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His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios Proclaims May 20 as AHEPA Sunday
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WASHINGTON— His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios has designated May 20, 2007 as “AHEPA Sunday” in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, announced Supreme President Gus J. James, II. Annually, His Eminence issues an encyclical recognizing the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) for its programs and services that promote education and philanthropy and that advance the principles of Hellenism.
Archbishop Demetrios has asked the Orthodox faithful to offer prayers and support for the local AHEPA chapters and the national organization. “As Greek Orthodox Christians we should give thanks for our Hellenic Heritage and support all of our churches across the country,” James said. “We are humbled by His Eminence’s kind words in recognition of AHEPA, its significance and contribution to the community, since 1922.” In its 85-year history, the AHEPA family is proud of the continued support it has made to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and its mission, ranging from chapter involvement and volunteerism for parishes to national campaigns that raised millions for St. Basil Academy and St. Photios Shrine. “It is also very pleasing to me that Ahepans serve the Church on councils at all levels—parish, diocesan and archdiocesan; and many are Archons of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle and Leadership 100 members too, of which we are proud.” said James. On this third Sunday in May, AHEPA chapters will hold memorial services for departed members and sponsor the coffee-hour following church services in their local parishes. Also, the supreme president has asked all AHEPA chapters to remember the memory of a beloved one, by making a contribution to the AHEPA-Archbishop Demetrios Scholarship Fund. Moreover, AHEPA contributes annually to support the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Halki Theological School and various charities in the U.S. and abroad. For more information about the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, or to view the Encyclical, please visit www.goarch.org. |
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(Posting date 20 January 2007) The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) is the largest and oldest American-based, Greek heritage grassroots membership organization. Its scope is international with chapters in the United States, Canada, Greece, and Cyprus, and "sister" chapters in Australia and New Zealand under the auspices of AHEPA Australasia. AHEPA was founded on July 26, 1922 in response to the evils of bigotry and racism that emerged in early 20th century American society. It also helped Greek immigrants assimilate into society. Today, AHEPA promotes the ideals of ancient Greece, which includes philanthropy, education, civic responsibility, and family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism. The AHEPA family consists of four organizations: AHEPA, Daughters of Penelope, Sons of Pericles and Maids of Athena. For more information about the organization or how to join, contact AHEPA Headquarters (202-232-6300) or visit the organization's newly redesigned website at http://www.ahepa.org. HCS maintains an extensive archives of AHEPA articles and press releases which readers are invited to browse under the AHEPA Family Releases section of the site archives at http://www.helleniccomserve.com/archiveahepa.html. |
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