Dear Friends,
The aim and purpose of the Philoptochos at all levels is philanthropy, which literally means "friend of mankind". The Philoptochos formulates plans and methods to voluntarily aid the poor, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed, the orphaned, the imprisoned, the widowed, the handicapped, victims of disasters as well as to undertake the burial of impoverished persons and to offer assistance to anyone who may need the help of the Church through special funds or solicitations on the National, Diocesan, and local levels. In addition to these philanthropic endeavors, the Philoptochos strives to preserve the sacredness of the Orthodox family through family concern, service, and unity of action- to perpetuate the Christian concept of marriage and upbringing of children and to perpetuate and promote the Greek Orthodox Faith. The Philoptochos of St. John's has dedicated itself to this mission.
We would like to extend a special thank you to Elli Yorgiadis for her very generous donation in memory of her beloved departed brothers and sister. With her help we will be more able to fulfill our mission of philanthropy.
We would also like to thank Ted's Best for helping us fulfill our mission by honoring our food vouchers for needy families who come to our church asking for food. And a big Congratulations to Ted and Kathy - the newlyweds - and their families!
To further fulfill our mission we have started a Sunshine Committee. This committee is responsible for visiting our parishioners who are either in nursing homes, or home-bound, ill, or in need of a ride to church or just someone to talk to. Tena Kosebas, our Vice President and Welfare chairman, is heading up this committee and we already have many interested members signing up for this worthwhile work. If you are interested in helping or you know of a person who could use a little "sunshine" , please notify me, Tena or any Philoptochos Board member.
SAVE THE DATE! Our Fashion Show Committee is in high gear now working to hold the very best fashion show yet for St. John's! Saturday, March 1 st, 2003 is the date, the Grove Theater in Anaheim is the place. Fun, fashions, Sweethearts and much much more! See the Welcome Table on Sundays for more information or ask one of our chairpersons, Mary Ohanian, or Christina Dourbetas. Young Ladies, if you are at least 16 years old or a sophomore in high school, you are welcome to be a Sweetheart featured in our Fashion Show. Sign up with Mary Ohanian, Christina Dourbetas, or Marina Medenas.
Some Coming Events:
| Philoptochos General Meeting | Wed. Nov. 6 |
| Philoptochos Bake Sale | Sun. Nov 24 |
| Food Baskets (Collection & Assembling) | November and December |
| Golden Stars Christmas Party | December 7 |
| Vasilopeta | Sun., Jan 12 |
| Membership Tea | Sat. Jan. 25 |
| Philoptochos Sunday | Sun. Jan. 26 |
Christine Pappas President