The Great Commission in the Parish

---

Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly Agenda 2019

The Great Commission in the Parish

“‘Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” Matthew 28: 19 – 20

Monday, March 4, 2019 10:00 a.m. Registration Opens (until 3:00 p.m.) 12:00 p.m. Lunch for early arrivals 1:00 p.m. Opening Prayer Service Appointment of Presiding Officer and Secretary Keynote Address 2:30 p.m. Break 2:45 p.m. First Presentation “What is Parish Health & Obstacles to Parish Health” 3:45 p.m. First Workshop – Discussion of Presentation 5:00 p.m. Great Vespers at the Monastery 6:30 p.m. Dinner 8:00 p.m. Second Presentation & Workshop “Hallmarks of Parish Health” 9:00 p.m. Evening Fellowship

Metropolitan Gerasimos Metropolitan Gerasimos Fr. Evan Armatas Fr. Evan Armatas Fr. Evan Armatas

Tuesday, March 5, 2019 8:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy at the Monastery Fifteen-Year Memorial Service for Metropolitan Anthony 11:00 a.m. Breakfast at the Monastery 11:45 a.m. Clergy-Laity Assembly Resumes 11:55 a.m. Approval of Minutes from the 2018 Clergy-Laity Assembly 12:00 p.m. Metropolis Council Report Fanis Economidis 2018 Metropolis Financial Report Michael Syrengelas 2019 Budget Presentation and Approval Michael Syrengelas National Ministries Commitment Fr. Aris Metrakos 2:00 p.m. Final Presentation, Workshop, and Wrap-Up Fr. Evan Armatas “Implementing a Health Plan” 3:30 p.m. Closing Remarks Metropolitan Gerasimos 4:00 p.m. Adjournment and Closing Prayer Metropolitan Gerasimos Refreshments

Please note that Clergy-Laity Assembly concludes at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5. The Ranch is a 45-minute drive from Fresno International Airport (FAT). In order to take advantage of the entire program, please schedule departing flights no earlier than 6:00 p.m.

CLERGY-LAITY ASSEMBLY MINUTES January 29 – 30, 2018

Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center – Squaw Valley, CA Convening of Assembly The 2018 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly was called to order at 1:30 p.m. by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, who led the delegates in an Opening Prayer Service, assisted by Rev. Father Peter Salmas. Metropolitan Gerasimos opened the floor for nominations for the Presiding Officer. Father Peter Salmas nominated Theofanis Economidis, seconded by Michael Syrengelas. Fanis was accepted by acclimation. Father Gary Kyriacou nominated Kristen Bruskas, seconded by Father Jon Magoulias. Kristen was accepted by acclimation. His Eminence also welcomed our featured speaker, Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas, to the ClergyLaity Assembly. He is a distinguished clergyman, who is well-experienced in the fields of psychotherapy and pastoral care. He is a graduate of Holy Cross School of Theology and currently resides in Greece. In the realm of his ministry, he has led many psychotherapeutic groups, particularly for couples, parents and young people. He has organized and participated in many educational seminars, training programs and conferences for clergy, doctors, nurses and social workers in Greece and abroad. Keynote Address Metropolitan Gerasimos presented a most inspirational Keynote Address which focused on the Assembly theme of “Peace”. He related this to the challenges in the social, moral, political and cultural realms of our lives. Families struggle to pass on faith and virtue, healthy values and character in their children. Each generation, in their own way, has experienced the anxieties caused by social changes. What is perhaps most different this time is the pace of the changes, the technology around them, and the global nature of them. As Orthodox Christians, we must begin with the words of the Lord and turn to the Church. Thus, we have our theme for this Assembly: “Peace I leave with you.” The Lord gives us peace, not the peace of the world, but His peace, “the peace from above,” as we say in the Divine Liturgy. We pray for peace many times in the Liturgy; every action of the Liturgy begins with a blessing for peace, from the opening petition, to our departure from the Liturgy itself, because ours is a God of peace. Because we are created in the image of the triune God; we are designed for community and communion, modeled after the life of the Trinity. Thus, if we are to find peace, we must first turn to the triune God, to renew ourselves in our Faith and life. What do we find when we turn to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; three persons living in perfect harmony and love and peace. Metropolitan Gerasimos concluded his remarks by once again welcoming all the delegates to the Assembly and to Saint Nicholas Ranch – a sacred place that emanates holiness and is an expression of our Orthodox faith. 1

Interactive Workshops The Assembly delegates participated in interactive workshops presented by the Metropolis Family Wellness Ministry, and the Missions and Evangelism Ministry. Featured Presentation Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas presented on the topic, “Leading the Church in a Chaotic World”. Father Kofinas is the Coordinator of the Network of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for Pastoral Health Care. His presentation focused on how globalization and commercialism have become the main denominators in shaping life in our present society. The emphasis on materialism has brought about a depersonalization of the human being, a depersonalization which has taken away from their ability to discern what they are, what they want to be. The cultural implications of this development have been decisive. These implications have also been decisive in the way the Church has developed. The changes that have taken place in the past two decades in our view and way of life have created fears on all levels of human existence. These changes have formed a chaotic world where moral and spiritual values are either annulled or distorted. The chaos brought on by globalization and materialism presents many difficulties and challenges for today’s Church leaders. What is a question now is the role of the leader must play and the direction that the Church must take. What is at stake is the salvation of mankind. Elections His Grace Bishop Apostolos is the chairman of the Elections Committee, assisted by Jeannie Ranglas and Isidoros Garifalakis. A presentation of the candidates nominated for the Metropolis Council was presented by Jeannie and Isidoros. The following people were presented on the ballot: Metropolis Council Clergy (eight to be elected) 1. Father Andrew Barakos 2. V. Rev. John Constantine 3. Father Dean Kouldukis 4. Father Dino Pappademos 5. Father Peter Salmas 6. Father Andrew Scordalakis 7. Father Peter Stratos 8. Father Tom Zaferes Metropolis Council Laity (eight to be elected) 1. Spiro Beckas 2. John Buzas 3. Honorable Steve Counelis 4. George Demos 5. Gerry Kamilos 6. Vasilis Marutsos 7. George Psefteas 8. Michael Syrengelas 9. Dr. Eve Tibbs 10. Ted Vavoulis

2

Archdiocesan Council Representatives from our Metropolis (one clergy and two laity) 1. Father Aris Metrakos 2. Mr. Isidoros Garifalakis 3. Mr. Rocky Sisson The delegates completed their ballots which were submitted for tabulation. The voting results will be announced on Tuesday. Leadership Survey Steve Tibbs distributed a Parish Leadership Survey which he asked the delegates to complete and return to him. In his ongoing efforts in Orthodox Leadership Development and Parish Strategic Planning, this information will be useful to him in developing additional and relevant resources for the benefit of our parishes. Recess The Assembly recessed at 10:00 p.m. and will resume in the morning following Divine Liturgy. Day Two Following Divine Liturgy and a fourteen-year Memorial Service for His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, the deliberations of the Clergy-Laity Assembly resumed at 11:30 a.m. with an opening prayer offered by Metropolitan Gerasimos. Video Conference with Archdiocese Treasurer Michael Psaros Michael Psaros joined the Assembly via video conferencing. He explained that the Archdiocese has been going through some very difficult times and that the executive leadership team has been working tirelessly to stabilize the dire financial situation. This has included making difficult decisions to reduce nearly one-third of the staff from the Archdiocese, implement better controls over spending, and initiate a detailed audit of the Archdiocese and Saint Nicholas Shrine. He reported that the Archdiocese has achieved financial stability which was realized through the reduction of spending by $8 million in just five months. It is the goal of the Archdiocese leadership to create a world-class non-profit institution. We need to document procedures that are presently verbal directives. That process will take time to make sure that these changes are structural and permanent. Election Results The following election results were announced by the committee: • •

•

All eight clergy were elected to the Metropolis Council The following eight lay representatives were elected to the Metropolis Council: 1. Spiro Beckas 2. John Buzas 3. Honorable Steve Counelis 4. George Demos 5. Vasilis Maroutsos 6. George Psefteas 7. Michael Syrengelas 8. Dr. Eve Tibbs The one clergy and two lay delegates to the Archdiocesan Council were elected. 3

Approval of Minutes A motion was made by Dr. Tanya Spirtos, seconded by Linda Billieros, to approve the minutes as distributed. Motion carried unanimously. Report of the Metropolis Council Fanis Economidis reported that the New Year is off to a busy start for the Metropolis. With the meetings of the Metropolis Council and Clergy-Laity Assembly being held within one month since the end of 2017, and having FDF just two weeks ago, there has been a lot of activity. This is a demonstration of the vibrancy of our Metropolis and that our work is consistent and continual, and this makes me very proud to be affiliated with our Metropolis under the distinguished and inspired leadership of Metropolitan Gerasimos. On Sunday night and Monday morning, the Metropolis Council met and had a very engaging meeting to discuss our ministries, review our finances, and look to the future so that our Metropolis can continuing being proactive in our work. Considerable amount of time was spent discussing the budget, and especially the funding of the Metropolis ministries. Fanis brought up that the challenges faced by our Archdiocese have also had an impact on our Metropolis and parishes. The presentation by Michael Psaros was very informative and our Metropolis is committed to following our established internal controls and procedures and we will review these in the coming months and make any recommendations as necessary to ensure ongoing transparency and accountability. When we embarked on the Strategic Plan, our Metropolis was challenged to chart a new course, to steer our ship in a more decisive direction, and to grow our Metropolis for the benefit of our faithful, and ultimately for their salvation. We have done that and more, yet there is still work to be done and more dreams to be realized. Fanis concluded by thanking Metropolitan Gerasimos, the Metropolis Council and Clergy-Laity Assembly for this honor to serve the Church through the good works of our Metropolis. Financial Report Treasurer Michael Syrengelas presented the 2018 Metropolis Financial Report. The expenses for the Metropolis exceeded the revenue by $157,570 which was largely due to the fact that we did not receive our bonus from Archdiocese. The Expense lines in the budget were fairly on target with the budget, and our Income tracked accordingly as well. Unrestricted Donations were at $128,973 thanks to the Faith Forward campaign under the leadership efforts of Isidoros Garifalakis. A question was raised about the Youth and Young Adult Ministry Income and Expense lines. The income is primarily the registration revenue for all other events and retreats besides Summer Camp. The expenses cover the associated costs for these events, as well as travel and other expenses for the Youth Director. A question was raised as to the $500 annual contribution from our parishes through the Metropolis Ministries Assessment which goes to support Saint Nicholas Ranch. Fanis explained that this was a decision of the Assembly a number of years ago, in lieu of asking our parishes to pass a tray and collect funds for the Ranch. 4

There was also an inquiry as to why the Archdiocese offers different medical insurance plans for clergy versus lay employees. The Archdiocese is the one who negotiates these plans. A motion was made by Father Tom Zaferes, seconded by Andrew Primis, to accept the financial report, and the 2018 Metropolis budget. Motion carried unanimously. It was suggested that we allocate $20,000 for a professional audit so that we can assure transparency and integrity in our accounting practices. The Metropolis Council will take this under advisement. National Ministries Allocation Father Aris Metrakos said that our Metropolis was assessed the same Supreme Number for 2018. He emphasized that information from our parishes needs to be submitted in a timely manner, but no later than May 15, 2019. Youth and Young Adult Ministries The delegates watched a video presentation from Steven Christoforou, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Archdiocese. His presentation focused on the new Policies for the Safety of Youth and Children. While the details of this program are still in final development, the implementation of these new policies will be mandatory by all our Metropolis ministries and our parishes. Johanna Duterte shared a presentation on the work of the Youth Office of the Metropolis. This includes Young Adult Retreats and Summer Camp. This year, the camp program is expanding to four weeks to meet the growing needs of this program. Philoptochos Jeannie Ranglas reported that the Metropolis Philoptochos continues to be dynamic in their work to help those in need. This is especially evident through the Kids ‘n’ Cancer ministry where they provide four camps in the Metropolis for children with cancer and their families. They also offer significant financial support to our students and Hellenic College Holy Cross, with nearly $170,000 provided to students from our Metropolis in 2017. This Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund is the only one of its kind in the Archdiocese, and our Philoptochos members, parishes and friends have been very generous in providing for this great need, seeing the promise it holds for our future as a Church. Metropolitan Gerasimos expressed his sincere gratitude to Jeannie for her dynamic leadership and tireless efforts to bring the mission and vision of Philoptochos off the page and into the forefront of our work. Metropolis Ministries Update Paul Gikas reported on the Metropolis Ministries. There is an overview of all the ministries on our website. The Mission of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and the Metropolis of San Francisco, is to proclaim the Gospel; teach and spread the Orthodox Faith; and energize and cultivate the life of the Metropolis according to the Orthodox Faith and Traditions. One of the ways the Metropolis of San Francisco accomplishes this task is through the work of its Ministries. He encouraged the delegates to take their binder home, read more about the ministries, and utilize the resources available for them personally and at the parish. 5

Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center Fanis Economidis reported that the Ranch has been working hard and is self-sustaining. They operate year-round and many demands are placed on the facilities and the limited staff at the Ranch. There were new groups at the Ranch in 2017 including the Metropolis Church Music Federation, a Pan-Orthodox Homeschooling Conference, and some of our parishes organized new retreats at the Ranch. Thanks to the generosity of the members of the Saint Nicholas Ranch Board, a new eight-passenger van was purchased and is of great assistance for their operations. Closing Remarks Metropolitan Gerasimos thanked the clergy and lay delegates for their enthusiastic participation in this year’s Assembly. He also conveyed his sincere gratitude to Fanis Economidis for the countless hours he volunteers for the Metropolis. The work of the Metropolis and its ministries does not just happen on its own, this work is from the power of prayer and the intervention of God in our lives. This past Sunday started the first week of Triodion, Metropolitan Gerasimos reminded us that prayer is the most powerful resource we have, and that as we prepare to approach Great Lent, we must focus on repentance and forgiveness. Metropolitan Gerasimos also thanked the Metropolis Staff for going above and beyond in their efforts to plan all the details of the Clergy-Laity Assembly, so that everyone would have a positive and edifying experience. In closing, His Eminence asked everyone to pray for the victims of the fires in Napa, Ventura and the mudslides in Montecito, and for our clergy who have been lovingly ministering to these people during a time of great need. Adjournment Father Peter Salmas made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Linda Billieros. Motion carried unanimously. The Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly adjourned at 4:00 p.m. with Metropolitan Gerasimos offering a closing prayer. Respectfully Submitted,

Kristen Bruskas Director of Development and Communications

6

Office of the Chancellor

Metropolis Council and Clergy-Laity Assembly March 3 – 6, 2019 With the departure of His Grace Bishop Apostolos of Medeia, the duties of the Office of the Chancellor are presently being managed by various clergy throughout the Metropolis. We work closely under the direction of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos to fulfill the varied duties of this position. Clergy Updates • Rev. Father Ninos Oshaana was assigned on January 1, 2019 as the Proistamenos at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Vallejo, CA. • Rev. Father Panteleimon Maillis was assigned on February 1, 2019 as the Proistamenos at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Tucson, AZ. • Rev. Father Michael Johnson retired as the Assistant Priest at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Seattle, WA in September 2018. • His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos bestowed the Offikion of Pnevmatikos on Rev. Father Ninos Oshaana. • Rev. Father Basil Rosu is assisting with Divine Liturgy on Sundays.at Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Chandler, AZ. • By the grace of God, Metropolitan Gerasimos will ordain Mr. Peter Dogias to the Diaconate on Saturday, March 9, 2019, and to the Holy Priesthood on Sunday, March 10, 2019. Both services will be held at his home parish of Annunciation in Sacramento, CA. Peter is in his final year at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and will graduate in May 2019. Clergy Synaxis and Retreats Clergy Continuing Education is an ongoing priority in our Metropolis. Immediately following the Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be the annual Metropolis Clergy Retreat led by Dr. Albert Rossi. The theme for the retreat is “In Becoming a Healing Presence, Prayer in NOT Optional”. Our Clergy Koinonia Group program has been implemented as of January 2019. There are nine (9) regional groups that meet monthly for discussion and reflection. The clergy leading these groups participated in a six-month training program in 2018. The Clergy Koinonia Group are designed to provide continuing education for our priests, strengthen of the bonds that unite our clergy through mutual support, and mentor newly ordained clergy. This will be a time for prayer, sharing experiences, joys, and struggles, and discussing issues related to the priesthood. 1

Parish Events Saint Katherine – Redondo Beach, CA His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos presided over the blessing of the new Narthex and Administration Center on September 8 – 9, 2018. The Medal of Saint Paul was presented to: George and Georgene Mitsanas, and Dr. Gus and Helen Dalis. Saint Paul – Irvine, CA His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos visited the Saint Paul parish in Irvine, CA on February 2 – 3, 2019 to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of this community. The Medal of Saint Paul was presented to: Alex Gorbenko, Dean Langis, Dorothea Love, Adam Mwesigwa, and Joanne Petas. Saint Anthony – Pasadena, CA Metropolitan Gerasimos bestowed the Medal of Saint Paul to John Vidalakis on Sunday, January 27, 2019. He also attended a Past Presidents Dinner to honor those who have served the parish in this leadership capacity. Immaculate Heart of Mary – Belmont, CA His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos was the guest homilist for the Solemn Vespers during the Week of Christian Unity. This service was held on Thursday, January 24, 2019, and is an annual event in cooperation with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco to pray for Christian unity and for those suffering persecution for their faith. Upcoming Services Forgiveness Vespers – Metropolitan Gerasimos will lead the beautiful service of Forgiveness Vespers on Sunday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. at Saint Anna Greek Orthodox Church in Roseville, CA. Great Compline – To mark the beginning Great Lent, Metropolitan Gerasimos will pray the Great Compline service on Kathara Deftera on Monday, March 11 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco, CA Pan-Orthodox Vespers – His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos will be joined by His Eminence Metropolitan Nikitas of the Dardanelles, and His Grace Bishop Maxim of the Serbian Orthodox Western Diocese for Pan-Orthodox Vespers on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Long Beach. The event will begin with a Youth Rally at 4:30 p.m., Great Vespers at 5:30 p.m. and then a Reception and Fundraiser following to benefit the Theotokos Girls and Boys Orphanage in Bakeswar, India. Emmy® award winning actor and devoted Orthodox Christian, Jonathan Jackson, will be a featured guest for this event. Salutations of the Holy Cross On Thursday, April 4, 2019, Metropolitan Gerasimos will preside over the service of Salutations to the Holy Cross at the Holy Cross Church in Belmont, CA. We will welcome His Excellency Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone as the guest homilist for this annual service which brings together Orthodox and Catholic faithful to venerate a relic of the Holy Cross. Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Father Peter Salmas, Vicar 2

Report of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Arts and Architecture Committee Metropolis Council Meeting Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center March 4-5, 2019 With the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Arts and Architecture Committee continues to work with parishes seeking to beautify their church structures with appropriate iconography, develop a Master Plan for new building structures on existing sites, as well as remodel or modify existing parish facilities. The Arts and Architecture Committee continues to monitor the progress of several parishes and their projects to build, upgrade, remodel or improve their campus structures: • • • •

Iconographic proposal bids have been received from three iconographers for the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Sophia in Bellingham, WA. No decisions have been made and proposals have not been submitted to MSFAA committee for review. Construction continues on The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in San Francisco, CA. Exterior of the building is nearing completion along with full access to parking structure. Iconographic work continues in the Church of the Assumption in Long Beach, CA., the Church of Saint Demetrios in Camarillo, CA., and the Church of Saint John the Baptist in Las Vegas. Solar panels to be installed at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Cardiff by the Sea, CA.

The Greek Orthodox MSFAA committee notes that all submittals are following the guidelines of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan UPR. This allows for a proper review by the committee before forwarding recommendations to His Eminence for approval.

Respectfully submitted, Father Peter G. Salmas Chair [email protected]

Report of the Internal Audit Committee to the Metropolis Council January 25, 2019 Introduction The stated purpose of the Internal Audit is “to conduct internal audits, review internal financial statements, and verify the existence of accounting procedures,” as noted in the Metropolis Council Committees definition. As such, the Audit Committee may recommend implementation and enforcement of such internal controls that ensure compliance with good management and accounting practices. Meeting and Discussion Last year, the committee reported on the importance of implementing and maintaining "Best practices" in the ministries of the Metropolis, and attached to its report, dated January 3, 2018, a "Best Practices Checklist for Nonprofits,” as recommended by the IRS. (This checklist is also appended to the present report.) The Regulations, including the Archdiocesan Regulations and Uniform Metropolis Regulations, 2012, as amended, also apply. The Audit Committee typically reviews bank statements, financial statements and any other pertinent information to the internal audit of our ministries. Our aim is to ensure that the best practices are applied. This year, the Audit Committee will examine best practices for the Folk Dance and Choral Festival ministry of our Metropolis, and requests that bank statements, meeting minutes, a P & L and balance sheet for 2018 (January 1 through December 31) be made available to the Committee for this purpose. The committee plans to begin its review in March, 2019. In the recent past, the committee conducted reviews of St. Nicholas Ranch, C.O.M.E., and our Metropolis Office. Respectfully submitted, Rev. Stephen H. Kyriacou Philippos Athanasiades Attachment: Nonprofit Checklist

Rev. Thomas Zaferes

BEST PRACTICES CHECKLIST FOR NONPROFITS Financial Management  The nonprofit has a good financial plan that provides for financial resources that support the programs and services consistent with the nonprofit’s mission.  The nonprofit produces and reviews financial statements regularly that are reviewed by both the board of directors and a CPA. See Required Documents for the Financial Management Standard at the end of this section.  The nonprofit utilizes a strategic budgeting process that reflects the nonprofit’s needs and objectives.  The nonprofit develops an annual budget and regularly monitors the budget to determine/evaluate/respond to any variations.  The nonprofit provides financial information to interested parties such as the board of directors and grantors, particularly for decision-making purposes.  The nonprofit has a diversity of resources; analyzes its mix of public and private funding at least annually; projects future gains and losses in various sources of revenue; and has a contingency plan for responding to unexpected reductions or increases in any of these resources. Are there known events that may impact your fiscal situation?  If the nonprofit liabilities exceed assets (the current statement of revenues and expenses show a deficit), there is a realistic plan to decrease these liabilities.  If a line of credit exists, does it hit $0 at any point during the fiscal year?  The nonprofit has a realistic fundraising plan with activities and goals. Are the goals in the fundraising plan clearly tied to the annual budget? Are staff and volunteers who have primary responsibility for fundraising identified? Be sure you can describe who is responsible for fundraising and his/her role.  The nonprofit has formal internal controls governing all financial operations. For example, does the nonprofit have written policies that govern separation of responsibilities with respect to receiving, recording and depositing checks, purchasing, expense accounts and compensation with oversight from senior staff and the board?  The nonprofit has adequate cash flow for normal operations  The nonprofit has less than 50% of accounts receivable 120 days or older.  The nonprofit does not utilize restricted funds to subsidize current year expenses.

 The nonprofit has specific plans to meet any cash and in-kind matches that are required by a grant.  The nonprofit prepares an annual report, including statements of financial condition, revenue and expense and makes this annual report available to interested persons and stakeholders.  The nonprofit has and adheres to board policies and guidelines for management of lines of credit, endowments funds and other secured/unsecured funds (if applicable).  The nonprofit has a written Policy On Reserves explaining how funds are designated to cover unexpected expenses and what the nonprofit plans to do with unexpended revenues at the end of the fiscal year.  The nonprofit has at least 60 days of operating reserves in cash or cash equivalent unrestricted assets.  The nonprofit has a development plan with measureable targets, deadlines and responsible parties and the goals tie directly to the annual budget.  The nonprofit has a well-developed and comprehensive evaluation system used to measure and report the impact of each of its programs and services that can be used for grant reporting and stakeholder/public accountability.  100% of the board financially contributes to the nonprofit.  The nonprofit has a computerized accounting system. Required Documents for the Financial Management Standard: o Current balance sheet. o Current statement of revenues and expenses which includes comparison of actual v. budget. o Current budget Fundraising plan Reserves policy Current audit or independent review Optional Documents:  Financial policies and procedures  Fundraising policies Governance & Operations  The nonprofit has an active and independent board of directors and/or other governing body. (Independent is defined as a majority of board members who are not employees of the nonprofit.)  The governing board formulates budgetary priorities, adopts an annual budget prior to the start of the fiscal year and adopts a funding plan for securing resources to implement the nonprofit’s annual goals and objectives.  The minutes of the board reflect that the governing board sets policy, garners resources, assesses needs and approves/establishes programs.  The membership, structure and procedures of the governing board are designed to enable the nonprofit to effectively perform its duties.

