Philoptochos

Philoptochos Introduction

The Philoptochos Women’s Society of St. Athanasios is an organization whose primary purpose is aimed toward philanthropic endeavors and programs.  All men and women in our parish may become members of this society, which provides for the disadvantaged and assists the church in many ways.   Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month.

If you are a parishioner in need please following read this article for more information… Philoptochos, Responding To The Needs Of The Greek Orthodox Community For Over 80 Years

Philoptochos News

Dear Parishioners,

Dear Fellow Parishioners and Philoptochos Stewards:

Our Philoptochos Chapter has had a very busy spring, and are gearing up for the summer months when we take a vacation from our hard work, but not a vacation from church.   We are proud to congratulate Xanthippe Nakopoulos who was our recent honoree at the Metropolis Clergy Laity Recognition Dinner.   Xanthippe emulates all that is good and charitable in this world.  She is constantly working on behalf of the church and Philoptochos.    Axia!

Amongst the mission of Philoptochos is promoting Orthodoxy.   Our chapter made a donation to St. Athanasios General Fund of $3000.00 on Mother’s day, as well as a donation to offset the expenses of the Festival of $2000.

The cornerstone of Philoptochos is our Social Services Program.   We are here to assist  Orthodox Christian individuals and families who are in the United States, regardless of their immigration status, to address and resolve their human service and/or financial challenges as effectively as possible.

Services provided:

  1. Social Services: Short-term counseling and interventions, referrals to other resources
  2. Financial Assistance: Within the policies of the organization
  3. Resources: Fact sheets, education and training materials/guides, linkages and collaborations with appropriate organizations and institutions
  4. Presentations: Seminars, workshops, and webinars on topics and issues relevant to the Orthodox Christian Community and today’s society

To apply for assistance, please Contact our philoptochos president.

Reasons people may need help: 

  • Economic hardship or poverty
  • Hunger and food insecurity
  • Domestic violence
  • Elder abuse
  • Health and mental health issues
  • Substance abuse disorder
  • Housing insecurity and homelessness
  • Effects of disasters and tragedies

We encourage you to check out Philoptchos Monthly Newsletter on www.Philoptochos.Org, as well as our Social Media.

As we wind down our active months, we will be holding elections and awarding scholarships.   Stay tuned for more in the next newsletter.   We wish you all a wonderful summer, and look forward to starting our very worthy work in the fall.

In Christs Service,

Thea Portelos

President, St. Irenes Philoptochos Society of St. Athanasios Church


Philoptochos Board:

Theodora (Thea) Portelos, President

Vasiliki (Vaso) Panagopoulos, 1st Vice President

Anthoula (Anne) Kamvosoulis, 2nd Vice President

Arete (Rita) Pavlou, Corresponding Secretary

Karen Scoullos, Recording Secretary

Xanthippi Nakopoulos, Treasurer

Anna Gourmos, Assistant Treasurer

Aspasia Panagiotopoulos, Advisor

for more information email: philoptochos@stathanasiosnj.org