6 per case)
10 cases @ $76
$ 760
Lighter Fluid (12 containers)
$40.00
$ 40
Cup Cake Holders (15 paper/foil liner)
$20 – 15 containers
$ 20
Land O Lakes Butter – Unsalted (ONLY)
60 @ 4 each
$ 240
Pop Up Foil – 500 ct.
1 box - $15
$ 15
Tomatoes/Diced – 6/10#
1 case @ $25
$ 25
Salt/Morton Iodized – 12 lbs.
1 bag @ $15
$ 15
Spices
Oregano, Pepper, etc..
$ 350
Coffee
2 cases @ 30 each
$ 60
Rice
15 bags @ $23
$ 345
Gyros
20 cases
$2000
Tzatziki Sauce
10 cases @ $23 per case $ 230
Pita for Gyros
15 cases @ $20 per case $ 300
Paper products, plates, napkins, cups, etc..
$1200
12 boxes Swan Down Flour (ONLY)
12 @ 3 each
$ 36
6 gallons milk
$ 30
25 doz. eggs (Large)
$ 60
4 lbs Powder Sugar, 1 ½ lbs Baking Powder,
$ 75
2 lbs Baking Soda, 3 gal Corn Oil
60 lbs. Walnuts
30 lbs. Almonds
Lemon Juice
1 case @ $17
$ 17
Feta Cheese
$ 100
Gen Paks
22 cases @ $19 per case $ 418
Bottled Water
100 cases @ $4 per case $ 400
Coke
60 cases @ $7 per case
$ 420
Diet Coke
45 cases @ $7 per case
$ 315
7-Up/Sprite
40 cases @ $7 per case
$ 280
Onions, Celery, Parsley
$ 50
Chicken/Neck Bones
360 chickens
$1000
Cherry Tomatoes
22 cases @ $17 per flat
$ 374
Cucumbers
8 cases @ $19 per case
$ 152
Tomatoes
13 cases @ $14 per case $ 182
Mustard
1 case
$ 15
Hotdogs (160)
$38 (per 80)
$ 76
Sandwich Bags/Bowls
$ 25
Whipping Cream
$ 33
Kaseri Cheese (180 lbs/approx.)
$1000
Kefalogravera/Saganaki (200 lbs/approx.)
$1000
Tablecloths/Aprons/Towels
$ 225
Plastic Table Covering (Outside)
$ 500
Plastic Table Covering (Inside)
$ 100
Please Note: If you know someone who may be able to donate any of the items listed above, please contact Vonnie at 630-378-4878, no
later than Monday, June 29, 2015.
Monetary donation to the festival $ ___________ to help defray the costs or Yes, I’d like to donate _____________ in the amount of
$___________ As always, we thank you for your continued generosity and support to St. Andrew’s.
The 2015 Picnic Committee
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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Stained Glass Window Restoration Project
Chapel Update
Thank You!
As we reported in the last edition of The Anchor, due
to the freezing weather, in February, a heating pipe
froze and burst within the Chapel causing major water
damage to our beautiful worship space. Since our last
report we have removed all of the old flooring material
and are working with several restoration companies to
review the proposals and various options to restore
our beautiful chapel.
First and foremost, on behalf of the Parish Council we
would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all that have
contributed to the Stained Glass Window Restoration
Fund. As of May 31st, we have collected $128,000 and
received our first matching donation of $33,333!
As a result of your generosity, we will be able to move
forward with the next phase of our project on the north
side of the main church. We anticipate work to begin in
July!
We are working on a beautiful donor plaque that will be
placed in the Narthex to recognize all of the individuals
that have supported this project.
We have been blessed with a beautiful worship space
that holds fond memories of Baptisms, Weddings,
Sunday school and Liturgical services for so many of
our parishioners and we are working very hard with to
restore it to beautiful condition once again.
While we still have a way to meet our total goal, but
with your prayers and continued support we will
complete this project.
Chapel as it looked when brand new in 1957
Roofing & Gutters
Leaking in the Nave occurred during heavy storms during
the winter months and we are obtaining bids to make repairs
to fix the leaking areas. As the weather improves, we look
forward to beginning work as soon as possible.
As you can see there are many things going on with our
church maintenance and we continue to seek
additional members to join and assist in the
maintenance projects of the church.
