The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco has woven a tapestry of seven states, sixty-seven parishes, and fourteen innovative ministries. Within our vibrant Metropolis there are a multitude of reasons for celebration. This Gala, from which we derive invaluable support, assumes paramount significance in fueling the growth of these cherished ministries which enrich the lives of our faithful, nurture their spiritual connection with the Lord, and uplift their souls. We are especially blessed to integrate our Metropolis-offerings with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America to support the efforts of the national church which is under the guidance and jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The Metropolis ministries flourish as active and dynamic reservoirs of its faith, breathing life into its congregations, fostering an immersion in knowledge, extending compassionate outreach to the wider community, igniting inspiration for its youth, and safeguarding its invaluable cultural heritage.

The support from the Gala fuels the growth of these cherished ministries which also integrate our Metropolis-offerings with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America to support the efforts of the national church.

• The good works of the Metropolis Philoptochos focus on philanthropic outreach into the very communities we call home, allowing us to tangibly embody Christ's boundless love for humanity.
• Family Wellness is committed to providing resources, training, support and information through online and in-person seminars and workshops to parishes, individuals, and to bring people together to connect through the heart for deeper Christ-centered relationships.
• Christian Education strives to provide content, catechist training, programs and connections to support a life-long journey of catechetical learning and understanding.

• Our innovative Missions and Evangelism ministry continues to nourish the spiritual and numerical growth of the Greek Orthodox Church throughout the West.
• Music is an integral component of worship, and our Church Music ministry offers a variety of resources for the perpetuation of our rich musical heritage.
• Monthly webinars continue to be offered by our Stewardship ministry, which has developed an impressive library of online materials for helping parishes increase engagement in the sharing of time, talent, and treasure.
• So that our communities can continue to grow and thrive, our Orthodox Parish Leadership ministry provides seminars and trainings for lay leaders to contribute meaningfully to the direction of their local community, including guidance on strategic planning, mission and vision.
• Clergy Continuing Education develops learning opportunities for our clergy to assist in their personal growth and ministerial effectiveness.

• For over 46 years, the Folk Dance and Choral Festival has been at the center of inspiring a sense of connection between the young people in our Metropolis through faith, dance, and fellowship, bringing together the largest gathering of youth across our Archdiocese.
• A variety of Youth and Young Adult ministry programs are offered, including Summer Camp which thrives at full capacity, attracting an ever-increasing number of young hearts yearning for spiritual enlightenment.
• Young Adults are participating in record numbers in the annual YAL (Young Adult League) Conferences which focus on four pillars of involvement: Service, Worship, Fellowship and Witness.
• Youth develop a deeper appreciation for our Hellenic culture as they engage in immersive educational experiences such as the Greek Village Camp where they receive instruction in language, customs, music, dance and more.
• Established in 1979, Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center is situated on nearly 250 acres in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The Ranch offers a place of spiritual renewal and growth in an atmosphere promoting the wholeness of the individual – body, mind, and spirit – and is a resource center for parishes through programs offered for faithful of all ages.
• The Greek Language and Culture ministry provides training and coordinates resources for Greek language schools.

The Metropolis Gala was established in 2013 as a source of funding support for the expansion of our Metropolis ministries. So much has been accomplished over this past decade, yet there is more to be realized through your generous support.

Tickets for this year’s Metropolis Gala on Saturday, October 28, are $300 per person, $150 for Young Adults (ages 18-30, maximum of two tickets per person) and Sponsorships are available online. Special pricing for weekend hotel accommodations is also available by calling 415-397-7000 (Group Name: Greek Orthodox Metropolis Gala 2023).

We hope you will join us!