On Sunday, November 19, 2023, The Olympic Club in San Francisco glowed with the warmth of the season as the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos hosted “Light the Path – A Christmas Luncheon.” This beloved gathering has become a favorite in the Metropolis of San Francisco with all the festivities aimed to support the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund.
Established over 25 years ago under the spiritual guidance of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, and with unwavering support from the Metropolis of San Francisco Ladies Philoptochos, this endowment fund remains committed to providing vital financial assistance for seminarians and students within the Metropolis of San Francisco pursuing education at Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. This noble vision of continues with the unwavering love and support of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos.
“I am grateful to each of you for making this event the recipient of your generosity, for there is no greater investment than the future of our Church,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. In speaking about our students and seminarians, Metropolitan Gerasimos continued, “Each of these students is walking along the path, illuminated by the Lord for what we hope will God-willing be a lifetime of service to the Church. These students are able to realize their dreams because of the encouragement of many people in this room today – family, friends, Philoptochos chapters – all of whom have shown them and their families love and support as they chart this important course towards their future.”
The luncheon drew over 200 guests who were treated to inspiring remarks from His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos; Metropolis of San Francisco President Jeannie Ranglas; and guest speaker George Cantonis, HCHC President. The festive ambiance was further enhanced by the enchanting Christmas melodies performed by “I Cantori di Carmel.” It was a special joy to feature three Metropolis of San Francisco seminarians – Demetrius Dogias, Jack McAfee, and Aaron Rice – who participated in an engaging panel discussion, sharing their experiences as students and the positive impact that Philoptochos has had on their lives.
President Jeannie Ranglas offered, “As we embrace the spirit of Christmas, a season of love, compassion, and giving, we come together to illuminate the path for these bright individuals who have committed their lives to serving our Church. It is fitting that we join hands today to support those who have chosen a path of service to our faith, embodying the values of selflessness and devotion. The students and seminarians of Hellenic College Holy Cross are not merely pursuing an education; they are on a sacred journey to deepen their understanding of the rich traditions that bind us together as a community as one family in Christ.”
The Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos has generously contributed over $1.6 million to alleviate the educational expenses of seminarians and students. This year's Light the Path luncheon proved to be exceptionally successful, with the generous contributions of sponsors helping raise nearly $175,000.
As the luncheon concluded, the sense of community, generosity, and shared commitment to education resonated, setting a positive tone for the upcoming holiday season. The Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos looks forward to continuing its impactful initiatives and lighting the path for many more students in the years to come.
For more information on the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos, please visit www.sfphiloptochos.org.
PHOTO CREDIT: Allen Altchech Photography