Philoptochos Society

Saint Barbara PHILOPTOCHOS Chapter #5037
PHILOPTOCHOS- “friend of the poor”

Our Lord’s work is neither heavy nor one of strife- it is one that renews,
that gives life to those who take part in it.”

Philoptochos is the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. It is one of the largest women’s charitable organizations in the country. The Society was founded in 1931 by then Archbishop Athenagoras. Today, Philoptochos chapters are located in every Greek Orthodox parish in the United States. Regardless of size, each chapter is dedicated to the same goal—helping our brothers and sisters who are in need. Philoptochos members work to help support the institutions of our faith. Throughout the nation they have raised millions of dollars through fundraising events. Their efforts have helped ease the pain and suffering of many.

But as great as our efforts have been, there is always more to do.
Our St. Barbara Chapter invites you to join in serving and working for those in need. Through our efforts we know that we can make a difference and as Orthodox Christians we can do no less.

Our St. Barbara Philoptochos women support many worthy institutions on an international, national and local level such as:

• Hellenic College/Holy Cross School of Theology, Cancer Fund, Ecumenical Patriarchate Fund, Salvation Army both in Sarasota and Manatee County, SPARCC, United Cerebral Palsy, Presbyteres Benevolent Fund, National Sisterhood of Presbyteres, RCA- Retired Clergy Association, Autism Fund, Adopt-A-Family, St. Basil’s Academy, National Philoptochos Social Services, OCF- Orthodox Christian Fellowship, Children’s Cardiac Fund, St. Photios Shrine, Meals-on-Wheels in Sarasota and Manatee County, Clergy Education Fund, IOCC-International Orthodox Christian Charities, Ronald McDonald House, UNICEF, St. Stephens Youth Camp, OCMC-Orthodox Christian Mission Center, Metropolis of Atlanta Discretionary Fund, Youth Ministries- AGAPE FUND, Hellenic Folk Dancers, St. Barbara Religious Education, GOYA, Zoe for Life, Mothers Helping Mothers, Project Light of Manatee, Diakonia Magazine Religious Education Fund, St. Barbara Philoptochos Scholarship Fund, and many, many other worthy causes. Philoptochos has also donated toward the many appointments for our St. Barbara Church.

Our St. Barbara Philoptochos has grown and expanded its activities because the women of this parish have heeded the call for philanthropy and outreach…. As much as our chapter does, it can always do more—

Caring is….
Sharing your Love through ministry to others.
The rewards are greater for those who give.

2020 St. Barbara Philoptochos Board

President – Marilyn Blazakis 941-355-8727 (nicmarblase@msn.com)

Vice President 1 –Maria Kirlangitis 941-730-9955 (volisso@aol.com)

Vice President 2 –Kalleope Amoratis 941-893-5586 (kallenik@aol.com)

Treasurer – Beatrice Kiritsis 941-966-6037 (bkiritsis@aol.com)

Assistant Treasurer – Pat Trempelas 508-737-1428 (mamaga47@gmail.com

Recording Secretary – Paree Gardner 941-373-6312 (sogpsq@verizon.net

Corresponding Secretary – Stella Peters 941-404-0852 (smpeters41@aol.com)

Board Member – Peggy Doukas

Board Member – Vickie Elias

Board Member – Charlene Goranites

Board Member – Elaine Lampros

Board Member – Paulene Soublis

Board Member – Demetra Walters

Advisor – Past President, Tina Georgas

Advisor – Past President, Dina Hobson