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
The Anchor—Summer 2015
Page 12
Dear Ladies of Philoptochos & St. Andrew’s Parish,
As outgoing President of this wonderful organization, I would like to thank each and every one of you,
whether you are a member of Philoptochos or if you attended our events, for supporting us in all the
philanthropic works that we do.
Over the past four years we have helped many that are in need in our community and the Chicago area.
I also thank the Philoptochos for the beautiful dinner you held for me and sincerely thank everyone who
was able to attend. As I said that evening, not only do I thank all of you for your support, but thank all the
ladies and presidents’ before me for making this organization what it is today.
I would like to thank the outgoing board for all of their hard work and commitment to Philoptochos.
2013 – 2015
Executive Board
Fotine Bloom – Vice President
Recording Secretary – Anastasia Bardouniotis
Corresponding Secretary – Hellena Chrones
Treasurer –Seva Johnson
Board Advisor – Peggy Papaioannou
Board Members
Demetra Christus
Cathy Fasseas
Shia Kapos
Cynthia Melas
Marianne Nichols
Patricia Perritt
Katherine Siavelis
Patricia Tsaoussis
Marilyn Tzakis
2011 - 2013
I would like to thank the following ladies who were on this board also:
Becky Hatzopoulos – Corresponding Secretary
Stephanie Vomvouras
Thank you for a wonderful four years!
Vonnie Karafotias, Outgoing President
PHILOPTOCHOS ELECTIONS
Thursday, May 21st, we had our potluck dinner and elections. We would like to congratulate the following
ladies who will be on the 2015 -2017 Board
Anastasia Bardouniotis
Fotine Bloom
Demetra Christus
Hellena Chrones
Cathy Fasseas
Patty Harrison
Vonnie Karafotias
Vicki Karagianis
Cindy Lynch
Cynthia Melas
Terri Mikuzis
Marianne Nichols
Patricia Perritt
Katherine Siavelis
Patricia Tsaoussis
Marilyn Tzakis
Diane White
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
PHILOPTOCHOS
2015 STEWARDSHIP FORM
Philoptochos is you and me making a difference.
National Philoptochos is the largest women’s Christian charitable organization in the U.S.
We are 27,000 strong nationwide!!
Our St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society supports and helps those in need here in our community and
beyond. Philoptochos assists the elderly, the sick and the poor. We give to Orthodox missions, IOCC, St. Basil’s
Academy, local hospitals, neighborhood food pantry and other places. Philoptochos works to make the lives of
others better.
We pray you choose to be part of St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos in your time, talent, and support.
It is only through your generous commitment that we are able to pursue our philanthropic mission.
Suggested Annual Stewardship Donation: $40.00
To be distributed as follows:
National Philoptochos: $15.00 & Metropolis Philoptochos: $6.00
Any additional amount supports the good works of our chapter.
Please print a copy of this form and complete the requested information.
Name _____________________________________________________________________
Spouse ____________________________________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________________________________
City ______________________________ State _____________ Zip ___________________
Phone Number _______________________ Cell Number____________________________
Email ________________________________________________Donation Amount $______
Please make check payable to St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society (SAWPS)
Mail your check and this form to:
St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society
Attn: Membership
5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660
Whether you can help for one hour or spend the day with us, your time is appreciated!!
Please indicate the SAWPS activities that interest you:
____Holy Cross Vesper/Names Day –Sept. 13 & 14
____ Blanket Making – October, January (ongoing)
____IOCC Walkathon – September or October
____ Nursing Home – November/month may vary
____Thanksgiving Food Baskets – November
____St. Andrew’s Vesper/Names Day – November 29 & 30
____Christmas Food Baskets – December
____Dinner Dance Committee - December
____Christmas Dinner Outing – December
____Vasilopita/Coffee Hour – January
____Feed the Hungry/Annunciation Cathedral – January
____Go Red Sunday – February
____Lenten Lunch/Veneration of Holy Cross - Varies
____Glendi Committee – February/March
____Outreach Group – (reaching out to other groups)
____Baking - Lent and/or when needed – Month varies
____Bake Sale/Palm Sunday – Month varies
____End of Year Dinner Outing - June
____Boutique - As needed/July Festival
____Breakfast/Dinner Meetings – Coordinate
____Bulletin Board - Ongoing
____Public Relations - Ongoing
____Membership - Ongoing
____Programs for Monthly Meetings – Ongoing
The Anchor—Summer 2015
Dear Philoptochos Members and Friends;
We have been very busy the past few months.