 The composition of the governing board includes the different kinds of skills, knowledge and experience necessary for the performance of its duties (e.g., lawyer, accountant, fundraising expert, public relations).  Each member of the board understands and can articulate the nonprofit’s mission. The board reviews the nonprofit mission statement periodically, revises it as needed and ensures the goals of each program are consistent with the mission.  The board regularly examines the nonprofit financial statements and discusses questions, concerns, issues, i.e. the board takes responsibility for the financial health of the nonprofit.  A realistic and well-considered budget is prepared and approved by the board. The board ensures that management has realistically planned and monitored cash flow to be able to meet nonprofit obligations.  The governing Board has procedures for taking action on essential matters between its regularly scheduled meetings and when it is not possible for the full body to meet.  The governing board participates in a multi-year planning process every 2-5 years with staff that identifies internal and external conditions. The governing board approves the plan and reviews the plan’s progress annually.  The nonprofit has a conflict of interest policy for members of the governing board (including permissible and non-permissible financial or personal dealing with the nonprofit, disclosure of any financial interest in the nonprofit business and situations in which board member are required to abstain from voting). A conflict of interest statement is signed annually by each board member.  The board meets frequently enough to effectively monitor the finances and programs of the nonprofit and at least four times per year.  The board has subcommittees as needed to effectively monitor and achieve the nonprofit mission.  The board has good attendance for board meetings and regularly achieves a quorum.  The full and subcommittee board minutes reflect engagement and decision making that matches with other standards (i.e. passage of the budget, review of the audit, evaluation of the CEO) and important actions of the board?  The board provided leadership for the development of a strategic planning document, approved it, and takes responsibility for supporting and monitoring it.  The board has a strong relationship with the CEO/Executive Director.  The board of directors, employee and volunteer structure is of adequate

size and representation given the mission and programs of the nonprofit.  The nonprofit provides staff and volunteers with written job descriptions and the necessary resources to carry out duties appropriately?  An individual is designated to be responsible in the absence of the CEO/Executive Director and a succession plan is in place for senior management.  The nonprofit has insurance that covers any needed professional liability for employees, facility coverage, and directors and officers coverage.  Board reviews and signs IRS Form 990 prepared by accountant.  Each board member has a copy of and operates within the nonprofit Articles and By-laws. The Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws clearly state the purpose(s)/mission of the nonprofit. The nonprofit is legally authorized to operate as one of the following: a. Not-for-profit incorporated in the State of Indiana. A nonprofit with its own governing or advisory board organized as an identified part of another nonprofit which is incorporated and is one of the following: a. A 501(c)(3) not-for-profit as determined by the IRS b. A nonprofit organized as an identified part of another nonprofit which has been determined by the IRS as a 501(c)(3)  The nonprofit Articles of Incorporation and/or By-Laws contain the following: a. Clearly stated mission of the nonprofit. b. Tenure of members such that the governing board does not become selfperpetuating. c. Descriptions of the standing committees. d. Requirements for a quorum. e. Procedures for elections of board members and officers. f. Procedures for the filling of vacancies. g. Procedures for amending the by-laws. Required Documents for the Governance and Operating Standard  Articles and By-Laws.  Governing board roster (indicate officers, number of year on board, start and end 
date of current term).   needed.    

Nonprofit Organizational Chart. Board minutes recorded and preserved that can be produced when Management agreement with parent corporation (if applicable). IRS tax exempt letter. Secretary of State annual filing. Annual 990 tax return (not required by churches).

 Equal opportunity statement.  Conflict of Interest statement. Nonprofit Mission  The nonprofit has a written mission statement that provides a clear expression of the nonprofit’s reason for existence.  The mission is clearly communicated and understood by ALL stakeholders within the nonprofit through meetings, annual report, website, etc.  The nonprofit has a clear and coherent written plan for the future, i.e. 310 year strategic plan with well defined, measurable and achievable goals and action steps with timeframes.  The strategic plan is communicated, well known and understood by the staff and board.  The strategic plan is supported with a realistic and detailed annual plan that outlines the specific work to be accomplished and the annual plan consistently used at all levels of the nonprofit to direct operations.  The nonprofit has a well-developed and comprehensive evaluation system used to measure and evaluate the effectiveness and impact of its programs and services.  The nonprofit collects data to measure performance and progress on an ongoing basis which is analyzed and communicated to stakeholders on a regular basis through grant reports, annual reports, website, etc.

February 5, 2019 From: Father Aris P. Metrakos To: Metropolis Council Subject: National Ministries Allocation Update 1. The parishes of the Metropolis contributed an aggregate of $3,384,900 to National Ministries in 2017, exceeding the Metropolis Supreme Number of $3,327,897. As a consequence, an additional $109,310 (2% of the Supreme Number plus 75% of the money in excess of Supreme Number) should be credited to the Metropolis. The Holy Cross Belmont and the Ascension Cathedral made herculean efforts to reach their 2019 allocations and the SF Cathedral stepped forward as well with a sacrificial year-end payment. 2. The parishes and cathedrals will receive a link to their online National Ministries Data Form before the end of February. In completing this form, churches are asked to do the following: a. Submit complete and detailed Income & Expense (Profit & Loss) and Balance Sheets as requested in the instructions that will be included with the link to the online data form. These should be the same forms that are used for the internal management of the parish, not special forms created for this purpose. b. Cross-reference specific items on the Data Form with the financial reports and/or annotate them so that the members of the Metropolis Finance Committee can check the accuracy of the reported data. Cross-referenced and annotated data minimize the time that these volunteers must spend on checking the data. c. Submit the Data Form and accompanying financial data by the appointed deadline of May 15. During the summer, representatives from every Metropolis meet in order to check one another’s National Ministries Data Forms. Every year, the members of the SF Metropolis Finance Committee find themselves having to repeatedly contact churches that miss the reporting deadline. Many parishes submit incomplete information and/or are non-responsive. This means that the members of our Finance Committee have found themselves finalizing data for the summer meeting literally while en route to this meeting. d. Some additional information will be requested of parishes as part of an Archdiocese study to determine whether or not to switch to an income based allocation formula. 3. Per a decision of the Archdiocese Council, the Supreme Number for the Metropolis remains $3,327,897. This does not mean that every parish received the same individual allocation in 2019 as in 2018. The Allocations Committee, with the subsequent approval of His Eminence, made individual allocations predicated on the financial reporting and conditions of the parishes of the Metropolis in order to maximize the probability of reaching the Supreme Number in 2019. Faithfully, Father Aris P. Metrakos [email protected] 415.308.4851

Fundraising and Development Report March 3, 2019

The Fundraising and Development Committee is an important component of the Metropolis infrastructure. Our efforts provide financial support for our operations and for the growth of our ministries. Faith Forward Faith Forward is the annual fundraising appeal for our Metropolis. In 2017, we raised $110,105 through contributions received by 128 people contributing $110,105. It had been our goal to raise $150,000 in 2018, and I am pleased to report that we increased participation to 154 donors who contributed $219,035, which includes one major gift of $100,000. We will continue to promote Faith Forward through this spring and invite everyone to participate in this important program that supports our Metropolis. Even in these early months of 2019, we have already collected $11,375 from 14 donors. Online contributions can be made securely at: www.sanfran.goarch.org/donate. The Metropolis is very appreciative of the generous support we have received through this initiative, and I hope that we will continue to grow Faith Forward. Faith Forward is an ongoing program and we invite anyone to be a steward of our Metropolis with any level of gift. We also invited our parishes to become Faith Forward stewards of our Metropolis. We can also accommodate people who wish to donate on a monthly basis, or make multi-year gifts. Metropolis Gala The 2018 Metropolis Gala was held on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort in Huntington Beach, CA. At this event we honored the extraordinary leadership of Dr. James and Virginia Kallins, who have been exceptional stewards and generous benefactors of our Metropolis, Archdiocese, and Ecumenical Patriarchate. We raised $180,000 in support of our Metropolis. The Gala was led by Demo and Chrissie Zeppos who worked with a dedicated team of volunteers and staff to make this a most memorable evening to honor the Kallins’ as well as celebrate the ministries of our Metropolis. A record 450 people were in attendance. Charlie and Vlas Parlapanides served as the Masters of Ceremony. The Parlapanides brothers are successful producers and screenwriters in Hollywood, and they are devoted Greek Orthodox Christians who attend parishes in southern California. Archons Sponsor Dinner at FDF The Archons from our Metropolis generously contributed $38,000 to underwrite a dinner honoring His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios upon his visit to the 2019 Folk Dance and Choral Festival. This event was held upon the occasion of his 20th year as Archbishop of America. Nearly 130 people attended this dinner in Ontario, CA at which the Archbishop Demetrios was presented with a donation of $20,000 for the Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship Fund, which the Archbishop established with his brother in 2011, in memory of their beloved parents. I look forward to working together with the Metropolis Council, our clergy and our lay leaders to be visionary in our goals. We have many ministries and programs that need our support and your continued participation is needed and very much appreciated. Sincerely,

Isidoros Garifalakis [email protected], 360-901-4637

INSURANCE & REAL ESTATE COMMITTEE REPORT

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Metropolis Council Meeting-Clergy Laity Assembly March 03, 2019

The loss of Ted Laliotis to this committee is tremendous. Ted was a great friend, Archon brother and co-worker in the vineyard of the lord. Ted’s memory will live on through this committee and will be an inspiration to all of us. Memory Eternal.

Insurance: Paul Sogotis report follow-up Real Estate: Transaction Requests: The Insurance and Real Estate committee has been busy working with many parishes on multiple Real Estate Transactions. Presently, there are no files ready to be presented to His Eminence for approval and this report. A reminder that all Metropolis Real Estate Transactions require the Metropolitan’s blessings for Approval and should be sent to the Insurance and Real Estate committee for review. Respectfully Submitted, George Peter Psihogios, Chair [email protected] 503-515-8100 On behalf of: Fr. Andrew Barakos Paul Sogotis Gerry Kamilos

John S. Buzas

Attorney at Law 1570 Rose Avenue San Marino, CA 91108 Tel: 626.345.4159: E-mail: [email protected]

March 4, 2019 To:

His Eminence, Metropolitan Gerasimos; Vice-Chairman Fanis Economidis; Clergy; members of the Metropolis Council; and Laity of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco REPORT OF THE LEGAL COMMITTEE

I have served as Chair of the Metropolis Legal Committee at the request of His Eminence, Metropolitan Gerasimos and Fanis Economidis for the past eight (9) years. Prior to my appointment I had served on the Metropolis Legal Committee for several years along with Elenie Huszagh. Elenie not only founded the Metropolis Legal Committee in 2007 but she also very capably chaired the committee since its inception with great wisdom and distinction. At the time of its formation our Metropolis’ Legal Committee was believed to be the first of its kind in the entire Archdiocese. Initially, the only other standing Legal Committee was part of the Archdiocesan Council. The Mission and Purpose of the Legal Committee is: 1. To Provide legal services and advice to His Eminence and the Metropolis as they may be needed; 2. To assist in matters involving real estate, estate planning, employment issues and other legal risk management matters not necessarily involving litigation; 3. To assist in matters of Parish Administration when requested by His Eminence; 4. To assist in matters of Claims and Litigation when necessary; and refer such matters to the Archdiocese as appropriate; 5. To prepare forms and guides which may be used by Parishes in meeting the requirements of the UPRs; and, 6. To provide appropriate referrals to other attorneys when needed for matters which may not be within the expertise of a member(s) of the Metropolis of San Francisco Legal Committee. Attorneys of each of the jurisdictions (States) in which a Parish of the Metropolis of San Francisco is located have been contacted and have agreed to serve on the Legal Committee pro bono. The Legal Committee has completed work on various legal issues including but not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Model bequest and estate planning documents formatted to be used for individuals for consideration and use in making gifts to the Metropolis of San Francisco; Liability Releases for Parishes to use in connection with parish events and off premises trips as well as for other purposes; Employment questionnaires as well as acceptable pre-employment inquiry checklists; Documents for by the Real Estate/Insurance Committees and Parishes working on matters involving mainly real estate and construction issues (contracts, purchase and sale documents, mortgages etc.) as specified in the UPRs.

