On Sunday, November 17, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos held its annual Light The Path – A Christmas Reception at the Los Coyotes Country Club in Buena Park, California. This cherished event celebrated the students and seminarians of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco currently attending Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology (HCHC).
The festive day began with guests shopping at the beautifully curated Christmas Tree Boutique, featuring unique holiday items perfect for the season. Attendees were then inspired by a keynote address from Dr. Demetrios Katos, recently appointed President of Hellenic College Holy Cross, who shared the exciting transformations currently taking place at the institution and plans for its bright future.
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring four exceptional students from the Metropolis of San Francisco enrolled at HCHC: Joseph Bosl, Demetrius Dogias, Kosta Prevas, and Nicholas Prevas. The panel offered a glimpse into their lives and experiences at Hellenic College Holy Cross, underscoring the significance of their educational journey in preparing them to serve as future priests and leaders within the Greek Orthodox community.
Adding to the holiday spirit, the renowned Citrus Singers from Citrus College in Glendora, CA performed a selection of Christmas carols, delighting guests and officially kicking off the holiday season.
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos emphasized the vital role of supporting Light the Path, along with the students and seminarians of Hellenic College Holy Cross, stating, “This annual event is more than just a celebration and fellowship; it is an essential lifeline to the future of our beloved Church, supporting a scholarship fund for seminarians and dedicated students pursuing Orthodox theological education. In a world that constantly pulls us in so many directions, it is crucial to recognize the sacred importance of the work being accomplished here. The scholarship fund we support represents the future of our Orthodox faith, providing for the priests and lay leaders of tomorrow.” Metropolitan Gerasimos also expressed his gratitude to the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos for their unwavering commitment to this meaningful ministry. In a significant gesture of support, His Eminence presented Dr. Demetrios Katos with a $50,000 donation from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco to benefit Hellenic College Holy Cross.
This year’s Light The Path reception raised over $150,000 for the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund. These funds provide crucial financial support to seminarians, ensuring they can pursue their theological education without undue financial burden.
The Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, contributed, and supported this event. For those who wish to continue supporting the education and development of our future spiritual leaders, donations can be made online at sfphiloptochos.org.
Together, we illuminate the path for the next generation of clergy and leaders, strengthening the future of our Metropolis and the broader Orthodox Christian faith.
Photo Credit: Allen Altchech Photography