Page 14
In attendance we had 200
ladies, in which many of
them wore their hats and
prizes were given out to
some of them according to
different categories.
Saturday, March 28th, we held our 2nd annual bakea-thon.
We thank Anastasia Bardouniotis for
organizing this event along with Helen
Papaioannou for teaching us how to make her
Along with a live auction, a
delicious Koulourakia, and Eugenia Demos for wonderful raffle with an
teaching us how to make Moustoukouloura. Thank array of beautiful prizes,
you to all the ladies who came and helped.
your attendance and
donations, we made
******
$20,600! A portion of
Sunday, April 11th, we had our 11th Annual Palm the proceeds from this
Sunday Bake Sale.
Thank you to Anastasia
Bardouniotis for organizing this and to everyone
who helped with the event. Special thanks to our
youngest helpers, Sofia and Eva Weber for helping
at our register. With everyone’s support we raised
over $1,100 this year!
******
Tuesday, April 21 we enjoyed listening to Paula
Renee Burzawa (Akouris) as she presented her
new book “Tassso’s Journey.” The book tells the
love story of her yiayia and papou.
We also
enjoyed the evening with an array of delicious
Greek appetizers.
******
A
Mad
Hatter’s
Fashion Show and
Luncheon was held
on Saturday, May 2,
2015 at the Union
League Club. I would
like to thank Sascha
Kalpake
and
her
committee
for
organizing a very enjoyable afternoon.
st
event will go to Camp
Erin
Chicago,
a
Children’s
Bereavement Camp
and to the St. Andrew’s Stained Glass Window
Challenge.
Thank you to all who attended and supported this
successful event!
******
Cook Book Update - With your support we have
sold 110 books! These make great gifts for many
occasions; especially bridal showers. Thank you to
all who have supported this project. Please contact
any Philoptochos Board Member to purchase your
cookbook!
******
The luncheon was
Feeding the Hungry - Your assistance is needed
emceed by special
for this new initiative of the National Philoptochos
guest
Sally
Lou
“Feeding the Hungry” with the goal of serving
Loveman, founder of
250,000 meals nationwide by July 2016; when we
Lovespeaks.
hold our next National Philoptochos Assembly.
We had a beautiful Hat
Please help us fill the container located on the
Fashion
Show
by
pangari (candle stand) to help those in need! If you
Milliner & Owner of
have contacts of people with any businesses who
Ooh-La-La Boutique,
Lisa Farrell, who gave us descriptions on the hats may wish to help, please let us know. Your support
is greatly appreciated.
modeled by some of our own parishioners.
Page 15
Philoptochos Outreach Group – Join our new
Outreach Group. Do you know of an organization
that needs help or may need to feed others? Over
the past few weeks a group of ladies have come
together to help make sack lunches for those in
need.
Come join us and be a part of this important effort.
The Anchor—Summer 2015
For more information see your upcoming
Emails, Fall Anchor and Sunday Bulletins
St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Chicago –
Feeding the Hungry Challenge.
In our neighborhood we have found a place called
Sarah’s Circle. They help women in need and have
a place where up to 50 ladies can live there.
For more information on these 2 groups contact
Vonnie at vonnie@karafotias.com or any other We are now beginning to
Philoptochos Board Member.
make sack lunches to
provide them for the
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National weekends. April 30 and
Shrine
May 22 a group of ladies
Over the past few months, our Philoptochos has gathered to make 60
collected over $4500.
Thank you to those who sack lunches for each
have participated.
session totaling 120 sack
lunches.
******
Philoptochos Commitments – April - May
We
were
able
to
accomplish this through
April Commitments:
earmarking $250 through
National: St. Basil Academy Sisterhood, $300; our
treasury
and
International Orthodox Christian Charities, $1,000;
donations.
Holy Cross/Hellenic College Lenten $500;
Metropolis: Philoxenia House, $1,000
We will be gathering at church on Friday, June 26
between 10:00 am – 10:30 am to prepare sack
May Commitments:
lunches. Please consider giving 2 hours of your
National:
75th Anniversary Founder's Fund, time.