Recent and pending activities of the Metropolis Legal Committee include: California Board of Equalization Sales Tax Exemptions: (Interface with venues by providing Customized Attorney Opinion Letters and Resale Certificate Preparation). Result: Sales Tax Exemption for all Meals and Food Products Served at religious events according to BOE regulations. Metropolis of San Francisco Gala(s) resulting in several $6,000 Tax Exemptions. FDF: BOE Sales Tax Exemption achieved for all meals and food products served during the FDF providing the ministry with approximate $30,000.00+ of yearly savings to their bottom-line. Further Examples: BOE Sales Tax Exemption achieved for:

Light the Path: Bishop Anthony Annual Luncheon to benefit The Bishop Anthony Seminarian Scholarship Fund. PAOI Event late in Los Angeles resulting in approximate $4,000.00 savings. Saint Sophia Philoptochos Debutante Ball at the Beverly Wilshire with approximate $10,000.00 savings and Saint Sophia Philoptochos Annual Mother’s Day Luncheon with similar annual savings. Saint Anthony Philoptochos Christmas Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon Fundraiser. …and many others. Partial List of specific services examples that the Legal Committee provides are:

● ● ● ● ●

Advised and assisted 2 Parishes (St. Demetrios, Tucson, Arizona and St Gregory, El Cajon, CA) that suffered fire damage and losses during their recovery periods to make appropriate claims and during their replacement, repair, construction, and/or relocation decisions. Advising St. Katherine, Chandler Arizona in their efforts to select a lender to refinance the Parish debt at more favorable rates. Completed Refinance In process of advising St. Nicholas, Temecula, CA acquiring new church site and building property in Murietta, California At the Metropolitan and Chancellor’s request meet with Parish Councils to address community issues in an advisory capacity. Ongoing Parish By-Law Review: Additional Legal Volunteers are being sought who are familiar with Parish By-Law drafting and content review to assist in this very time consuming process). A special committee has been established to assist parishes to create or review by-laws submitted to the committee for approval

●

Reviewed and Assisted in a Property Line issues for Saint Anna Parish, Roseville, CA culminating in an agreed upon License Agreement ● Eminent Domain assistance and referrals to appropriate professional. ● Liability Release Modifications (Individual Parish Requests). ● St. Nicholas Ranch IRS Audit for Employee Withholdings with Metropolis CPA Nick Tarlson. ● Interfacing and communicating with the Metropolitan, Chancellor and supporting personnel at the Metropolis level to provide legal counsel on an “on call basis”. ● Review and Track estate bequests to the Metropolis. Assign local attorneys in the jurisdiction where the estate is being administered to take lead responsibility with periodic reporting to the Metropolis Legal Committee. Regional members of the Metropolis Legal Committee: All of the attorneys who have been appointed to serve accepted on the Legal Committee have agreed to do so “pro bono”. The Members of the Legal Committee are: Alaska Arizona California California Hawaii Nevada Oregon Washington

Pending Alexander Poulos (Northern) Peter A. Bagatelos (Southern) John S. Buzas, Metropolis Legal Counsel Pending Gus W. Flangas – Flangas, McMillan Law Group George Gregores – Holland & Knight Zachary H. Stoumbos – Landerholm, Memovich, Lansverk & Whitesides, P.S.

Employment Law: Maria Anastas, Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins Counsel at Large: Dean Pappas – Goodwin Proctor, Los Angeles, California (Real Estate Speciaist)l

March 2019

A Report for the Metropolis Council and Clergy Laity Assembly of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco by Eve Tibbs [email protected]

Live, Face-to-Face Discussions

We are now in the fourth year of regular face-to-face monthly online meetings of Church School Directors throughout our metropolis and the number of attendees continues to grow. We meet monthly online at 7:00 pm (7:30 during Great Lent) typically on the 4th Monday of the month. Directors have expressed their gratitude at being able to share ideas and solutions with one another. Please let your parish Religious Ed Director(s) know about this in case word has not reached them. Participants should send an email to: [email protected].

Upcoming meetings Monday, March 25, 2019—7:30 pm Monday, May 27, 2019—7:00 pm Dear friends, It is an honor to connue to represent Chrisan Educaon as the “Ministry Lead.” Chrisan Educaon is essenal for all ages, and especially for adults. Adults who are educated in their Orthodox Chrisan Faith are more likely to parcipate in the liturgical life of the Faith and grow in grace in order to direct others in the Faith. Because we are so geographically- dispersed as a metropolis, we will connue to ulize technology as much as possible in offering teacher training, and regular adult Chrisan Educaon webinars ulizing the experse of clergy and scholars within our metropolis. A weekly adult basic theology series is planned for early Fall ( dates TBA). (Continued on page 2)

Father Jacob Saylor, Assistant Priest and Youth Director at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Scottsdale, AZ. was the guest speaker at the January 2019 online Church School Directors’ meeting. Fr. Jacob offered philosophical wisdom and practical advice based on his extensive experience in Youth and Young Adult ministry. To sum up his excellent hour-long presentation: What has proven most-effective for Youth and Young Adults can be applied to all ministry: “Focus on Jesus Christ!”

Christian Education — March 2019

Page 2

(Continued from page 1)

Plans are also underway for the Metropolislevel Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Fesval, to take place May 11, 2019 at St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center. This year’s Metropolis theme is “Do not be afraid but keep speaking and do not be silent.” Acts 18.9. Every year 10 Junior (7th-9th grade) and 10 Senior (10th-12th grade) District Finalists and their families make their way to Saint Nicholas Ranch for the Saturday morning Fesval. We are also grateful that six highly-qualified judges (3 for the Junior level and 3 for the Senior level) share their me and experse on that day. You can parcipate in this ministry by encouraging your parish to host a parish-level Fesval. The District and Metropolis Fesvals are also “open to the public” and are inspiraonal events for everyone who a?ends—speakers and listeners alike!

Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival | Metropolis-Level Speakers | May 2018

For more information, visit the Christian Education Ministry Page at:

www.sanfran.goarch.org or the dedicated website: www.religioused.sanfran.goarch.org

GREEK ORTHODOX METROPOLIS OF SAN FRANCISCO

CHURCH MUSIC FEDERATION MINISTRY

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16 Report of the GOMSF Church Music Federation Ministry: For 73 years, The Church Music Federation Ministry has been an active resource for all churches in our Metropolis who seek instructional platforms for their church musicians. There are currently 900+ active adult and youth choir members, directors, chanters, composers, organists, Hierarchs and priests in our Metropolis. 2018 Federation events: •

•

• • •

•

The Church Music Federation Ministry transition to replace the current management of the organization is under way. Ministry Team Leaders have begun to build their teams, define, refine, and put into action their strategic plans in order to carry out the work of the ministry. Current members of the board will be working as part of these teams or in a leadership roles. During the Spring the a Church Music Institute on the topic of the Eight Resurrectional Apolytikia was held in Pasadena, California at St. Anthony Greek Orthodox Church on March 10, 2018. Assistant priest, Rev. Fr. Chris Retalas, gave an enlightening talk to the 26 attendees from 7 different parishes. Also in the spring the Church Music Federation Ministry announced that the new website had been completed by Dr. Eve Tibbs. The website is: www.sfchurchmusic.org. On September 22, 2018 St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church in Reno hosted it's first Church Music Institute and Rev. Fr. Stephen Karcher spoke on Hymnology in a Liturgy and Dr. Tikey Zes was the facilitator. The CMI was well received. That same day at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Phoenix, AZ, held the first-ever Pan-Orthodox choral music, "One Day, One Hymn, One Voice". Fr. Michael Pallad (St. Haralambos parish priest and Spiritual Advisor for the Church Music Federation Ministry) organized the event to bring together voices from the various Orthodox Christian Parishes in song. The Hymn, "Psalm 23", written and conducted by Fr. Pallad, was a new composition for mixed voices. The event was sponsored by OCCF, Orthodox Christian Choral Fellowship. A great success! The 2018 Church Music Musicians Conference was held at St. Spyridon Church in San Diego, CA on August 24 – 26th with the 85 church music participants. o Two conducting workshops were offered, a Beginner's Workshop, lead by Chrysanthy Therianos and Intermediate/Advanced Conductor's Workshop, lead by Dr. Tikey Zes. o Dr. Eve Tibbs spoke on - Growing a Multi-Generational Church Music Program in Parishes Large and Small. o Michelle Patsakis gave a workshop on Vocal Techniques. o Rev. Fr. Michael Pallas gave an excellent talk on the "Theology of the Liturgy". All workshops were well received.

2019 Federation events: • A one day Church Music Institute was held on Saturday, January 19 to learn more about the beautiful Cherubic Hymn at Assumption Church in Scottsdale, AZ . The Liturgical Lecture was given by Fr. Michael Pallad. The two music facilitators were Choir Director Kristen Bruskas and Chant Facilitator Samuel Herron. Twenty church musicians representing the parishes of Holy Trinity Cathedral, Phoenix, AZ, Assumption, Scottsdale, AZ, St. Haralambos, Peoria, AZ, and St. Demetrios, Tucson, AZ, participated that day. • The Secondary Business meeting will be Saturday, April 13th in Tucson, AZ. • The 2019 Annual Church Musicians Conference will be November 14 -17th, 2019 at St. Nicholas Ranch, Dunlap, CA.

Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth Levy, President (925) 336-9502

www.sfchurchmusic.org

CLERGY CONTINUING EDUCATION KOINONIA GROUPS

(Clergy Peer Learning Groups/Communities of Practice) In May, 2018 an initial clergy peer learning group was formed at the direction of His Eminence, Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, drawing the following priests together from throughout the Metropolis: Father Andrew Barakos; Father Photius Dumont; Father Christos Kanakis; Father Gary Kyriacou; Father Jerry Markopoulos; Father Aris Metrakos; Father Dino Pappademos; Father James Retelas; Father Peter Salmas; Father Steven Tsichlis and Father Tom Zaferes. This first session was led by Deacon Stephen Muse, Ph.D. of the Pastoral Institute in Columbus, Georgia. We were encouraged by Deacon Stephen to meet on a monthly basis for the next nine months and we did. Our initial meetings were held at Holy Trinity in San Francisco; subsequent meetings were held at the Ascension Cathedral in Oakland. At our meeting in October, 2018 Dr. Al Rossi, a clinical psychologist and professor at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in NY, led us in facilitator training. At the suggestion of Dr. Rossi our group was further expanded to include: Father John Constantine; Father Michael Courey; Father Andrew Skordalakis; and Father Tom Tsagalakis.

