GARFIELD, NJ — The Northern New Jersey Region of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey gathered at The Venetian for its annual Regional Honoree Grand Banquet, recognizing dedicated parishioners whose service and commitment continue to strengthen the Greek Orthodox Church, Hellenic heritage, youth ministries, Greek education, and parish life throughout Northern New Jersey.
The annual banquet brought together clergy, parish leaders, Philoptochos members, educators, youth leaders, volunteers, families, and faithful from across the region to celebrate individuals who have devoted their time and talents to the Church and the Greek-American community.
Presiding over the evening was His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos, who joined attendees in honoring parishioners serving through Parish Councils, Philoptochos ministries, Sunday Schools, Greek Schools, GOYA programs, youth ministries, senior stewardship, and volunteer leadership initiatives.
Distinguished guests included Iphigenia Kanara and Kyriakos Pogiatzis, whose presence highlighted the strong ties between the Greek Orthodox Church, Greece, Cyprus, and the Greek-American community in the United States.
In addition to celebrating the honorees, the Metropolis also recognized the birthday of Metropolitan Apostolos with a special cake-cutting ceremony honoring his spiritual leadership and dedication to the faithful of the Metropolis of New Jersey.
During his address, Metropolitan Apostolos emphasized the importance of faith, unity, stewardship, service, and preserving Orthodox Christianity and Hellenic traditions for future generations.
“Tonight, we gather with gratitude and joy as one family in Christ, giving thanks to God for the many faithful servants who strengthen the life of our parishes and our sacred Metropolis,” said His Eminence.
He offered special recognition to the pioneers and elders of the Greek Orthodox community whose sacrifices helped preserve the Orthodox faith, Greek language, traditions, and Hellenic values in America.
“Through hard work and perseverance, you preserved our Orthodox faith, our traditions, and our Hellenic heritage for future generations,” Metropolitan Apostolos stated.
The Metropolitan also praised Parish Council members, Philoptochos women, Greek School and Sunday School teachers, GOYA advisors, youth directors, and volunteers for helping guide young people toward faith, purpose, and service within the Church.
Addressing the youth in attendance, His Eminence reminded them that they are an essential part of the Church today and encouraged them to remain connected to Christ, Orthodoxy, and their Hellenic roots.
“You are not only the future of the Church, but the living Church today,” he said.
The evening reflected the enduring strength, unity, and commitment of the Greek Orthodox faithful throughout Northern New Jersey, while underscoring the vital role of community service, volunteerism, faith, and Greek heritage within parish life.
Concluding his remarks, Metropolitan Apostolos called upon the faithful to continue strengthening their communities through love, faith, and unity in Christ.
“May the Risen Lord continue to bless your families, strengthen your ministries, and guide our sacred communities in peace, faith, and love,” he said.
“Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!”
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