$1,000; Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), For more information, contact Vicki Karagianis at
$250;
773-327-3194 to help out!!
Metropolis: Metropolis Luncheon Donation, $300
This has begun another one of our outreach
Upcoming Events
programs where we help groups in our
Holy Cross Vespers – Sunday, September 13,
neighborhood help stamp out hunger.
Holy Cross Names Day – Monday, September 14,
It takes many hands to help with this event so
please consider giving of your Time and Talent
Metropolis of Chicago Philoptochos Annual
Luncheon Saturday, September 19, 2015, Café La
Cave, Des Plaines, Il.; $50 per ticket
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National
Shrine Fundraiser – Sunday, Sept. 20 – more
details to follow
Metropolis
of
Chicago
Clergy
Laity/
Philoptochos Assembly – November 15 – 18,
2015; Madison, WI.; we will be discussing this at
our meeting in September
Dinner Dance – Sunday, December 6, 2015,
Westin O’Hare – more details to follow
The Anchor—Summer 2015
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Page 17
The Anchor—Summer 2015
On Sunday, June 7th, the students of our Dr. Basil E. Stevens Greek
School performed skits, recited poems, sang songs and danced for the
End of the Year Program. We would like to congratulate our 3
graduates, Elizabeth Gargano, Stavroula Nicolaou and Niki
Tsolakidis. We would also like to thank our teachers, Eugenia Demos,
Anastasia Papas, and Helen Papas and our volunteer assistants, Lily
Christopoulos and Christina
Kakavas. They all received a
small
token
of
our
appreciation
for
their
wonderful work with our
children from the Parish
Council and Community of
St. Andrew’s.
Classes for the 2015-2016 School Year
begin on Saturday, September 12, 2015.
Registration is now open, and if you preregister by July 30 with a $500 deposit
(per family) tuition will be the same as last
year.
Tuition rates for the 2015-2016 Year are
as follows:
Stewards:
Full Payment at time of Registration:
$900.00
½ Payment at time of Registration:
$955.00
Non-Stewards:
Full Payment at time of Registration:
$1,600.00
½ Payment at time of Registration:
$1,655.00
THE ABOVE TUITION RATES INCLUDE
A $75.00 BOOK, SUPPLY & PTO FEE
*There is a $50 discount which will be
applied per additional child enrolled in one
of our programs
The Anchor—Summer 2015
Page 18
St. Andrew Sunday Church School
During the past few months, our Sunday Church School Students have been involved in many Events and
Services within our Parish during Great Lent, Holy Week and through the end of our school year. First, each of our
classes participated in our annual Parish St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival. Each of our classes made
their presentations on various Sundays during February and March. Our Festival culminated with the presentations
made by our Junior High and High School Students. These students included: Dennis Polite, Stephen Rudofski,
Anthony Metz, Zoe Tsokolas, Georgia Kotsinis, and Nikolas Polite. This year’s topics were developed by the
His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios together with the Archdiocesan Department for Religious Education.
Our students worked very hard on their various presentations, and all those parishioners who heard them on those
Sundays were very impressed by their efforts. We applaud all of these students for their efforts, and thank all of our
Sunday Church School teachers and parents for instructing these students and assisting them in preparing for their
presentations. In addition, we would like to thank our judges for their assistance in making this year’s Oratorical
Festival a success.
On Saturday, April 18th, Bright Saturday, the winners of our Parish Oratorical Festival went on to represent
our St. Andrew Parish at the Metropolis St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival this year hosted at the Parish
of St. Spyridon in Palos Heights, Illinois. It was truly a wonderful day and a blessing to all
those who were present! Our students represented us very well through all their efforts and their
witnesses of Faith, and it was wonderful seeing how our students are growing spiritually year after
year. Present at this year’s Metropolis Festival were: Dennis Polite, Anthony Metz, Georgia
Kotsinis, and Nikolas Polite. Although all of our students represented us very well, we are
excited to announce that Dennis Polite was awarded 1st Place in the Junior Division Oratory
Division. Dennis then went on to represent our Metropolis of Chicago at the National St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival at the Parish of St. Anthony in Pasadena, California. We are
very proud to announce that Dennis was awarded 2nd Place in the Junior Division Oratory
Division as well! We congratulate each of our students and wish them all the best as we look
forward to next year. “Kai es anotera”!
