Archon Dinner in Anaheim 

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco were honored guests at the Archon Dinner hosted by Archon Gerry and Jeannie Ranglas.  The Dinner took place during the Folk Dance Festival (FDF) weekend in Anaheim, CA. Guests included Consul General of Greece in Los Angeles Christina Valassopoulos, National Chancellor for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Fr. Nektarios Papazariopoulos and Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco His Grace Bishop Ioannis of Phocaea. 

In his remarks to those in attendance, Archbishop Elpidophoros thanked the Archons for their support of FDF stating, “The fact that the Archons have taken such a keen interest in FDF is a most positive sign, because it underscores their commitment to building up the Body of Christ through all the means at our disposal. To engage the arts of the Γένος – the Greek and Orthodox People of God – is a praiseworthy endeavor indeed! The in-gathering of God’s People through FDF is a worthy ministry, and every member of the Metropolis of San Francisco deserves our congratulations and gratitude. You are building memories and connections here that will last a lifetime. The participation of our young people, together with their adult mentors and advisors, is a sign of the health and vitality of our Church.”

After the dinner a $12,000 donation was presented for the Metropolis of San Francisco’s program “Pilgrimage of Discovery” whose mission is to bolster the future of the Orthodox Church by educating and inspiring future leaders through fostering a lifelong connection to the Mother Church of Constantinople.

Full text of Remarks here.

View all photos on Flickr here.

Photos: GOARCH/D. Panagos