1

His Eminence has asked that our meetings be monthly. As of this writing, our Koinonia groups have begun meeting in San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, LA and Phoenix with others to follow soon and the results have been very encouraging to the clergy participating. IN FORMING SUCH COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE AMONG PRIESTS IN THE VARIOUS REGIONS OF OUR METROPOLIS OUR HOPE IS TO: • • • • •

Promote peer learning to sustain priests in every season of their ministry Gather and share wisdom from the field of parish ministry Facilitate social/relational connections that inspire pastoral excellence Offer prayerful support for one another Bring together priests/leaders to engage the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in the Church and the world

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. ~Hebrews 10:23-25 2

KOINONIA CLERGY GROUPS Clergy Peer Learning Groups/Communities of Practice “Encourage one another and build each other up…” -1 Thessalonians 5:11 Our clergy Koinonia groups are small groups of parish priests intentionally focused on learning how to better do what we do as pastors as we interact through a trained facilitator to gather wisdom from the perspectives and practices of others in the group. 1. The Focus is Parish Ministry. Peers are identified by their shared interest (passion) in and their commitment to the ongoing development of competence in ministry. There are topics, issues, and concerns that form a common domain of interest that creates a bond among participants. 2. Community is Essential. As parish priests engage in discussions, shared activities, help each other, and share relevant information with one another, they build relationships and peer members come to share their deepest questions, their expertise, as well as their uncertainties. Mutual accountability becomes a way of caring for one another. 3. Knowledge is Practice-Based. Knowledge within a peer group is developed and is tested through actual practice as it is refined into common wisdom. Skill develops with the peer group as it helps its members to craft practices that members can use to address specific issues on the growing edges of their ministry. The combination of all three is needed to create a clergy peer learning group. Each requires emphasis. The Koinonia Group Facilitator reviews which of these dimensions is strong and/or which needs attention. A careful cultivation of each of these brings about the potential of a peer group to become a valued and trusted resource in the lives of parish priests. Purpose of Clergy Koinonia Groups • • • • • • •

Offering care, support and accountability Nurturing practices of prayer and spiritual discipline Developing the “craft” of parish ministry and strengthening practices of pastoral leadership Engaging in theological reflection on pastoral identity and parish ministry Fostering a sense of shared parish ministry; as a shared, collegial endeavor Forming life-sustaining friendships Renewing one’s call and commitment to ministry in the Name of Christ Jesus 3

One of the key elements in the process of forming Clergy Koinonia Groups is the choosing of properly trained facilitators who will foster an environment of learning, mutual support, accountability and prayerful encouragement. Characteristics of an Effective Group Facilitator • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

Experienced priests/pastors who love ministry Have known enough of the difficulties of church and parish life not to be surprised by the challenges of parish ministry Belong to and serve in healthy and vital parishes Deeply faithful and theologically inquisitive and articulate Emotionally mature Intellectually curious, see themselves as learners, eager to continue developing as pastoral leaders Respected by their peers Good relationship with and participation in the wider Church Generous with their time and energy Respond quickly and creatively to new opportunities Confident in their own gifts … but humbly do not see themselves as ‘experts.’ Good listeners Good at asking questions and inviting others to explore issues more deeply Hold a clear and deeply theological sense of what it means to offer hospitality to others The Role of the Facilitator Host. Provides/secures group space, meals and ensures that there will be no distractions or interruptions Administrator. Keeps the meeting calendar, sends reminders, keeps track of the group agenda from meeting to meeting and writes and sends reports as may be needed to the Metropolitan. Facilitator. Attends the group process, listening more than speaking, asking questions rather than making statements, trusting the wisdom in the room and drawing it out, working to help the conversation move more deeply. The facilitator invites group members at every meeting to review learning, evaluate the group’s process, and discern next steps. Covenant Keeper. Calls the group back when it strays from its best intentions, including ensuring that air time is shared, complaining is kept to a minimum, advice giving is restrained, and every member is held in high regard both personally and pastorally. Creates an atmosphere of safety, confidentiality and mutual accountability, following up in the next meeting regarding goals and actions priests may have set for themselves.

4

“What can I offer? How can I help you carry so heavy a burden? Take courage, my dear friend. For whenever it proves possible for you to have a respite from the cares of your office, I will come to your side and encourage you and nothing shall be left undone that lies within my power.” - St. John Chrysostom speaking to his recently ordained friend Basil from his book, On the Priesthood

Father Steven Tsichlis St. Paul’s Church Irvine, CA [email protected] 949-733-2366

5

Family Wellness Ministry Update 2018 & 2019 ROAD MAP

submitted by George Papageorge, M.F.T., Director and Presvytera Pat Tsagalakis, Assistant Director

OUR FOCUS: TEAMWORK / TRAINING / CONNECTION in LOCAL PARISHES Family W ellness Ministry in 2019 is about TEAMWORK. W e recognize the great joy in sharing meaningful ministry TOGETHER and look forward to cultivating opportunities for communication, collaboration, trainings, workshops and retreats for laity and clergy throughout the Metropolis.

Our “Join TEAM W ELLN ESS” cam paign w ill be reaching out to hold Four Regional Events:

“Team Wellness” Training Events Pacific Northwest: March 22 & 23 Northern California: September 13 & 14 Southwest: September 27 & 28 Southern California: October 18 & 19

CLERGY CONNECTION

During each designated weekend, we will create opportunities for clergy and presvyteres to gather, connect and share our vision for ways Family Wellness can be integrated in parish ministry.

AMBASSADOR TRAINING and STRATEGIC PLANNING During our Regional Training Events – we will unfold our vision, train and empower LAITY to implement Family Wellness in their local parishes.

ONGOING CONNECTION WITH CLERGY “Face to Face”



Currently engaging in Video Conference meetings with Clergy



WE ARE Working to EXPAND our Speakers Team offering a multitude of Family Wellness Workshops throughout the Metropolis.

EVENTS Check out our EVENTS PAGE to see all of our outreach retreats and workshops: h ttp://www .fami ly we ll ne ssmi ni stry .org/e ve n ts-2 01 8 -1 9/

TOGETHER We S H I N E Brighter

“Every Good and Perfect Gift Comes from Above, Coming down from the Father of Lights.” St. James 1:17





Don’t miss our

Family Wellness Ministry FDF WORKSHOPS

“face to face



heart to heart”



“Boundaries & Relationships” with GEORGE PAPAGEORGE Insights into why relationships succeed or fail. This workshop will explore foundational principles that are essential for having healthy and high functioning relationships.

IAGE MARR

Finding God

Victorious Secrets:

YO U AD NG ULT S

Ge orge Papageor ge M.A., L.M.F.T. Fa mily W elln es s M in ist ry D ire ctor



It's Matter of Perspective!

with FR. JIM AND PRES. DONNA PAPPAS Many of us enter marriage envisioning what our life together will be, but sometimes, the reality doesn't measure up to the dream. This workshop will provide san opportunity to see our marriage from a fresh viewpoint. ES P

When Everyth ing Falls Apart

ECIA

FO LLY With PRESVYTERA DONNA PAPPAS W O R ME N Ever found yourself "stuck" and feeling alone? This workshop is designed specifically for women who find themselves at a crossroads and wondering how to find peace in the middle of it all.

FAMILY FUN

Arts & Crafts for the entire family!

With TH E PAPPAS’









Pre svyt er a D onn a Pappas & Fr . Jim Pa ppas W elln es s Min istr y

Fa mily

1 , 1

6

0 Fa ce boo k Fo ll owe rs Check out our Conference Testim onial Video: https://www.facebook.com /fam ilywellnessm inistry/videos/1588649111177250/

Rea

ch 20.6 i n g K J

Expanding Our Website and Social Media Outreach www.familywellnessministry.org



anF 201 eb 9

Like us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/familywellnessministry Our Facebook presence continues to grow at astounding rates. We post interesting articles, resources and daily messages for over 1,160 followers. http://www.familywellnessministry.org/socialmedia/

Our Website provides insightful articles and many resources with ideas to implement Family Wellness Ministry in your parish http://www.familywellnessministry.org/resources/

In 2019 we are developing our website

WRITING TEAM

and welcome input.

Resources for Great Lent lead by our PARENT TEAM • “Shining Brighter” during Great Lent: http://www.familywellnessministry.org/lent/ • Weekly Bulletin Handouts http://www.familywellnessministry.org/weekly-handouts/ • Special Programs designed especially for families ~ building connections in parish communities • “Love at Lent” daily engagement for small children by Presvytera Michelle Triant • “Lenten God parent Program” and countless ideas and links for Orthodox families

Young Adult Ministry Collaboration Team Our Family Wellness ministry is actively engaging with and providing a vital resource to young adults. George Papageorge is collaborating with YAL groups from Holy Trinity (San Francisco) and Resurrection (Castro Valley) discussing relevant topics and curriculums that cultivate healthy Orthodox responses to modern day challenges. These groups are acting as “pilot programs” for Young Adult Ministry throughout the Metropolis. Our Family Wellness Team is committed to ministering to Young Adults through involvement in retreats, camping programs, and conferences. We are excited to help launch the upcoming YAL Conference in Long Beach, Labor Day Weekend 2019.

“Face to Face ~ Heart to Heart”

Establishing Men’s Group Ministry We will support and provide consultation and resources for Small Group Men’s Ministry groups.

Divorce Care: Establish and implement Divorce Care curriculum and small group training for any parish wishing to offer a divorce recovery ministry to their community Click on our DivorceCare YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/oC60fkU-PTs Joe Borgonia, our Family Wellness Ministry Divorce Care Coordinator shares about a program that helps people reclaim their lives after divorce.

Continued Support for Clergy Wellness

CLERGY CARE is a high priority for His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos and our Family Wellness leaders. Our skilled team of priests and family therapists are on call 24/7 and available to help any clergy who are experiencing marital struggles, addiction, trauma, parish related stress, or clergy couples in crisis. Please contact our director, George Papageorge to seek help if you are in need (415.660.6653)

CLERGY KOINONIA In 2019, we are encouraging and supporting Metropolitan Gerasimos’ vision for “Clergy Koinonia” ~ Regional clergy support groups that meet once a month for peer support with the opportunity to foster closer relationships “Face to Face ~ Heart to Heart”

PREZ TO PREZ

Our Family Wellness Ministry presvyteres (Pres. Pat Tsagalakis, Pres. Donna Pappas, and Pres. Joy Corona) share “Prez to Prez” an outreach email ministry uniting, encouraging and supporting presvyteres throughout the United States. http://nsp.goarch.org/about_us/prez_to_prez/ Please see our latest video from the Sisterhood of Presvyteres Retreat. https://youtu.be/OoKDyDU2RoY Information about our 2019 Fall Clergy Couples Retreat will be announced soon! (Please encourage your priest and presvytera to attend)

Family Wellness Ministry Mission Statement:

“Connecting individuals, couples, families and clergy through the heart toward healthy Christ-centered relationships” “Face to Face ~ Heart to Heart”

www.familywellnessministry.org Clergy Laity 2019 Report Submitted by: Your Family Wellness Executive Team George Papageorge M.F.T. - Program Director

[email protected]

415.660.6653

Presvytera Pat Tsagalakis - Assistant Program Director

[email protected]

206.380.1862

Presvytera Donna Pappas Fr. James Pappas, M.Div., Fr. Tom Tsagalakis, M.Div., M.F.T. Joe Borgonia M.F.T.

Metropolis Greek Language and Culture Ministry Katerina Iconomou, MBA-MPA - Chair [email protected] 503-997-5459

The Greek Language and Culture Ministry started with new leadership and direction on February 12, 2019. It is being led by Katerina Iconomou, who was recently appointed by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos as the chair of this ministry. Below is a list of the leadership of this ministry and their excellent credentials Katerina Iconomou – Ministry Chair, was born and raised in Greece. She came in the United States for her undergraduate and graduate studies. She has been married for over 25 year and has 14 year-old twins, Alexander and Zoey. Her first encounter with our Metropolis started almost ten years ago when she first became involved with Our Greek Village Summer Camp. She has been the program’s Executive Director for the past five years. Katerina and her team have grown the Greek Village from 30 campers to almost 100, with a solid waiting list, attracting youth from all over the country. She has also been involved as the volunteer Director of Greek School at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Portland, OR for the past eight years. Promoting Greek Language and Culture is a family affair as both of her children are teaching at the Portland Greek School and are deeply involved with Our Greek Village. Katerina feels very fortunate and blessed to have such a loyal team and together they strive for excellence in preserving our Greek Heritage in all forms. Anastassia Tzoytzoyrakos, a full-time faculty with the American Language Institute at the University of Southern California. She is also the Director of St. Basil Greek School in San Juan Capistrano. Because of her interest in classical education, she co-founded a youth theater that has been active for ten years, and two K-12 private classical schools in California. Anastassia received her M.A. in Applied Linguistics from Biola University, and her B.A. in Economics from University of California, Irvine. Dr. Elias Petrou, a Research Associate Specialist at the project Thesaurus Linguae Graecae at the University of California, Irvine. He completed his Ph.D. in Byzantine History focusing on Greek Education in the medieval times. He received his M.A. from Royal HollowayUniversity of London. Prior to his appointment, Elias worked as associate researcher at the Institute for Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies at the University of Vienna, Austria. Evi Miaouli who received her BA in Preschool Education from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She was a Kindergarten teacher in Greece. In the U.S. she taught Greek at St. Basil Greek School in San Juan Capistrano for 3 years and at Our Greek Village Immersion Camp. She is currently pursuing her MBA degree. *********** The Greek Language and Culture Ministry had a strong presence at the 2019 FDF in Ontario where we held a workshop titled «Oἴκαδε» : Making our home the center of Greek instruction and learning. In this workshop, the presenters shared helpful tips to use at home with the kids to assist them with the learning of the Greek language. They also shared resources that parents can

use to make the learning experience more fun and effective. The new logo for this ministry was also unveiled at FDF and a one-page ad featured the important resources we offer. The short and long term goals of this ministry are as follows: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

to create a website. to update our master contact list of schools and directors in the Metropolis. to collect best practices from successful Greek Schools in Metropolis and to share these with our schools. to create a recommended model for Greek School and be able to offer this models to our Greek Schools that turn to us for assistance. to assist a parish that wishes to start a Greek school. to recommend resources. to hold a workshop in October 2019 for Greek school directors and teachers, offering training and sharing of best practices. to survey our Greek Schools and see what their needs are. to organize educational seminars and workshops for the Greek School teachers. to organize educational and cultural events for the Metropolis such as the observance of Greek Independence Day on March 25 and the Three Hierarchs contest. to assist Greek Schools in becoming Testing Centers. to offer Certification In the Greek Language from the Greek Department of Education. Recognition-certification (accreditation) of evening schools from the Education Council of America (Board of Education)

We extend our gratitude to Dr. Alexandros Kokkinidis for his work with the Hellenic Education and Culture Committee over the past several years. We appreciate his devotion to this ministry. We look to building upon his work in support of Greek language and culture programs throughout our Metropolis.

