The Community of Saint Demetrios in Union, New Jersey, joyfully celebrated its Patron Saint, Saint Demetrios, on October 26, 2024. The festive occasion featured a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy led by the Most Reverend Metropolitan of New Jersey, His Eminence Apostolos. He was joined by Father Petros Dervizis, pastor of the Holy Trinity Church in Westfield, Archdeacon Konstantinos Loukas, and Father Evgenios Tsaramanidis, the head of the St. Demetrios Community.
During his sermon, His Eminence Apostolos spoke about the life and martyrdom of Saint Demetrios, emphasizing his significance to the Greek Orthodox faith. Following the Divine Liturgy, he ordained two readers, providing them with spiritual guidance for their important ministry.
Father Evgenios Tsaramanidis welcomed the Most Reverend and the large congregation, expressing gratitude for the significant attendance. In honor of the 40th anniversary of the Church’s relocation from New York to Union, an official meal was offered to all visitors.
The president of the Church Council, Mrs. Vasiliki Spyropoulou, extended her thanks to His Eminence for his visit and acknowledged Mrs. Mata Agriantoni, the director of the Greek School, which currently serves 50 children. The event concluded with traditional dances performed by the church’s dance group and Goya, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Greek community.