DEAR MEMBERS,

I hope everyone is staying safe and warm today as the second spring snow of the season has blanketed the earth with its white and silent beauty.  We know that in a few days’ time, it will all melt away and that the warmth of spring awaits us.  It’s important to absorb the blessings of each day as they are granted to us, and to feel gratitude for our lives and the wonders that each day brings.

In this Holy Lenten Season, we all draw within ourselves to examine our relationship with Christ, renewing our faith and hope for the world and for the well-being of all we hold dear.  It is a gift to be an Orthodox Christian, and a joy to be Greek.  Let’s embrace our traditions with the respect they deserve as they serve us so well in our lives.  As Father Lou says, Holy Lent is the ‘most wonderful time of the year.

DEAR MEMBERS,

February is the shortest month, but also the sweetest. Thanks for your patience in receiving this month’s newsletter. It was a busy month preparing for our special events, the Valentine’s Brunch & Bingo and also our Author’s Talk & Tea. Both events were very well attended and sincerely enjoyed by those who came. It was a pleasure to work with the wonderful women in Philoptochos to organize and prepare for our guests each time.

DEAR MEMBERS,

As the new year unfolds, Philoptochos is blessed with the many members that bring their individual skills and unique talents forward for the good of our community. Every program and project that we undertake requires an array of expertise and ability. We have been so impressed by the ideas and actions that each member has shared as we plan and prepare for this year’s activities. All of us together comprise a formidable force for good.

DEAR MEMBERS,

As the new year unfolds, Philoptochos is blessed with the many members that bring their individual skills and unique talents forward for the good of our community. Every program and project that we undertake requires an array of expertise and ability. Our members offer a diverse scope of talent and knowledge, that when combined, create impactful and inspiratonal programs. We’ve been so impressed by the ideas and actions that each member has shared as we plan and prepare for this year’s activities, and we are eager to embrace even more fresh and interesting perspectives. We encourage every member to identify someone not yet engaged in Philoptochos, and ask them to consider joining us. All of us together comprise a formidable force for good, and 2024 will be better for it. May God grant us the health, energy and wisdom necessary to grow and thrive.

DEAR MEMBERS,

We are so blessed this month to begin the holiday celebrations that bring our families and friends together to enjoy the traditions we have fostered over the years. As mothers and grandmothers, we pour our love into our preparations and fill our hearts witnessing the pleasure our labor brings to everyone dear to us. I wish each of you a Thanksgiving of gratitude and joy for all the blessings in your lives.