Celebrating our 10th anniversary!

As the Chairman of the Ελληνικό Χωριό [Our Greek Village Camp] Committee, I am pleased to report that our Village is thriving. Founded in 2009, under the inspiration and guidance of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, we have grown from a small group of 25 campers to over 100 campers and 40 staff members including Greek teachers, doctors, nurses, priests, counselors and volunteers. Campers aged 8-15 travel from the entire Western Diocese including Hawaii and Alaska. In the last few years, we have started drawing from other Dioceses including the states of Illinois, Maryland, Washington DC, Massachusetts and Texas to attend our one-week Greek Cultural and Language Immersion Summer camp. Led by a group of highly qualified Greek Language Instructors throughout our Metropolis, the Ελληνικό Χωριό provides a unique opportunity to experience the Greek village life and ignite the spark of Hellenism in our Orthodox youth. We welcome kids of all heritages and faiths to our Village! Sincerely, Bettina Polydor Kallins Chairman of Our Greek Village Committee Founding Family

ΝΕΑ ΤΟΥ ΧΩΡΙΟΥ Our Village News

“I just want to thank you all for the extremely wonderful job you did on the Greek Immersion camp this year. Ioanna had such a great time and will definitely be returning next year. We are beyond impressed with the program and Ioanna wishes it were for 2 weeks instead of one!

Vana Gergiannakis Parent

St. Nicholas Ranch, Dunlap California June 16-23rd, 2018 www.ourgreekvillage.org Our motto is “ It takes a village to make To ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟ ΧΩΡΙΟ.” We are grateful to our supporters who include representatives of the Youth Metropolis Office, HECC, St. Nicholas Ranch and our committee members below who come from many different parishes: Georgia Covell: Committee Treasurer, [St. George, Downey, CA] Rula Eliopulos: Committee Secretary, [St. Nicholas, Northridge, CA] Katerina Iconomou – Camp Executive Director [Holy Trinity, Portland, Oregon] Bettina Polydor Kallins: Chairman, Greek Village Committee [Assumption, Long Beach & St. Basil San Juan Capistrano, CA] Barbara Kallins Matty: Legal Counsel and Special Projects [Assumption, Long Beach CA] Fr. Demosthenes Paraskevaides: Priest of Greek Village [Proistamenos St. Nicholas, San Jose, CA] Tessy Tzoytzoyrakos: Greek Village Camp Education [St.Basil, San Juan Capistrano, CA] Each year we pick a new theme and create a curriculum that immerses our campers in the dance, music, food, art, history, astronomy and mythology of a region of Greece. All while incorporating fun camp and outdoor activities. This past year our Greek Village Committee selected “Pame Dodekanisa”. Next summer our theme will be “Pame Athena!” Working with our teachers, we create a workbook that unifies the curriculum for each camper. Our plan is to copyright the workbook each year and offer it as a resource to other camps and Greek schools throughout the US. Thanks to the marketing efforts of our team, our camp for 2018 sold out. Katerina Iconomou and our team did a tremendous job of recruiting campers, counselors and teachers especially at our Ελληνικό Χωριό booth at FDF this year. We are planning a similar effort at FDF in 2019.

Fiscally, we are proud to report that through prudent growth and financial management, our camp fees offset most of our operating costs. However, we still rely on countless volunteer hours and contributions from the community, the Metropolis and other Hellenic organizations for camper scholarships, stipends to attract the most qualified staff and other enrichment activities unique to our program. A growing urgency has become the capital repairs to St. Nicholas Ranch. If we are to take up Metropolitan Gerasimos’ challenge to expand the camp into multiple weeks that serves hundreds more children, the limitations of the St. Nicholas Ranch facilities must be addressed. Our Greek Village committee is available to discuss in more detail. We are also planning to launch a campaign to start an endowment this year for our 10th anniversary! We welcome you to visit us this summer and be transported to Ελληνικό Χωριό in Athens Past and Present from June 15-22nd, 2019!

Missions & Evangelism Ministry Report Metropolis Council Meeting – March 3, 2019 Submitted by Director Thomaida Hudanish [email protected], 503-277-3928 Our Mission is to educate, equip, and engage the clergy and faithful in Evangelism and Mission in the Orthodox Christian Tradition. Growing Orthodoxy in America www.GrowOrthodoxy.org • At our Annual Planning Meeting - in September 2018, the team revisited our goals and discussed new projects for the coming year. One of the things that we are considering is the potential to offer sizeable grants from the Sts. George & Katherine Endowment to help active and engaged communities to reach milestones that they would be unable to reach on their own, such as purchase land and/or subsidize the assignment of a priest for up to three years. • Communications – We were able to bring a dedicated person into the role of website and social media management in October 2018. We have further developed our Ministry blog and increased social media activity. The Ministry website is undergoing major revision and reorganization. • We Read Together May 2019 – We plan to offer an online book study again this May with the goal of increased participation from the previous year. • Missions Possible 2019 – Twenty-eight parishes raised $30k during the 2018 campaign. 2019 materials were sent to parishes in February. This year those materials include a brief newsletter and instructions for downloading digital images suitable for Instagram and Facebook.

• Collaboration with Archdiocese Department of Stewardship, Outreach & Evangelism –Fr. Jim Kordaris (Director, GOA Stewardship, Outreach & Evangelism), Fr. Luke Veronis (HCHC Missions Institute), Fr. Theodore Dorrance (Metropolis of Denver), Stacey Stathulis (Assistant, GOA Stewardship, Outreach & Evangelism), and Thomaida are working together to plan the second National Missions & Evangelism Conference, which will take place in Columbus, Ohio, February 3-5, 2020. This group is also proposing a series of leadership presentations that they plan to record during the 2019-2020 academic year and distribute. • Clergy-Laity 2019 – The Ministry has actively been planning this year’s Metropolis Clergy Laity Assembly themed “Reclaiming the Great Commission” with presentations by Fr. Evan Armatas. This year we were also able to support the six mission parishes in sending delegates, using Missions Possible funds to subsidize their travel to CLA. • Customized Welcome Materials – Parishes continue to ask for support with their Welcome Ministries. Three parishes have ordered, customized, and printed Welcome Packets designed by the Missions & Evangelism Ministry, along with banners and customized a-frame signs. Three additional parishes have ordered the design package and are in the midst of customization. • MissionInsite Pilot Project - Four parishes with active Missions & Evangelism ministries received demographic reports in 2018 and began discussing implementation of campaigns based on the data. • Parish Visits and Presentations – Ministry Team representatives visited all of the missions this year. Thomaida gave presentations at 5 parishes, at the Clergy Laity Congress in Boston, and with Fr. Photios at FDF.

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Orthodox Parish Leadership “Supporting Parish Health, Growth and Engagement through Leader Development and Parish Planning”

February, 2019 Steve Tibbs 714.345.1803 [email protected]

Orthodox Parish Leadership Ministry - Parish Support

update 2.06.19

Holy Apostles Shoreline, WA

Led development of parish Strategic Plan. Provided change leadership coaching to parish leaders and Fr. Tom Tsagalakis.

St. Barbara’s Santa Barbara, CA

“Flourishing Parish” Presentation; guided development of Mission, Vision & Values and guidelines for annual plan development. Provided leadership and organizational coaching to parish leaders and Fr. Haralambos Fox.

St. Basil Stockton, CA

Led development of parish Strategic Plan. Provided change leadership coaching to parish leaders and Fr. Panagiotis Sotiras.

Sts. Constantine & Helen Launched Strategic Planning process for parish; provided guidance and coaching to Fr. Michael Sitaras & development teams. Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA Sts. Constantine & Helen “Flourishing Parish” presented to parish leaders. Vallejo, CA Provided organization and change leadership coaching to parish leaders and Fr. Nebosja Pantic. St. Demetrios Tucson, AZ

“Flourishing Parish” presented to Fr. Andrew Barakos, parish leaders, and parishioners.

St. George Fresno, CA

“Flourishing Parish” presented to Fr. James Pappas and parish leaders, with special emphasis on preparing a Strategic Plan.

St. George Prescott, AZ

“Flourishing Parish” presented to Fr. Jeffrey Frate, parish leaders and parishioners.

St. Gregory of Nyssa El Cajon, CA

“Flourishing Parish” presentation scheduled for Fr. Simeon Corona and parish leaders on February 23, 2019.

St Haralambos Peoria, AZ

“Flourishing Parish” presented to Fr. Michael Pallad and parish leaders. Parish leaders in discussions regarding next steps.

St. John Anaheim, CA

Overview of Strategic Planning presented to Fr. John Kariotakis & planning leaders.

St. Paul Irvine, CA

Led 3/4 day Parish Council retreat with Fr. Steven Tsichlis. Led development and implementation of two parish Strategic Plans.

St. Prophet Elias San Bernardino, CA

“Flourishing Parish” presented to parish leaders. Facilitated Parish Council ½ day planning retreat. Providing on-going organization and change leadership coaching to parish leaders and Fr. John Alexandres.

Metropolis Family Family Wellness

Provided initial organizational and leadership coaching to Fr. Timothy Pavlatos on Ministry start-up, including Mission & Vision and Website development. Developed guide for initiating Ministries within a parish; Presenter - Family Wellness Seminar.

Church Musicians Metropolis of SF

“Leading Change” presentation, along with organizational and change management coaching, provided to Executive Comm. Moderated Church Musicians “Town Hall” call.

Content Development

Beginning work to determine potential synergies with Missions and Evangelism Ministry as well as work being performed in other Metropolises and Jurisdictions in the areas of Parish Leadership Development and Strategic Planning.

Orthodox Parish Leadership Offerings

“Supporting Parish Health, Growth and Engagement through Leader Development and Parish Planning” Planning Support

Key Audience

Parish Strategic Planning - assist a parish in the development of their Strategic Plan

Clergy, Parish Council & Strategic Planning Team

“Developing the Annual Parish Plan”

Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

“Parish Priorities - an interactive Activity”

Parish Council

“Ministry Insights” - Leadership Assessment

Clergy & PC President

“Parish Council Planning Retreat”

Parish Council

“Flourishing Parish”

1. 2. 3. 4.

