Protocol 40/10

May 16, 2010
AHEPA Sunday

To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On this day we as the Holy Archdiocese of America recognize the members and service of the American Hellenic Educational and Progressive Association.  The AHEPA family has a long history of promoting Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence in a spirit of true diakonia and community.  

Through national and international programs, initiatives, and annual meetings, the members of AHEPA continue to enhance the well-being of so many.  They are also members of the parishes and organizations of our Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, worshipping and serving in our sacred mission to share the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.  It is in this way that the goals of AHEPA represent the nature of the relationship of our Orthodox faith and Hellenic heritage.  With a tradition of compassion for those in need, a dedication to the highest ideals, and a commitment to offering so that others might succeed in life, the members of AHEPA are able to provide a witness of the attributes of our faith and heritage that nurture our potential and affirm our need for God and one another.  This is a witness that we can all offer as Greek Americans, Philhellenes, and Orthodox Christians, sharing with everyone the great inheritance we have received.  

On this Sunday, we thank the AHEPA family for their significant contribution in our communities, this country, and around the world.  I ask all of our parishes to recognize the members of AHEPA and promote the work of this esteemed organization.  As brothers and sisters in Christ and as beneficiaries of a great and beautiful tradition of faith, truth, knowledge and life, let us pray to God for the vital work of AHEPA, and may we labor together for His honor and glory. 

With paternal love in Christ,

†DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America