What is it? How do I get involved? Why would I want to?
Philoptochos (pronounced: phil-OP-toe-kose) means “Friends of the poor”. While its mission is to help the poor, destitute, hungry, sick, aged and anyone in need of assistance outside the Church, we are also called to promote participation in the activities of the Greek Orthodox community.
A wonderful advantage of belonging to Philoptochos is that membership allows us all to connect with one another. By working together on the various ministries of the church, we get to know each other and do what we are called to do and that is to love and support one another.
The ministries of Sts. Mary & Martha Philoptochos include: Comforters, Hospitality, Almsgiving, Art, Membership, Prayer and Study. When you see the acronym CHAAMPS you are called to remember the lives of those in need, as well as a commitment to Christ to build a strong relationship with Him and other women in our community.
Your once-a-year financial commitment not only helps support our local Philoptochos, but the ministries of the Metropolitan Philoptochos and the National Philoptochos. A one-time per year minimum offering is $40. A small portion of the $40.00 goes to National Philoptochos, our own Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos and the remainder to our own chapter, Sts. Mary & Martha, all of which is ultimately for our commitment and obligation to Christ. The goal of our chapter is to make ongoing decisions to spend our money for the good and to never carry a large balance. In other words, all of the monies collected by Sts. Mary & Martha Philoptochos are distributed to fulfi ll our mission to help those in need.
The following are some examples of how Sts. Mary & Martha Philoptochos will serve: Parish Service Day, Hospitality Events (i.e. Lazarus Saturday, Palm Sunday, Pascha Picnic), the Holy Friday Youth Retreat, GOYA Service Day, the St. Justin Book Drive for college students, St. Cecilia’s Children Fund, Mochas 4 Missions, Pentecost special snack hour, retreat to the Monastery, Beautification of the Church for fall and Christmas, Camp Agape, Pregnancy Resource Center, Beaverton Food Drive, Tasso the Turkey, Benevolence Christmas Cards, Grab & Give Bags, Food Pantry-Meadow Park, and the Fall Women’s Retreat. We also hope to have a few recreational activities such as the Sts. Mary & Martha Camping trip and other outdoor activities.
Join us to help determine your personal role in serving God and humanity! Membership Committee members are available to help clarify the mission of Philoptochos and answer any questions you may have: Eleni G, Chapter President; Sandy D-P, Vice President; Colleen V-S, Treasurer; Nika B, Secretary Patrice K, Membership; Presvytera Stacey, Communication.