“Flourishing Parish” - an Interactive Discussion exploring: Why our Parish Exists Self assessment – are we a “Flourishing Parish”? Vision – what do we want to be? The Path Forward “Why We Worship”

Clergy and Parish Leaders, including Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

Leader Development “Parish Council Orientation”

Parish Council

“Parish Council Effectiveness”

Parish Council

“Managing Change in a Church Setting”

Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

“Launching a Parish Ministry”

Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

Leadership Coaching

Clergy, Parish Council and Ministry Leaders

Metropolis Council and Clergy-Laity Assembly Report - March 2019 “But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” Hebrews 13:16 Your Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, Reverend Fathers, Archon Vice-Chairman Theofanis Economidis, Metropolis Council Members and Clergy-Laity Assembly Delegates,

I am honored to be here with all of you at the Metropolis of San Francisco Clergy-Laity Assembly. It has been a wonderful start to the year, and I am excited for all that Philoptochos will accomplish holding fast to our mission…helping those in need. 2019 is an election year, I hope you will join me in prayer as we seek out those who will move into leadership positions within our Philoptochos Chapters and continue to focus on growing our all-inclusive membership and continued good works through this movement of love.

We ushered in the holiday season as we hosted our annual Light the Path luncheons on November 17, 2018 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Long Beach, CA and on December 1, 2018 at Church of the Holy Cross in Belmont, CA in support of the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund. I am humbled by the incredible teamwork that went into both events and I am ecstatic to report a record fundraising year, with a total of $200,000. Each event was filled with a joyous spirit of fellowship and generosity towards our Seminarians as they continue their blessed journey into service to the church. Members of the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Board will join His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos th on May 18 , 2019 to attend the 2019 Commencement at Hellenic College/Holy Cross to disperse funds raised at these events to our seminarians and students to assist with school loans though the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund. I attended the Kids ‘n’ Cancer- Agape Ball on January 26, 2019 at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Phoenix, AZ. The Arizona Chapters gathered together along with special guests from our Camp Agape family to celebrate the Kids ‘n’ Cancer ministry and raise funds for Camp Agape.

The Agape Celebration of Love will be held at the beautiful Newport Beach Country Club in Newport Beach, California on May 5, 2019! Every year we are continually reminded of the tremendous need for this ministry. Camp Agape provides a place of hope, and joy and the connections to help them through their journeys together. I invite you to open your hearts to these beautiful families and join us for an afternoon filled with inspiration, love, and the chance to meet some of our special Camp Agape guests. All proceeds from the Kids ‘n’ Cancer Agape Celebration of Love go directly to Camp Agape.

We are excited to announce that our families will be “Under the Big Top” at Camp Agape in 2019, where “No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.”- P.T. Barnum The summer of 2018 had us feeling groovy at our 4 camps as our staff and families were Up, Up, and Away to Camp Agape in Mayer, AZ, Portland, OR, Dunlap, CA, and Ramona, CA. It was another unforgettable summer celebrating life and hope with these special families. It is a privilege to work along with the Philoptochos ladies (and men), over 100 volunteers strong, to serve, love and most importantly make a difference! We are truly grateful to everyone who has supported us financially and with faithful prayers, without which this beautiful ministry would not be possible!

I attended FDF, February 14-17, 2019. We welcomed His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, Geron of America. In honor of his 20th Anniversary, the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Board presented him with vestments which he wore on Sunday for Divine Liturgy. The Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Board also joined with the FDF Management Team and volunteers to host the FDF Diakonia Project on February 14th. Appropriately adorned with Valentine’s Day red hair nets, we packaged 43,000 meals in support of Rise Against Hunger. This was a wonderful project that supports multi-generational participation in service, fellowship, and fun. We were heartbroken to hear of the devastation and loss of life and homes and businesses during 2018 when wildfires raged through Northern California. The Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos contributed directly to area Parishes and organizations with the generous support of our Philoptochos Chapters. We are also at the forefront of the Human Trafficking initiative with National Philoptochos to provide information and workshops, with ways to educate and raise funds to help all those that are exploited. This is an extension of our emphasis on Social Services, which starts at the Chapter level reaches to the National and Internationally to help in a way that gives hope and light to those in need.

It is our humble privilege to continue to support the Patriarchate in honor of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew through monetary gifts and our heartfelt prayers.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve this beloved Metropolis of San Francisco. I, and the thousands of women represented through our Philoptochos Chapters are thankful for your support and love, and most of all, your prayers as we continue our good works through Christ. Philoptochos: Philanthropy, Fellowship, and Faith in Action “For with God, nothing is impossible. “ Luke 1:37

With Love in Christ,

Jeannie Ranglas, President Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos

Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos 2019 Calendar Dates • Kids ’n’ Cancer - Agape Celebration of Love Newport Beach Country Club, Newport Beach, CA - May 5, 2019 • HC/HC Commencement - Brookline, MA - May 18, 2019

• Camp Agape - Orme School, Mayer, AZ - June 13-16, 2019

• Camp Agape - Whispering Winds, Julian, CA - June 20-23, 2019 • Camp Agape- Camp Angelos, Portland, OR - August 3-8, 2019 •

Camp Agape- Saint Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, Dunlap, CA- August 8-11, 2019

• Fall Spiritual ConferenceSaint Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, Dunlap, CA - September 20-22, 2019 • Light the Path-SoCal Saint Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, Irvine, CA - November 23, 2019 • Light the Path, Northern California – TBA

• Metropolis Open House - San Francisco, CA - December 14, 2019

SAINT NICHOLAS RANCH AND RETREAT CENTER Executive Director’s Report Submitted by Michael A. Pappas

Operations and Finance We experienced an overall very positive year at Saint Nicholas Ranch during 2018. In addition to several new groups, some of our annual groups saw an increase. Our Elderhostel programs especially grew with most at or near capacity. We did experience several unexpected repairs totaling nearly $30,000. The biggest were the following: The main septic pump for the dorms had to be replaced; the cooling unit for the walk-in refrigerator went out (during one of the hottest days of the year spoiling a large amount of food); one of the air condition units in the boy’s dorm went out; and one of the well pumps had to be replaced. Ranch Staff We have a small but dedicated staff who work at the Ranch. Finding good quality, experienced staff is difficult in our isolated location. There are few to choose from and we do not offer steady year-round employment. It is difficult to convince people from the Valley to drive up to the hills. We are doing our best to encourage our best young staff to stay by offering them as many hours as possible and giving them more responsibility. Most of our employees are hourly wage-earners and their pay has been adjusted to meet the minimum wage increase requirements. Unfortunately, five of our key kitchen and housekeeping staff quit over the past several months. Two moved away from the area and the others left for a variety of personal reasons. We have hired new staff and our working to train them. This has put a lot of strain on the Director, who is now working full time shifts in the kitchen, and our Office Manager who has also stepped up by helping with housekeeping and the kitchen. Facility Repairs and Improvements As the facility ages, we are spending additional funds on repairs. As mentioned above, this year we had some unexpected and costly repairs. We have also been proceeding on the approved repairs for which the board raised the funds.

1

The following repairs and upgrades have been completed: • • • •

The Kitchen/Dining Hall roof was repaired. The Barn roof was repaired. The Wi-Fi system was upgraded. The lighted pathway from the lower facility to the Heritage Center was completed.

The pool will be resurfaced during the winter, a second set of ovens for the kitchen will be installed soon and the girl’s dorm water heater will be replaced. Also, the walk-in freezer has been out for quite some time. The Cretan Association has pledged to replace the cooling unit. Unfortunately, we believe that the freezer box itself must also be replaced. We are currently looking into options. The renovation of the boy’s dorms is continuing by AHEPA. Four dorms have been completed and they are raising the funds for the remainder. No timeline yet on when it will be completed. Staff Houses Both residences – the priest’s and the director’s – are in very bad shape. Both have roof leaks, there is mold in the walls, the foundations continue to settle, and the HVAC systems in both houses are in need of yearly repair. Something does need to be done. It was decided at the last board meeting to demolish the old buildings and replace them with two new houses. The work is scheduled to begin in March and be completed by October. Heritage Center We have begun moving our offices into the Heritage Center. The computer, internet and phone equipment are now fully installed. Once we move to the Heritage Center, our current front office in the upper dorm building will be converted into a meeting room and lounge for our guests. The back office will be converted into a storage room.

Looking forward to the future needs of the Ranch 2

In order for the Ranch to continue to meet the needs of its guests and, indeed, to continue to fulfill its mission, we believe that there are several important items, beyond simple repairs, that should be addressed. We would like to present the following for consideration: 1. Additional lodge rooms are desperately needed. We suggest that for the immediate short term, even 25 lodge rooms, with a self-contained dining room/kitchen for 50 people would meet our current needs. 2. The existing kitchen and dining room do need some small improvements. We have already mentioned the oven and freezer. In addition the floors in the main dining room must be replaced. 3. The Ranch has no storage space. Especially we need additional pantry space and storage for the kitchen. We are suggesting an addition to the back of the dining hall building, large enough to store tables, chairs and other equipment. 4. A large number of mattresses in the dorms must be replaced. We are exploring options. Other things that will eventually need to be addressed include the following: 1. Replace the wood siding throughout the main facility with a long lasting synthetic or concrete material. The wood is rotting in many places and the wood peckers are devastating whole sections of the exterior walls. 2. The sidewalks throughout the facility are cracked and uneven. Twice in the past year, elderly ladies tripped and fell. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries but this must be fixed before someone is seriously injured. 3. The exterior concrete surface around the pool, along with the fence will eventually need to be repaired. This is not an immediate need, but something we must plan for. 4. We would like to install speed bumps along the main road. Speeding traffic is a continuing problem, especially during summer camp season. 5. We are having problems with the beds, especially in the lower lodge building. They squeak badly. We are exploring fixes for the issue. 6. Now that the Heritage Center is complete and being regularly utilized we would like to suggest fixing up the area just above the girl’s dorm, along the road. There was a plan drawn up during the initial planning for the Heritage Center for a fountain, picnic area and pavilion in this space. This is a good 3

time to revisit the idea as it would give a more welcome and pleasing entry into the ranch. 7. We are in consultation with the Monastery to make new road signs for the Ranch and Monastery, especially at the main entrance on Dunlap road. We are trying to decide which are the best options and hope to have something done in the coming months. This year the Ranch is celebrating its 40th Anniversary and I am working with the Ranch Board on an event that will mark this milestone. More details will be forthcoming. As I conclude this report, I would like to thank you for your continued support. Saint Nicholas Ranch is a very important ministry of the Church and it is an honor to be a part of it and to work with all of you.

4

MARCH 4, 2019

METROPOLIS CLERGY LAITY ASSEMBLY 2019

OFFICE OF YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES Connecting College Students with local Orthodox Parishes Thousands of our Orthodox youth graduate from High School every year and go away to schools across our country. The Metropolis Youth Office is helping to connect our college students to local parishes near their schools by contacting the Orthodox Priest nearest their school and informing them that an an Orthodox student from our Metropolis is moving to their area. We are asking to the priest to reach out to our students, and welcome them to their communities. I created both an online and paper form, and emailed all of our Metropolis Clergy the information to distribute to their families. So far I have received 41 responses from families.

Metropolis Young Adult Winter Retreat, Lake Tahoe February 16-19, 2018 This retreat sold out again with 60 participants from throughout the Metropolis and across the Archdiocese, as we celebrated the 12th Annual Young Adult Winter Retreat in Lake Tahoe. The retreat was once again held at the Galilee Retreat and Conference Center in Glenbrook, Nevada. Fr. Jacob Saylor was our speaker, and theme was “Repentance as the Way of Life”. Fr. Chris Retelas was our Retreat Priest.

Bay Area GOYA Lenten Retreat, March 9-11, 2018 Organized by Fr. Tom Felactu from Holy Cross in Belmont, and the Metropolis Youth Office, the theme of the Retreat was “Self-Control”. The retreat began on Friday night with the service of the Salutations to the Theotokos at Holy Cross in Belmont, a dinner and chat with His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos and before the participants continued on to the Retreat Center at the Marin Headlands. We sold out with 60 participants from Holy Cross in Belmont, Resurrection in Castro Valley, St. Basil in Stockton, and Ascension Cathedral in Oakland.

Metropolis Young Adult Spring Retreat, April 27-29, 2018 Organized by the Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, we had about 45 Young Adults in attendance from all over the West Coast and from all Orthodox Jurisdictions attend the Metropolis Young Adult Spring Retreat at St. Nicholas Ranch. The !1

MARCH 4, 2019

METROPOLIS CLERGY LAITY ASSEMBLY 2019

theme of the retreat was “To Walk Worthy of Your Calling” presented by Fr. Tom Zaferes and Fr. Seraphim Ramos. One thing we learned from this retreat is that the date was a bit too late in the spring to get a large crowd. We had to push the date back due to switching the date of the Winter Retreat with FDF, and we didn’t want to have two retreats just a few weeks from each other. We will plan on having the Young Adult Lenten Retreat in March or early April next year.

