Philoptochos
Derived from the Greek, the name Philoptochos means “friends of the poor.” As such, the Ladies Philoptochos Society of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral is a vibrant source of fellowship and philanthropic service in our community.
The National Ladies Philoptochos Society was established in 1931 by the late Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras I and has since become one of the largest Christian women’s philanthropic organizations in the United States. The National Society established Chapter No. 12 at Saint Sophia in 1932. (Detailed history of the Philoptochos Society)
The Patron Saints of Philoptochos are Saints Cosmas and Damianos, the Holy Unmercenaries. They were physicians who tended to the poor and afflicted without compensation except to ask the healed that they confess and believe in Christ. Their lives ended in martyrdom in the year 284, under Roman Emperors Carinus and Numerian.
A PLEA FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Dear Chapter Presidents, Philoptochos Stewards and Friends:
As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the United States and the world, the need for emergency humanitarian relief has become increasingly visible and compelling. As sisters dedicated to the mission of Philoptochos, we know that this is a time when our ability to offer help – and love – has never been more important.
For that reason, we are requesting all chapters who have not already done so, to forward your Social Services commitment, and if possible, an additional contribution to the Philoptochos COVID-19 Emergency Fund, to the National Philoptochos Office, as soon as possible. Applications for emergency relief have already been received from across the United States and our ability to respond to this unprecedented need will depend entirely on the support you and your chapter can provide.
This is not an ordinary time and it requires an extraordinary response. We ask that you be as generous as you can possibly be. National Philoptochos will commit every dollar received in connection with the COVID-19 Emergency Fund directly to the assistance of those in need; no administrative costs will be assessed. And thanks to your investment in our electronic infrastructure, the National Philoptochos Office is fully operational and prepared to receive and process all your donations, stewardship and commitments.
A battle is now before us. Please join us and be part of what Archbishop Elpidophoros has called “an army of agape.” Please help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and please, be comforted by the knowledge that when the call came, you answered it with love and kindness.
With love in Christ,
Maria Logus, Esq.
National Philoptochos President
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Activities
The activities of Philoptochos fall within 3 general categories:
Philanthropy »
National and local support of charitable organizations and individuals in acute need
Fellowship »
Creating opportunities for greater interaction among members of the parish
Faith in Action »
Largely focused on providing food to those in need beyond our Cathedral Community
What can I do? at home, at the Cathedral, in my neighborhood, in Northwest Washington, D.C. and beyond. Click here to get involved today!
Philoptochos News
Philoptochos Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events »
Board of Directors 2019-2021
Officers
Helen Fliakas: President
Joanne Kenny: Vice President
Mary Dimos: Treasurer
Elisabeth Kandianis: Assistant Treasurer
Lia Fidas: Recording Secretary
Jan Petros: Corresponding Secretary
The Very Reverend Steven P. Zorzos, DMin.: Spiritual Advisor
Patricia A. Gogos: National Board Liaison
General Board Members
Fotini Economides
Mary Kirshbaum
Angela Kolaras
Linda Loukas
Alexandra Mallus
Stracie Maniatis
Elaine Joost, Advisor
Joining the Philoptochos
Membership in Philoptochos is open to all women of the Cathedral over the age of 18. The annual membership is $35.00 but we encourage stewardship of amounts above $35.00. Additional contributions under stewardship would greatly help us meet our Saint Sophia Cathedral philanthropic ministries and expenses. An annual membership roster is sent to National Philoptochos and to the Direct Archdiocesan District. Along with the roster, $15.00 is sent to National and $6.00 is sent to the Direct Archdiocesan District for each member so that they may fulfill their ministries. For more information regarding membership, please e-mail Stracie Maniatis at straciem@aol.com.
Click here to view our Philoptochos Facebook Page
For more information please e-mail us at philoptochosdc@gmail.com.