During Holy Week, our Sunday Church School Students as well as other children
within our extended Parish family participated in our Saturday of Lazarus Holy Week
Retreat on Saturday, April 4th and in our Good Friday Outreach Project on Friday,
April 10th. Both were wonderful days for our Parish Family. For the Saturday of Lazarus
Retreat, we especially would like to thank Eleni Parisi, Tracy
Poulakidas, Sue Mouflouzelis, Demetra Christus, and Cathy
Fasseas, as well as the parents for all their efforts. For the
Good Friday Outreach Project, we would especially like to
thank Kosta Zografopoulos, Peggy Papaioannou, Arlene
Siavelis Kehl, and Vivian Davros for all of their help.
Everyone in our Parish Family who helped in the organization,
instruction, meal preparation, as well as offered their assistance
and donations in making both the Saturday of Lazarus Retreat
and in the Good Friday Outreach Project successful and meaning for all is sincerely
appreciated. What better way can we teach our children about the true meaning of Holy
Week than to spend the holiest days of the year together as a family and make them a
Christ-centered!
Our Sunday Church School year ended with a wonderful Graduation Program presented on Sunday, June 7th.
Our program included having each Sunday Church School Class coming up to the solea along with their teachers to
receive their certificates of participation within our church school program. We would like to thank all of our teachers
for all of their efforts and instruction and to our parents who supported their children by bringing them each Sunday
so that they could nurture and grow in our Holy Orthodox Faith. Our heartfelt thanks to all for a great school year!
Our Graduation Program continued on Sunday, June 14th, when our High School Seniors and our OCF
Graduates from Loyola University were honored and presented with gifts from our Parish by Fr. John Kalomas.
We hope that these gifts will be a source of strength for each of these students throughout their lives!
Congratulations to all of our High School Seniors who graduated from our St. Andrew Sunday Church School
Program. These seniors include:
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The Anchor—Summer 2015
Nicholas Gargano graduated from Saint Ignatius College Preparatory High School in Chicago. Nicholas will be
attending the University of San Diego in the fall where he was recruited to play Division 1 Football for the
University of San Diego Football Team as a Defensive Tackle.
John R. Hirsch will be graduating from Lincoln Park High School in Chicago. John will continue his education
next year in the Aerospace Engineering Program at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), Chicago.
Nicole Karabas is a graduate of New Trier High School in Winnetka. Nicole will be attending Elon University in
North Carolina in the fall where she will pursue General Studies and compete as a Division I athlete on the
Women's Track and Field team in Pole Vaulting.
Georgia Kotsinis is a graduate of Glenbrook South High School in Glenview. In the fall, Georgia will be
attending Boston University and studying Communication/Public Relations with a minor in Spanish.
Nikolas Lee Polite graduated from Saint Ignatius College Preparatory High School in Chicago. Nikolas will be
attending DePauw University next year in Greencastle, Indiana where he plans on continuing his studies in the
Sciences, in either Chemistry and/or Biology.
George Sotos graduated from Lane Technical High School in Chicago. George will be attending the University
of Iowa, School of Engineering.
We wish them all of God’s blessings as they each begin their new journey in life with much health and happiness in
all your future endeavors!
Finally, I would like to remind all of our parish family regarding our Vacation Church School which will take
place this year the week of August 3-7th at our neighboring Parish of St. Demetrios of Chicago. Last year we had a
wonderful week of instruction and activities together with the students and teachers of St. Demetrios. This year we
are planning an equally wonderful week with St. Demetrios as well as our other neighboring parishes. As a special
treat, we are also planning a Field Trip to the St. Iakovos Retreat Center in Wisconsin on Friday, August 7th. We
encourage all of our Parish Family, particularly those with children in preschool through 6th grade to be present for
this wonderful program!
With Love in Christ,
Kathy Siavelis
Pre-K
Jr. Kindergarten
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd & 4th Grades
5th, 6th, 7th & 8th Grades
High School
High School Graduates
Loyola OCF Graduates
The Anchor—Summer 2015
St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church
5649 N. Sheridan Rd.
Chicago, IL 60660
Page 20