Metropolis Summer Camp, July 8-28, 2018 We sold out once again with 345 campers by the end of February 2018, and had a long waiting lists through June. We hired a stellar staff, and our veteran campers and staff were extremely impressed with our new additions to the staff this summer! A new activity we added this year was hay rides to the barn and tours led by Michael Pappas. This was a huge hit, and it inspired the campers to want to have a service in the barn next summer during camp. We hope to fix up the barn a bit more in order to do this. As of now, there is no air conditioning in the barn, and temperatures are in the 100’s.

Metropolis Young Adult Camping Trip, Aug 31-Sept 3 This is the second year we have had this ministry, and it was another success! Last year we had 25 participants, and this year we had 35 participants from all over California, and a few drove down from Oregon. We had a private campsite on 500 acres in the mountains of Chico, CA. The young adults learned how to pitch a tent, fish, and we all helped cook the daily meals together. We attended Liturgy on Sunday at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Orthodox Church in Chico, CA, and had a Paraklesis and Akathist of Thanksgiving service together at our campsite.

Metropolis Young Adult Fall Retreat, October 12-14, 2018 Another successful Young Adult Fall Retreat, with about 70 participants from across the Metropolis. Our speaker was George Papageorge, and our theme was “Life-Giving Relationships.” We found that the young adults really enjoyed this topic, and George did a great job setting the scene and leading the discussions. The young adults would like to have George return again as a speaker, and perhaps speak on the topic of boundaries. !2

MARCH 4, 2019

METROPOLIS CLERGY LAITY ASSEMBLY 2019

Bay Area GOYA Lock-In, November16-17, 2018 Hosted by the Church of the Resurrection in Castro Valley, we had yet another successful gathering with about 75 youth from across the Bay Area. The kids enjoyed fellowship, a FOCUS service project to put together hygiene kits for the local homeless, a candlelit Paraklesis service in the Church. This has become a very popular gathering in the Bay Area, and between the Oakland and Castro Valley parishes, they take turns hosting it each year and average about 60-80 youth each time.

Metropolis Young Adult Christmas Reception Dec 14 His Eminence once again graciously opened his home to about 100 Orthodox Young Adults from throughout the Metropolis for a Christmas reception on Friday Dec 14, 2018 from 6pm - 9pm. We also had the young adults bring gift cards from stores like Safeway, Walgreens, and CVS to donate to the homeless of the Annunciation Cathedral’s Soup Kitchen in San Francisco.

Metropolis GOYA Winter Camp, December 27-30 This is the first time we’ve formally offered this event in the last few years, and it was a wonderful group of 31 youth from across our Metropolis. The campers had a blast, and said they really enjoyed the smaller group, compared to summer camp, and liked that they had more access to time with their counselors, myself, and our leadership team running the retreat. We took the kids on a field trip to visit Kings Canyon and go sledding in the snow. We also brought them to visit the Monastery and help with a work project. Our speaker was Steve Christoforou form the Archdiocese, and he spoke on the themes of silence and listening.

Metropolis Young Adult Winter Retreat, Lake Tahoe February 16-19, 2019 This retreat sold out again with 60 participants from throughout the Metropolis and across the Archdiocese, as we celebrated the 13th Annual Young Adult Winter Retreat in Lake Tahoe. Cassandra Garibaldi from the Archdiocese Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries was our speaker, and the theme was “Seek First The Kingdom”. Fr. Pete Sotiras was our Retreat Priest, and it was a huge blessing to have him with us, since he founded this retreat, 13 years ago! Another piece of exciting news is that I got engaged during this retreat! Glory to God for all things! !3

MARCH 4, 2019

METROPOLIS CLERGY LAITY ASSEMBLY 2019

2019 YOUNG ADULT RETREATS Open to all Orthodox Young Adults, ages 18-30’s YOUNG ADULT WINTER RETREAT January 18-21, 2019 President’s Day Weekend - South Lake Tahoe YOUNG ADULT LENTEN RETREAT March 29-31, 2019 St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center YOUNG ADULT SUMMER RETREAT May 2019 Southern California Retreat Center

METROPOLIS YAL CONFERENCE August 29 - September 2, 2019 Labor Day Weekend - Southern CA

YOUNG ADULT CAMPING TRIP Date TBD Near Chico, CA

YOUNG ADULT FALL RETREAT Date TBD St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center

YOUNG ADULT CHRISTMAS RECEPTION December 13, 2019 Metropolis House in San Francisco !4

Metropolis Council Meeting and Clergy-Laity Assembly March 3-6, 2019 Paul Gikas, Director of Ministries and Administration [email protected] Cell: 415-525-6803 The Mission of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and the Metropolis of San Francisco, is to proclaim the Gospel; teach and spread the Orthodox Faith; and energize and cultivate the life of the Metropolis according to the Orthodox Faith and Traditions. One of the ways the Metropolis of San Francisco accomplishes this task is through the work of its Ministries! Metropolis Ministries and Leadership Ministry

Leader

Email

Christian Education

Dr. Eve Tibbs

[email protected]

Church Music Federation

Elizabeth Levy

[email protected]

Clergy Continuing Education

Fr. Steven Tsichlis

[email protected]

Missions & Evangelism Ministry

Thomaida Hudanish

[email protected]

Family Wellness Ministry

George Papageorge

[email protected]

Folk Dance & Choral Festival

Fr. Gary Kyriacou

[email protected]

Greek Village Immersion Camp

Bettina Kallins

[email protected]

Greek Language and Culture

Katerina Iconomou

[email protected]

Orthodox Parish Leadership

Steve Tibbs

[email protected]

Philoptochos

Jeannie Ranglas

Stewardship

Steve Pappas

[email protected] [email protected]

St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center

Michael Pappas

Youth & Young Adult Ministry

Johanna Duterte

[email protected] [email protected]

Some Ministry Developments •

Clergy Continuing Education has developed its new Koinonia Groups for our clergy. All clergy in the Metropolis are divided into small groups and will meet on a monthly basis to discuss subjects pertinent to clergy. Rev. Steven Tsichlis is the new lead for Clergy Continuing Education. Rev. Dino Pappademos will support this ministry.

•

Hellenic Education and Culture – Dr. Alexander Kokkinidis served as the lead for this ministry for over 4 years and wished to step down. The Metropolis thanks Dr. Kokkinidis for his dedicated service. His Eminence has appointed Katerina Iconomou to be the new lead for this ministry, which will now be called Greek Language and Culture. 1

•

Orthodox Leadership Development and Parish Strategic Planning were two ministries that have been led by Steve Tibbs on a volunteer basis. Recognizing the importance of developing parish leadership training and resources, the Metropolis will now utilize the consulting services of Steve Tibbs for one year. These two ministries are being combined into one ministry called Orthodox Parish Leadership.

•

In December of 2018, we asked all Ministry Leaders to submit budgets for 2019 in budget templates provided by George Psefteas, in order to assist George in developing the Metropolis budget for 2019, and also to get our ministry leaders more engaged in the budget process.

•

This year ministry leaders are being asked to submit, in addition to the two reports for the two-yearly Metropolis Council meetings, monthly email updates to me, so that I may share with His Eminence. We will also conduct more video calls between His Eminence and our ministry leaders this year.

Some Administrative Activities • • • • •

• • • • • •

Providing admin support for Office of the Chancellor. Assisting in updating / maintaining Metropolis database. Provided admin support for Metropolis Gala. Assisting a few applicants from Metropolis to HC/HC Providing admin support to Metropolis Allocations Committee. Shopping for office phone and internet service to reduce monthly cost. Installed new driveway at Metropolis House with proper drainage system. Performed some re-landscaping at Metropolis House. (new front lawn, plants, lighting) Fixed a roof leak at Metropolis House and performed roof maintenance. Had a professional evaluation of electrical system at Metropolis House. Will perform some basic electrical safety upgrades. Updated office computers. (new SS hard drives, four new monitors, Windows 10)

2

Development and Communications Report March, 3 – 6, 2019

Submitted by: Kristen Bruskas

Director of Development and Communications My work in the areas of Development and Communications are quite broad and diverse, but it is all vital to promoting and supporting our overall mission as a Metropolis, as well as for the growth of our ministries. It is through our fundraising efforts that we support the growth and development of our ministries. It is through our communications efforts that we reach our parishes, faithful and beyond with our electronic communications, website, promotional materials and social media. Development • Metropolis Gala – worked closely with the 2018 Gala co-chairs Demo and Chrissie Zeppos, and the Gala Committee to plan and implement all aspects of event managements – hotel negotiations, audio visual, décor, registration, set up, video production, sponsorships, etc. I also created a 25-page manual for the planning of a Metropolis Gala which included detailed descriptions for each committee and outlined the scope of their work. • Faith Forward – creating updated marketing materials and launched this effort in November 2018 under the leadership of Isidoros Garifalakis. We raised nearly $220,000 from this effort, and have already started with plans for the 2019 Faith Forward Metropolis stewardship campaign. • I work with the Metropolis Finance Committee on a regular basis to review our financial statements and monitor both income and expenses to help keep our budget in line with projections. • Our Metropolis Database, DonorPerfect, provides the opportunity for us to closely monitor the giving of our faithful, but also maintain accurate records for our Clergy, ministry leadership, Archons, Leadership 100 members, and donors. DonorPerfect also provides a portal for online giving, and manages registration for our Clergy-Laity Assembly. • I am serving on the Advisory Board for the 2019 Young Adult League Conference being hosted by our Metropolis from August 29 – September 2, 2019 in southern California. I have created initial advertising for this event, an online application for Steering Committee members, and will be working to support the planning efforts over the next several months. • This year we are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Saint Nicholas Ranch, I am assisting the committee with the planning of an event to appropriately commemorate this milestone.

Communications • The integration of Constant Contact for our electronic messages has afforded us the opportunity to create more visually appealing e-newsletters which are distributed monthly to over 5,000 people. • We are also fortunate to have regular coverage of our events, programs and ministries in the Orthodox Observer and The Hellenic Journal. • Our official Metropolis Facebook page has nearly 1,800 “follows and likes”, and offers another way to highlight communication about our Metropolis – news stories, ministries, events and more. • We have an excellent Metropolis website and I work hard to develop the content to keep the information current and engaging for our faithful. • We will be launching a Ministry Spotlight this spring through our e-news which will highlight the work of one ministry each month to better educate our faithful as to the variety of programs and resources that are offered by the Metropolis. • I produced a new video, Celebrating our Ministries, which provides an overview of our ministries and shares the breadth and depth of our geography and ministries. • I am assisting the Marketing and Communications Committee for Saint Nicholas Ranch as they work on a more robust plan to promote the Ranch. Other Projects • I have been serving as the VIP and Hospitality coordinator for FDF for the past ten years, planning special events and meals for visiting hierarchs and dignitaries, preparing hospitality amenities for special guests and judges, coordinating honorees, supporting the logistical needs for Metropolitan Gerasimos and any other visiting Hierarchs and dignitaries. • I also worked closely with Archon Isidoros Garifalakis on the raising of funds for a special event – An Evening of Gratitude – at which we honored His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios at FDF 2019 on his 20th year as Archbishop of America. Over $38,000 was raised in less than two weeks to underwrite this event and provide for a gift for the Archbishop. • I am coordinating the reception and fundraiser following Pan-Orthodox Vespers on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at the Assumption Church in Long Beach. This event will raise funds for the Theotokos Girls and Boys Orphanage in Bakeswar, India which is lovingly led by Sister Nectaria. • I provide a variety of administrative support to His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, the Metropolis Office, and to our ministries. • I am responsible for planning the annual Clergy-Laity Assembly, coordinating meetings of the Metropolis Council and Saint Nicholas Ranch Board, and take minutes at all their meetings.

Thank you for this opportunity serve our Metropolis. Please feel free to contact me if there is anything I can do to assist you ([email protected], 602-525-3488.).