The 44th Annual Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festival is just around the corner. You will want to FOCUS on the weekend of February 13 – 16, 2020 at the Anaheim Marriott in Anaheim, California for a spectacular array of dances from regions throughout Greece, colorful handmaid costumes, traditional music, beautiful chanting and singing, and most especially witnessing the joy of fellowship by the over 3,000 anticipated dancers, singers, family and friends who will celebrate the achievements of our youth.
The Metropolis of San Francisco is especially honored to welcome His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America to FDF where he will witness the vibrancy of our faith and culture in action. His first visit to FDF was in 2014 when he was serving as Metropolitan of Bursa, but this will be his first official visit since being enthroned as Archbishop of America in June 2019.
“I always anticipate with great joy the weekend of FDF, to see so many of our youth and their families gathered together in such a beautiful celebration of faith, dance and fellowship,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “The theme they have chosen this year, ‘Focus’, gives us the chance to look with clarity and vision at the rich history of this ministry and the promise that it holds for future generations. Being joined by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America will also provide us with the opportunity to focus on his vision for the future of our Archdiocese and the inspirational leadership he is bringing to his Archpastoral ministry.”
The 2020 Metropolitan Anthony Humanitarian Award will be presented to the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos for their dedication to providing for the needs of others. Whether it is children with cancer and their families, those who are hungry or homeless, or those just in need of friendship, Philoptochos has been a shining example of philanthropy and faith in action. The Metropolis Philoptochos has also partnered with FDF for several years on an annual Diakonia project, providing an opportunity for collaboration through feeding the hungry, or packaging personal care items for the homeless. The support of the Metropolis Philoptochos has also been exemplary through the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund which has provided more than $3 million in scholarships to our Hellenic College Holy Cross seminarians and students for over 34 years.
Even though online registration has closed, you can still experience FDF. Access passes for various weekend events will be available onsite during FDF. Check out www.yourfdf.org for more details. See you in Anaheim, California!
PHOTO CREDIT: Dimitrios Panagos